Kali's EDC/BoB

[kaligaran]

Hello ZS'ers.

I started making my kits about 3 years ago so I'm sure many of you have been doing this longer than me. I have learned so much from feedback that others have received on their kit(s) that I wanted to post mine up.

Open to constructive criticism/feedback from you all. Thank you in advance.

Note: I don't have a postage scale so many of the weights are either from the manufacturer or done on a crappy bathroom scale. Sorry for the poor formatting, the lists didn't copy from my spreadsheet well.

Including the camping loadout at the end b/c after taking my BoB out for a spin, I learned a few harsh lessons. More details at the camping gear section.

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EDC on-person daily: 173.8oz = 10.86 pounds

Clothing 80oz - estimate: jeans, belt, hoodie or jacket, t-shirt, undies
phone/wallet/keys 14oz
Kershaw Brawler 3.8oz
PT709 slim with IWB holster 28oz - when not at work
Danner Striker II GTX boots 48oz
Paracord bracelet

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EDC/GHB/E&E pack 238oz = 14.88 pounds
EDC has redundancy with my BoB. It's also intended to clip onto the BoB to be used as an E&E or around camp bag.


Maxpedition Kodiak Gearslinger 45oz
bungee cords - used mostly when on my motorcycle
4Sevens AA^2 2.2oz
Gerber multi-tool 8.9oz
Edible Plants book 16oz - trying to learn the edibles in my new AO
3 extra mags 12oz
midland gxt walkie talkie 4oz - partner carries other
small molle wallet 6oz - - extra folder, pen, sharpie, mask, rain poncho, fresnel magnifier, signal mirror, handkerchief, pad of paper, cash, copies of licenses
mini ifak 3oz - contents in next picture
small am/fm radio w/o batteries 12oz
12 hour glowsticks x2 1.75oz
smartwool socks 1.5oz
katadyn mybottle 9.7oz - 26 gallon capacity, used without filter for potable water
yard gloves 3oz
paracord (50 ft) 1oz
necklace 3oz - firestarter, whistle, mini-maglight, AAA battery, katadyn purifying tabs
lifestraw 2 oz
flare 8oz - firestarter/signaling/etc
AA batteries x4 4oz
misc carry stuff 16oz
1L platy bottle, 2x cliff bars 6oz
silcock key 7oz
Riveted Space Blanket 10oz heavy duty with rivets. shelter/blanket
Sig SP2022 w/10 round mag 40oz - 10 rounds allowed by law in CA NOTE: pistol only in bag if PT709 not on person
bic lighter wrapped in gorilla tape
Cliff bars x2
misc 16 map, glasses case etc
cat ass not included in bag

Contents of EDC IFAK:

Super glue
bandages
gauze
moleskin
latex gloves
q-tips
hydrocortozone
neosporin
whistle
over-the-counter pain relievers


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BOB

I don't have a BoL yet (still rather new to the region), so my BoB is really just a repository for my gear in the event I had to quickly leave home. I guess you could consider it a watered-down INCH lacking enough food to be an INCH.
My BoB includes everything in the above mentioned EDC since it can clip onto the outside of the BoB and could work as an E&E bag.
The weight is excessive and although I could do it, it would suck and I wouldn't make it too far on foot (thus the camping setup below). I would have to drop some of the gear.

On shopping list: splint, quick clot, solar kit (considering brunton solar roll), rechargeable battery kit, good poncho.


