The weather is turning nice, and the desire to renew some outdoor skills is calling. When you answer it, be sure you’re ready with all the required gear. From knives and camp tools to first aid and fire-starters, make sure your gear bags are refreshed and stocked with all your favorite much-needed necessities.
Spring allows you to forage for greens, trek through the brush, or hunt and fish in the nearby woods and watering holes. But, whatever your activity is while in nature’s backyard, be sure you’re prepared for not only what you plan to do, but also for any unexpected challenges or unforeseen accidents that might occur while you’re in the great outdoors.
Tentsile Stealth Tree Tent
Overview
Adventure goes to the trees with the new Stealth Tree Tent. Three separate entrances allow each occupant their own space. A central tower shelf stows gear, while the no-see-um mesh keeps annoying insect outs and fresh air flowing through. Fully rainproof, UV-resistant and reinforced with a trillium fabric floor, this tree tent is as durable as it is beautiful. Further personalize the interior with “under the floor” straps to combine or further separate the three interior hammocks. An included stuff sack allows easy storage and transport.
Specifications
- Fully insect-proof interior
- Removable roof for unobstructed overhead view
- Holds three adults, plus gear
- Four-season use
- Maximum weight load: 880 pounds
MSRP $750
URL www.Tentsile.com
Garmin inReach SE+Satellite Communicator
Overview
Never again be limited during exploration or extreme adventures when you have the Garmin inReach SE+ firmly within your grasp. Sporting a compact, durable shell and the most innovative satellite technology inside, this amazing unit assures you will always be in contact with loved ones and rescuers at the touch of just a few buttons. It provides communication, location-sharing, navigation—and, most importantly, SOS capabilities. For use on land, in the skies or on the water … literally anywhere you go in the world!
Specifications
- 1.4×1.9-inch transflective color display
- Two-way text messaging from anywhere
- Instant interactive SOS trigger connects to 24/7 rescue monitoring center
- Pairs with compatible mobile devices
- Built-in digital compass, barometric altimeter and accelerometer
- Track and share your location
- Includes rechargeable lithium-ion battery
MSRP $399.99
URL www.Garmin.com
Major Surplus Combination Survival Rig
Overview
Useful for a weekend camping trip or surviving an unexpected emergency, this combination pack and gear features everything you need to be self-sufficient during any situation. Sporting top-quality gear—including kitchen utensils, fire-starting items, compass, flashlight, first aid kit, complete sleeping system and much more—you have what you need when nature or man throws their worst at you. The multi-compartment pack easily stores everything for fast and convenient access.
Specifications
- 16×8.5×28-inch Everest backpack is “guaranteed for life”
- Kit addresses fire, shelter, first aid and many other necessities for one person
- Includes three-season, double-layer sleeping system
- Total weight: 24.45 pounds
- Component value is $316 if bought separately
MSRP $179.95
URL www.MajorSurplus.com
Enlarged 3-Way Deployment Bag
Overview
Transport and organize more gear with this spacious and extremely durable deployment bag. Equipped with a sewn web carry handle, removable, adjustable nylon shoulder strap and heavy-duty military-style nylon coil zippers, this bag will take everything you can throw at it, and it’ll come back for more. Two side zipper pockets and front divider pockets keep all your gear separated and organized for easy and fast access.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 17x5x11 inches
- PALS webbing attachment points
- Integrated rear MOLLE straps
- Red bag is ideally suited for a medical kit
- Main compartment capacity: 11 liters
- Weight: 1.6 pounds
MSRP $37.95
URL www.MajorSurplus.com
SOL Pocket Survival Pak Plus
Overview
Stuffed to the brim with the best and most essential gear, this pack can be carried conveniently in your pocket or supply bag and addresses nearly all aspects of survival. From a razor-sharp fixed-blade knife to water purification tablets, fire-striker and an LED micro-light, this kit really does cover it all. It is perfect for adding to your vehicle kit and for camping, hiking, use by seasoned outdoorsmen or anyone venturing into unknown territory. Equip every member of your group with this pack for peace of mind when things go bad.