BoB weight without E&E/EDC bag: 47 pounds packed up in the Eberlestock halftrack:



Shelter:

Clark NX150 hammock with weather shield and rain fly 69oz
space blanket - large, heavy duty with riveted corners 10oz
tent stakes for rain fly 2oz
Marmot Helium 15f bag - my Ao really doesn't drop below freezing ever 33oz


Tools that are on outside of the pack:

mora clipper 2oz
estwing sportsman axe 25oz
brunton compass 2oz
shovel 3.5oz (required by state law to shovel for campfire permit)
yard gloves 3oz


Tools pouch - total weight: 48oz

paracord
small can wd40
super glue
gorilla tape - cardboard removed and flattened
spare maglight with 2AA - plan to upgrade to lighter more durable
universal headband for flashlight - works great with 4Sevens, not so great with maglight
zipties
pencil
small flare
12 hour lightstick
extra space blanket
paper and sharpie - plan to upgrade to rite in the rain
extra batteries
bandanna
bic lighter
otis cleaning kit for all calibers I own
gun brush
Clip gun cleaning bottle
sight adjustment tool for pistols
optics cleaning tool (the black pen sized devise)
AR disassemble tool


Hygene Kit with pouch - total weight: 16oz

chemical footwarmers x2
chap stick
nail clippers
signal mirror - also for hygene/first aid purposes
toothbrush, toothpaste, bar soap
deodorant
surgical facemask
hand sanitiser
multi-vitamins
extra meds
bic lighter with lots of gorilla tape
tampons
wet wipes and TP


FAK - total weight roughly 32oz:


(contents listed in left to right, top to bottom)
gauze pads, surgical sponges - various sizes
wrapping
long q-tips
tampons (for real purpose or medical)
q-tips
moleskin
second skin
sting eze
more gauze pads
scissors
super glue
artificial tears
gauze
anticeptic towlettes
after cuts and burns
latex gloves
bandaids - various sizes
medical tape
tube triple antibiotic ointment
after-bite
ointments
prescription pain killers (with perscription included) - saved from previous treatment
Ibuprofen
Tylenol
pepto
teasers
scissors
medical guide - came with the kit
safety pins


Misc (top pocket of bag - next 2 pictures) - total weight roughly 48oz

Extra ripstop BDUs
large space blanket - OD green on one side - edges lined in duct tape for durability
small drawstring bag
headlamp
towel zorbees (like sham wow)
biner

survival necklace - whistle, simi-accurate compass, firestarter, AA flashlight, Bic wrapped in gorilla tape, LED squeeze light
razor blades
safety pins
travel sewing kit
2 feet aluminium foil
water proof matches
earplugs
visine bottle filled with bleach (extra water purification)
Bic lighters - one wrapped in gorilla tape
tinder
paracord - 25ft
knife sharpener
AA battery caddy w/o batteries - need to add rechargeables
pouch for these goodies


Food - total weight 15oz:

freeze dried meals x2
mayday 2400 calorie bars x2
clif bars x4


Clothing in water tight stuff sack (all synthetic clothes) 48oz:

fleece pullover
synthetic long underwear set
sportsbra
undies x2
smartwool socks x2
long sleeve shirt
beanie


Cooking and water carry 136.9oz total:

32oz nalgene w/ aluminum space saving mug 11oz
Emberlit stove 5.5oz - paper seen in pic is my campfire permit
2L bladder 76oz including water
lifestraw 2oz
Katadyn pocket 20oz - 13k liter capacity
GSI Microdualist 22.4oz - see next pic for contents


GSI Microdualist contents (included in the 22.4oz specified above)

4 cups with 2 lids
GSI Microdualist
zorbees small towel
spork
can opener
hand sanitiser
bic lighter
fire starter (I must have set it off to the side or something, not pictured)


Alternate Water pouch - total weight roughly 16oz with pouch:

1L platy bottles x2
space sleeping bag
garbage bags
water mini kit with 1L container and Katadyn purification tabs
orange bandanna, extra baggies (bandanna can be used for extra absorption or signalling


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Zombie infestation loadout: 443oz total = 27.69 pounds not including BoB

AR loaded with molle scabard 185oz - scabard not pictured
Tapco loaded mags x10 98oz - modified to 10 for CA legal
Interceptor armor iiia - 6 mag pouches 160oz
US gor-tex bivy cover and bag for sleeping bag - weight not taken


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Camping loadout 386.8oz = 24.18 pounds
I took most of the BoB backpacking not too long ago. The pack weighed in at around 34ish pounds which is just barely above 1/4 of my body weight. I figured it would be tough for my fitness level, but thought it would be fine. Well a 2 mile hike up a steep hill taught me otherwise and I was ready be airlifted out of the park (not really but the last mile really sucked). I had trim it down. So I bought an ultralight pack off of ebay, purchased a much better 2 pound sleeping bag and re-worked my camping config for regular use.

All of the gear in the camping list is taken from the BoB and EDC packs. On person gear stays the same but adds the 4Sevens flashlight from EDC pack.



PACK AND SHELTER: 140ounces total
backpack 28oz
thermarest zlite small - backing for pack 10oz
marmot helium 33oz
clark hammock 69oz


COOKING/WATER/FOOD: 140.3oz total
cooking kit 22.4oz
emberlit stove 5.5oz
katadyn pocket 20oz
2L bladder with water 76oz
Cliff Bars x2 4.8oz
Mountain House Freeze Dried Meal x2 9.6oz
1L platy bottle, katadyn tabs 2oz


TOOLS: 8.5oz total
mora clipper 2oz
paracord (50 ft) 1oz
Shovel 3.5oz
compass 2oz


DEFENSE: 44oz total
SP2022 loaded w/10 40oz
1 extra mags 4oz


MISC: 54oz total
yard gloves 3oz
midland gxt walkie talkie 4oz
hygiene kit with pouch 10oz
extra clothes 14oz
necklace 5oz
IFAK 8oz
misc 10oz


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Car Kit
space blanket
flashlight
toolkit
emergency roadside kit - a gift from a friend general kit
first aid kit - big store bought kit
woobie (military poncho liner)
siphon
multi-tool
wrecker/breacher bar
large road flares
Planning on adding food/water/etc to the car kit. Just haven't done that yet since I am usually on my motorcycle anyway.

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Some pics of the gear in action:

My campsite in Big Sur before I put the rainfly up:


Playing with the emberlit stove and the GSI Microdualist for the first time. I couldn't have been more impressed with both.




WISH LIST
Splint
Quick-clot


EDIT - Based on feedback received on this forum I'll be changing the following:
Many thanks to 2Now and The Machinist for the suggestions.

EDC changes made:
Add travel sewing kit (like the one in hte BoB)
Add char cloth for tinder
Add garbage bag
EDC IFAK: ace bandage, tweezers, additional OTC meds.

BoB additions:
Goal Zero solar charger

[2now]

First very nice kit,modular and well thought out.
I think you know what you need to tighten up in your BoB, so I am only going to comment on your EDC.
consider adding
a canteen cup,
quick start fire fuel [that could be a candle, esbit, vasleine cotton balls, or even some olive oil]
some kind of tarp, even if it is only a painter's tarp,
sewing kit
snacks,
and maybe a couple of trash bags?
maybe some more OTC meds. [ibuprofen, caffeine, benydryl, immodium]
On the IFAK, I like to include an ace bandage and tweezers.
I know you also CCW, but some kind of thought towards defense might be a good idea. This is really just about modularity. If you had to defend yourself with only the contents of your EDC bag, what would you use? It need not be a gun. How about a big knife, E-tool, pepper spray, or something?

I would make sure and not include the tactical cat in the photo. in my experience they do not store well in backpacks

[kaligaran]

First very nice kit,modular and well thought out.
I think you know what you need to tighten up in your BoB, so I am only going to comment on your EDC.
consider adding
a canteen cup,
quick start fire fuel [that could be a candle, esbit, vasleine cotton balls, or even some olive oil]
some kind of tarp, even if it is only a painter's tarp,
sewing kit
snacks,
and maybe a couple of trash bags?
maybe some more OTC meds. [ibuprofen, caffeine, benydryl, immodium]
On the IFAK, I like to include an ace bandage and tweezers.
I know you also CCW, but some kind of thought towards defense might be a good idea. This is really just about modularity. If you had to defend yourself with only the contents of your EDC bag, what would you use? It need not be a gun. How about a big knife, E-tool, pepper spray, or something?