Specifications
- Includes nearly 40 useful components
- Resealable waterproof pouch
- Dimensions: 5x5x4.5 inches
- Weight: 7.3 ounces
- Waterproof survival instructions
- One-person multiple-day pack
MSRP $80
URL www.SurviveOutdoorsLonger.com
SOL Traverse Survival Kit
Overview
The Traverse Survival Kit is so small, you’ll forget you have it. But when things go bad, you’ll be glad you do. Equipped to cover the core-four of survival (water, fire, shelter and signaling), this kit will help to keep you alive until rescuers arrive or you find your way home. Create a fire with ease utilizing a 5,000-spark striker; keep yourself warm with a reflective emergency blanket; and increase your chances of rescue by blasting a 100 dB mini-signal whistle across the landscape. The Traverse Survival Kit is the perfect mini-kit for just about everyone.
Specifications
- Components for fire, water, shelter and signaling
- Includes survival instructions
- Lightweight, durable, two-piece tin
- One-person multiple-day kit
- Dimensions: 6.25x4x1.5 inches
- Weight: 6.1 ounces
MSRP $20
URL www.SurviveOutdoorsLonger.com
Easy Care First Aid Kit
Overview
Sometimes, simpler is better, and, with the Easy Care First Aid Kit, dressing a skinned knee or removing a stinging splinter has never been easier. Covering the basics of first aid, you’ll have everything you need at your disposal to handle a weekend camping trip or a day at the local park. Included in this kit are bandages of all sizes, antiseptic wipes and ointments, insect relief pads, tweezers, wound closures, pain medicine and much more. This kit is useful for the entire family.
Specifications
- Lightweight and durable carry bag
- More than 50 useful items
- Easy-to-use, injury-specific pouches
- Perfect for outdoor activities
MSRP $6.99
URL www.EasyCareFirstAid.com
Patterned Thread Protectors
Overview
Thread protection with an amazing customized look—how can you go wrong? With dozens of styles and colors to choose from, you can protect the threads on your sidearms and rifles with unique, firearm-grade protectors. Choose from interesting patterns such as Celtic knot, Semper Fi, Lonestar, flag, honeycomb, revolver, skull and more in silver, flat dark earth, OD green and black finishes. All protectors are made in the U.S.A.
Specifications
- Constructed from the strongest firearms-grade aluminum alloy
- Lightweight to keep overall pistol weight down
- Machined using the latest CNC machines and techniques
- All pistol thread protectors are 0.4 inch long and 0.5 inch in diameter
- All rifle thread protectors are 0.7 inch long and .73 inch in diameter
MSRP $29.99
URL www.GunGoddess.com
The Work Sharp Knife & Tool Sharpener
Overview
Designed to sharpen nearly every kind of knife you own, this mechanical wonder will bring a sharp edge within minutes to your dull knives, tools and scissors. Utilizing sharpening guides and flexible abrasive belts, you’ll sharpen like the professionals when it’s most convenient for you. Use it for all your knives, axes, hatchets, lawn mower blades and even simple tools such as your garden shovels and pruning shears.
Specifications
- Coarse, medium and fine abrasive belt options
- Comes fully assembled and quality tested
- Full, one-year warranty
- Detailed user guide and instructional DVD
- Two sharpening guides included
MSRP $89.95
URL www.WorkSharpTools.com
Outdoor Edge Aero-Strike Throwers
Overview
A literal triple threat! This assortment of throwers—tanto, Bowie and spear-tipped dagger—are expertly designed to produce a balanced throw and pinpoint accuracy. Outdoor Edge partnered with world-renowned thrower Bobby Branton to produce this first-ever line of high-quality throwers. Amateurs and professional knife throwers, alike, will spend countless hours enjoying this amazing trio.