I would make sure and not include the tactical cat in the photo. in my experience they do not store well in backpacks

Thanks so much for the time to post. Yeah, cat ass not included in EDC .

Good call on the IFAK changes, I'll make those changes today!
I'll add a trash bag too, I had a couple in my BoB but didn't have one in the EDC.
I do have a couple of cliff bars but I must have set them to the side for the pic. I'll update my list now.
I'll get another travel sewing kit to add like the one in my BoB, it's small and light.
Good call on tinder too, I'll make some char cloth soon.
Why the canteen cup? I don't carry food that requires water and I have 3 ways to purify atm. I could add the nalgene with the aluminum space saver cup but that would replace the katadyn bottle which has a filter in it. I was thinking that the bottle purifier would be best suited for the GHB/EDC purposes.
The space blanket included is what I was hoping would double as my tarp. It's not a normal space blanket, here's the description: Unique 4-ply laminated structure. Each blanket is fully edge bound and grommeted at all corners. Dimensions: 60" x 84". It's very durable and not a normal space blanket. Think that is enough? The blanket I have is big and bulky though and it takes up a lot of space folded up. I'm bidding on a used military poncho now I was thinking about replacing the space blanket with b/c it will fold up smaller. Any thoughts between the two?

As far as non-lethal defense, that's something I've considered A LOT. For knifes, fixed blades must be unconcealed in CA which I feel would draw unneeded attention so I carry a folder in my pocket and multitool in my bag. But that's really a tool, not something I'd use as a weapon.
The other concern about non-lethal means is possible legality issues if I ever had to defend myself with my firearm. The whole 'you were carrying pepper spray, why did you pull your gun' would be a bad thing to have a defense attorney say in court. I'm a member of Calguns.com and have read countless threads on this exact topic. It seems the concensus here in CA is that non-lethal is just a bad idea if CCW'ing. It's something I would like to get for camping (primarily for use on agressive animals) though.

edited to fix my fail typing.

[tookieblueeyes]

I agree with kaligaran on adding the trash bag. Those things can have a dozen good uses in any kit.

I think that with what you have there you could definitly survive and get home or get to your BOL (when you find one) without trouble.

Well done IMO.

[kaligaran]

I would make sure and not include the tactical cat in the photo. in my experience they do not store well in backpacks

I'm still laughing at 'tacitcal cat'. More like 'tactical paperweight'.


In all seriousness though, they have BoB's too. Their carriers are out and not stored away and include extra meds (including kitty valium that they got from the vet when they flew with me across the country), food, collaspable bowl and copies of their records/shots.

[The Machinist]

Outstanding Post. Tremendous amounts of win IMO. Excellent listing of contents for each pic. I am intrigued by the stove. How thick would you say the metal is on that stove? I looked up their site but they are rather vague on details. I have been messing with folding stoves for some time here and am looking at making one thinner that the 1/16th version I currently make. How do you like its functionality, weight?

Also the Clark Hammock, any opinions on it? Good /Bad? Looks like a nice rig.

Gotta love the Tactical Paperweight Cat. When all else fails, toss the cat and it will surely stop any bad guy or at least ruin his day.

On the sewing kit, I picked one up at a local drug store, gutted it and replaced the cheap thread with spools of thread I know will hold up when I need them most. I also added some milspec buttons, nylon repair patch, super glue and some tape. Looking at it now, I think I only bought the sewing kit for the case and some needles. lol

As far as the solar kit, I am using the Goal Zero Guide 10 and love it!!! Charges all my batteries and phones. has worked well in several outings.

[charlie rain]

I relied entirely on a hammock for the longest time. Then one hike there weren't any trees that could hold it. Granted, I should have known that "camping above the treeline" would post just such a problem, but I hadn't thought it out. It ended up being a nice enough night that sleeping under the stars was a possibility, but since then I've always had a contingency.

If your hammock fly is detachable, you may want to experiment with using your hiking sticks as tentpoles and determine how many stakes (you can get a 6 pack of aluminum stakes at walmart on the cheap) you need to make it a ground tent. Don't forget extra 550 to tie it out. If your fly doesn't have tie down points on the sides, tuck a rock under the corner, pinch the fabric around and tie off to that.

[Boondock]

Nice gear. Best part of your kit: The Mass Effect, alliance special ops, N7 patch on your ruck.

[kaligaran]

@ The machinist: I absolutly love the emberlit stove. I got the titanium version and it comes in at 5.5 ounces for $55. The steel one is more than twice the weight for $35. I don't know about the thickness but the owner of the site is really fast to respond to emails and really nice. I read a ton of reviews and finally decided to spring for it. I was mostly concerned about the little tabs that fit together possibly bending and snapping off. But when it's folded up together in a pack, there's no way it's getting bent up. It boiled water really fast and cooled fast too. When I was done I just knocked it over to knock out the ash/embers and about 5-8 minutes later was able to gather it up. It is really rugged and has taken abuse. I would definitly recommend it.
I went to the drug store yesterday and bought a sewing kit after 2now's suggestion. Figured it was light enough, so why not. This new one does have fail thread. I'm definitly gonna replace it with some better thread.
RE: the clark hammock, I love it too. It's super durable. The best feature to me was the pockets both inside and out, they are really convinient.

@ Charlie: The version of the clark that I have does have a detachable rainfly and I always keep extra paracord in case my rainfly cordage breaks.
I haven't tried rigging it up with the trekking poles but I've seen others do that. You make a good point, I should try it myself.
If there are no trees you can use it as a ground bivy. The NX250/150 like I have has support poles to keep the shape and make it feel much bigger inside which would definitly be best for ground camping. I set it up in my living room when I first got it and climbed in. It wasn't bad on the ground. Basically a small 1 person tent.

@Boondock: Thanks! I alternate this patch between my pack and my new jacket. Velcro FTW!

[kaligaran]

As far as the solar kit, I am using the Goal Zero Guide 10 and love it!!! Charges all my batteries and phones. has worked well in several outings.

Do you mind saying why you went with the Guide 10? I was looking at the Nomad 7. Also, it seems heavy compared to the powerfilm/solarroll route. Any thoughts?

[jeepinbandtrider]

I used that same sling bag for an EDC for a while. Then I started doing some short 5 mile humps with it (if I would have had to use it I would have had to go about double that to get home assuming my main route wasn't blocked. I F'in hated it having only one shoulder strap. Very uncomfortable and caused neck pain after a bit. I wound up selling it off and going to a Tan/Grey Kelty daypack.

I'll probably never have another sling by for any kind of duty like EDC or get home bag.

[kaligaran]

I used that same sling bag for an EDC for a while. Then I started doing some short 5 mile humps with it (if I would have had to use it I would have had to go about double that to get home assuming my main route wasn't blocked. I F'in hated it having only one shoulder strap. Very uncomfortable and caused neck pain after a bit. I wound up selling it off and going to a Tan/Grey Kelty daypack.

I've seen this feedback on sling bags and I have a feeling I will feel the same doing hikes. One of the reasons I wanted a small day sling bag is because I always felt weird taking a backpack in everywhere I went like a store. The sling bag feels to me as if it looks more like a satchel/purse. It's also much easier to get into it while on the motorcycle and I don't have to set it down on the ground if I sit somewhere, instead I just sling it around to the front.
The weight is significant I can already tell, I do have it stuffed full though.