Specifications
- Constructed from 420J2 stainless steel
- Equally weighted and balanced
- Length: 10.5 inches
- Handles have holes for attaching lanyards or paracord
- The black nylon sheath holds all three knives
MSRP $59.95
URL www.OutdoorEdge.com
Creek Stewart Foraging Knife
Overview
Don’t sacrifice your valuable knife by digging into the dirt and muck to forage for wild edibles. This tool will do that—and a whole lot more. These tools are built to pry, chop, cut and tear through vines, weeds and layers of dirt to reach all the tasty treats Mother Nature offers. This foraging tool is part knife, part shovel, part measuring tool; all useful for any outdoor excursion. It comes complete with a leather sheath and a lanyard hole for easy paracord attachment.
Specifications
- Overall length: 12 inches
- Blade length: 7 inches
- Stainless steel blade with a full tang
- Hardwood handle scales
- Integrated measuring guide imprinted in the blade
MSRP $36.99
URL www.CreekStewart.com
SOG Jungle Primitive Knife
Overview
The SOG Jungle Primitive Knife is a combo knife and machete. It puts power and versatility within your grasp. Constructed of hardened steel and a molded Kraton handle, this knife packs a powerful punch when chopping through brush or carving wood into useful tools. Its sawtooth spine allows you to saw through small limbs, while its nylon sheath keeps this handy tool always nearby. The Kraton handle has a Digi-Grip texture and an integrated lanyard hole.
Specifications
- Blade length: 9.5 inches
- Overall length: 15.3 inches
- Blade: 8CR13MOV hardened to RC 56–58
- Weight with sheath: 14 ounces
- Reinforced ballistic nylon sheath
- Full tang with jimped striking surface
MSRP $65
URL www.SOGKnives.com
Natrapel 12-Hour Insect Repellent Wipes
Overview
Protecting yourself from the tiny nasties out in the woods has never been easier. Just apply the highly effective, non-DEET formula on your skin for an instant barrier against biting insects. Proven in independent clinical tests to outperform its DEET counterpart, this easy-to-apply solution is safe on skin, as well as on your gear and equipment. These wipes are great additions to your must-have necessity bag for every member of your family.
Specifications
- DEET-free repellent
- Up to 12 hours of protection
- 20 percent Picaridin formula
- Easy-to-apply wipes
- Completely safe on gear, jackets or any synthetic material
MSRP $6.99
URL www.Natrapel.com
Wazoo Adventure 23 Tool Survivor Kit
Overview
For use with the Wazoo Cache Belt or on its own, this comprehensive mini-survival kit offers you nearly two dozen emergency tools and gadgets to help you get out of trouble fast. From fire-starting gear to a flashlight, cordage and fishing gear, this assembly of goods is so compact, it will fit into your pocket or backpack with ease. It is specifically designed for everyday wear, whether you’re adventuring in the deep woods or exploring in the urban jungle.
Specifications
- Compact and easy to store
- Basic essentials for most survival situations
- Tested for quality
- Kit works in conjunction with the Wazoo Cache Belt
- Made in the U.S.A.
MSRP Not available at press time
URL www.WazooSurvivalGear.com
Creek Stewart Whiskey 646 Axe
Overview
Created from carbon steel with a handle crafted from upcycled white oak whiskey barrels, this all-around camp axe is perfect for everything from splitting kindling to chopping down thick saplings. Beautifully crafted with old-world style and craftsmanship, this axe will become a trusted wingman around your camp. The 646 Axe comes complete with a leather Grunt sheath and black Kydex sheath, both strung with paracord lacing.
Specifications
- Overall length: 10.25 inches
- Blade length: 3.75 inches
- Weight: 15 ounces
- Steel is A36 CARB with the edge hardened to RD 58–59
- Full tang with ferro rod notch on the head
- Hand forged in Kentucky, U.S.A.