[jeepinbandtrider]

I used that same sling bag for an EDC for a while. Then I started doing some short 5 mile humps with it (if I would have had to use it I would have had to go about double that to get home assuming my main route wasn't blocked. I F'in hated it having only one shoulder strap. Very uncomfortable and caused neck pain after a bit. I wound up selling it off and going to a Tan/Grey Kelty daypack.

I've seen this feedback on sling bags and I have a feeling I will feel the same doing hikes. One of the reasons I wanted a small day sling bag is because I always felt weird taking a backpack in everywhere I went like a store. The sling bag feels to me as if it looks more like a satchel/purse. It's also much easier to get into it while on the motorcycle and I don't have to set it down on the ground if I sit somewhere, instead I just sling it around to the front.
The weight is significant I can already tell, I do have it stuffed full though.

You'd probably look less strange carrying a commercial hiking type day pack. No MOLLE but it doesn't look like a tactical pack either and draws less attention.

[The Machinist]

As far as the solar kit, I am using the Goal Zero Guide 10 and love it!!! Charges all my batteries and phones. has worked well in several outings.

Do you mind saying why you went with the Guide 10? I was looking at the Nomad 7. Also, it seems heavy compared to the powerfilm/solarroll route. Any thoughts?

The Nomad 7 is actually the 7 watt solar collector for the Guide 10 system. (The 10 means it has a 10 watt hour power pack supply potential) The guide 10 system adds the 5 watt battery pack to the mix. (it has a special port for the 5 watt pack to attach directly to the charger). In other words, an all in one kit versus hooking your device directly to the charger or you can still hook your device to the charger if you want to. This way, it is having a battery pack to charge or feed from plus a way to charge NiMH AA and AAA batteries. It also has a 12 volt trickle charger port and I have tried charging a 12 volt battery with it. It does work but is a bit slow. If you have a battery that was run down because the lights or something else was left on, I have charged a car battery using the device for this reason. It did take almost 9 hours in the spring sun to do it. Not sure it would take the whole 9 hours but I gave it 9 hours to be sure. When it was charged, It started the car right back up with no issues or ill effects.

The extra weight for the battery pack with 4 AA batteries is only .4 lbs. The entire unit together weighs only 1.2 lbs. I liked the fold up design for ruggedness and knowing I would not fold or bend the film by accident which has been said to happen with some of the roll up designs. (I read about that happening on some of the techno geek boards when I did some research back when I first looked into buying one - I do not have any experience in the rolled units) My unit has has falen off a BoB before and withstood the drop onto solid rock with no ill effect. Not saying to beat the holy hell out of it or any electronic for that matter, but it is still nice to know it was ruggedly built for action in case of a drop or fall or equipment shifting and pressing against it.

I also purchased Energizer NiMH battries AA x 8 and AAA x 6 for the different equipment that I use. I have charged a Kindle Fire, iPad, Samsung Galaxy S and Acclaim on this system. Not to mention my Stinger, GPS and Midland FRS radios.

By the way, it mounts nicely to the back of my packs with small loops that help give a place to secure it onto your gear.

In the end, it was a good fit for the weight and mass when folded. The system is also expandable with other power packs and accessories. Be careful because some power packs and accessories require a more robust panel array depending on the wattage / drain on the system.

Lastly, let me say that I am by no means an expert in solar panels / power supplies. There are surely a lot more techno saavy people on this site who could give expert testimonials on the intricate workings of these devices. These are my honest observations and opinions. This system works for me and I have hiked with it and set up a base camp with it with no complaints. Hope at the very least it helps you make an informative decision.

Holy hell, I just looked up at what I wrote and it looks like I should start selling these things huh?

[greenbeetle]

Nice kit. Well thought out!

[kaligaran]

Thanks Green!

Thanks for the info Machinist, the goal zero is the right price. Based on what you have said and what other stuff I have read, sounds like it's worth a shot. Any solar charger > no solar charger.
Thisis the one you have right?