MSRP $85
URL www.CreekStewart.com
Coghlans Multi-Spice Assortment
Overview
Spice up your hunting or fishing catch with a variety of the most popular seasonings. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, curry, garlic salt, paprika or cayenne pepper to turn bland foods exciting to eat for all members of your family. Its convenient shaker top allows just the right amount to be dispensed.
Specifications
- Flip-top shaker
- Six different varieties
- Compact, easily storable unit
- Durable plastic holder
- Long shelf life
MSRP $6.99
URL www.Coghlans.com
Outdoor Edge ChowPal Multi-function Eating Utensils
Overview
Innovation has come to simple eating utensils! This new, all-in-one set combines high-quality utensils with a useful multi-tool assortment. Eat in style with a fork, knife and two different-sized spoons. Then, use the integrated single-bevel knife, graduated wrench, can opener, bottle opener and screwdriver. When your meal or your repair job is over, store this convenient set within its carrying pouch. It’s time to take some basics to the next level!
Specifications
- Crafted from 420J2 stainless steel
- Lightweight and durable
- Only 6.5 inches long
- Weight: 2.4 ounces
- Includes easy-to-find orange nylon carry pouch
MSRP $27.50
URL www.OutdoorEdge.com
Ben’s Clothing & Gear Insect Repellent
Overview
Add another layer of protection against biting insects by protecting your clothing and gear. This formula kills on contact if mosquitos, flies, ticks or other pests venture onto your bedding or other gear and kills them long before they reach your tender skin. The easy-to-use, ergonomic-grip bottle makes spraying all your and your family’s fabrics a fast and easy process when out in the deep woods or your own backyard. This repellent is a must-have for anyone venturing outdoors.
Specifications
- 0.5 percent Permethrin formula
- Formula bonds with fabric fibers
- Protects against mosquitos, flies and ticks
- Lasts up to six weeks or six wash cycles
- Large, 24-ounce bottle
MSRP $16
URL www.Bens30.com
Wazoo Bushcraft Bracelet
Overview
Designed with rugged form using natural leather and featuring a fully functional firesteel toggle, this bracelet provides the ability to produce fire whenever you need it. It is perfect for men and women of all ages.
Specifications
- Naturally dyed, brown leather cordage
- Leather is free of carcinogenic/hazardous chemicals
- Each bracelet is custom made to order
- Lifetime warranty
MSRP $25
URL www.WazooSurvivalGear.com
Crystal Sparkle Earmuffs and Glasses
Overview
With your choice of either passive or electronic models, you can now combine safety and protection with the unique style provided by the fine Czech crystals that adorn these shooting essentials. Designed with both comfort and effective protection in mind, these ear muffs have a noise-reduction rating of NRR 24dB and sport a padded headband and soft ear cushions for all-day shooting. Clear lens, 3M-brand safety glasses with crystals that match your selected earmuff’s style and hard-shell padded case are included.
Specifications
- Sleek, ultra-slim ear cup design does not interfere with the firearm stock
- Weighs under 1 pound
- Compact, fold-down design for easy storage
- 5x hearing enhancement on electronic models
- Anti-microbial ear pads
- Electronic muffs powered by two AAA batteries
MSRP Starting at $185
Ultimate Jerky Cutting Board
Overview
Making jerky to extend your protein supply is a whole lot easier with the Ultimate Jerky Cutting Board. This durable, polypropylene board features both a ¼-inch and ⅜-inch depth that offer you two slicing options, while its integrated ridges trap excess liquids for easy disposal. The textured surface on the ridges grip the meat while tenderizing, allowing seasonings to penetrate deeply. This cutting board is dishwasher safe and is made in the U.S.A.
Specifications
- Textured hand protector
- Includes 13.5-inch, high-carbon 420 stainless steel knife
- Knife nests inside unit for safe and easy storage
- Integrated carrying handle
- Nonslip rubber feet offer superior stability
MSRP $29.99
URL www.HiMtnJerky.com
Editor’s note: A version of this article first appeared in the April, 2018 print issue of American Survival Guide.
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