[Chef]

Silicon (as in California) Valley and you edc a handgun? That begs a number of questions.

I used to carry a sleeping bag in its oem stuff sack strapped under my backpack with bungees, but revised my ways. Sleeping bags are pretty important and expensive to have so exposed to loss and damage on the trail.

Style points for the Clark's hammock. I've wanted to try one of those for a while.

[kaligaran]

Silicon (as in California) Valley and you edc a handgun? That begs a number of questions.

Yeah, California.

I used to carry a sleeping bag in its oem stuff sack strapped under my backpack with bungees, but revised my ways. Sleeping bags are pretty important and expensive to have so exposed to loss and damage on the trail.

You make a great point Chef, I hadn't given that too much thought so I'm glad you brought it up. I strapped it there for the pic, for a true bug out, the distance would determine if I could even carry everything listed. I may have to stash some of the stuff to help with weight for a long trek. Any of the bigger components could replace it under the bag. I could even stuff the sleeping bag in a side pocket of the pack. When camping it's in the camping pack as pictured so fully enclosed.

Style points for the Clark's hammock. I've wanted to try one of those for a while.

It was a hard decision because they aren't cheap. But it was a good decision for sure. I loves it!

[The Machinist]

Thanks Green!

Thanks for the info Machinist, the goal zero is the right price. Based on what you have said and what other stuff I have read, sounds like it's worth a shot. Any solar charger > no solar charger.
Thisis the one you have right?

Yes, that is the kit. Great price for what is included. Awesome that they grouped the AAA batteries and adapter in now. I had to buy my AAA batteries and adapter separately in an add on kit. Though it seems like a novelty, the Luna LED light is a nice catch as well. I hope it will serve you as well as mine has served me.

Regarding the Clark Hammock, can you give some pros and cons on it. I have two of the Hennessy Hammocks (Explorer Deluxe and Expedition) and truly love the hell out of them. Unless I got stuck in an area with no trees what so ever and I could not hang between two vehicles, I will never sleep on the ground again. Best night's sleep I ever had in the woods. I am not biased to Hennessy but did buy them mostly because of the bottom entrance and write ups I have seen around the web. I did see Clark but did not see enough info when I was looking to help sway me to buy one. The price was not terribly scary if you know you are getting quality over quantity. I can truly say I am a hammock convert for camping now. lol I really do want to try it in the winter with the liner and winter set up so that will be on my wish list as far as hammock stuff is concerned. If you have winter camped with a hammock, please let me know your likes and dislikes about it if you would.

[kaligaran]

Yes, that is the kit. Great price for what is included.

You've sold me on the Goal Zero kit. For that price, feels like I can't lose. I'll have to pick one up.

Regarding the Clark Hammock, can you give some pros and cons on it. .

I haven't owned another hammock so these pros/cons could overlap with other brands and models, so bare with me if they do.
Here's the model I own.

Pros:
The 6 big pockets under it are insulating and you can stuff them full of gear to keep your gear safe and dry. Plus it helps keep you warm.
Two zippered pockets inside the hammock fit anything small. I use them for a small pistol, walkie talkie, flashlight and my perscription glasses.
The poles at the foot/head end keep the hammock roomy inside by preventing it from collapsing in on you when you get in.
You can't tip this thing. Trust me, I tried.
Looks awesome.
Integrated stuff sack.
I can sleep on my side.
Seperate rain fly.
Weather shield and bug net (two pieces) can be stored away in a pocket near the foot end without removing them entirely from the hammock.
Rainflys have velcro at the foot/head end to add another layer of protection that let you really hunker down in a storm.

Cons:
A bit heavier than some others I looked at. The NX 150 is 69 ounces with the XL rain fly.
Everyone wants to get in it.
Cost, this camo setup with the XL rain fly ran me about $465 IIRC.


When I first setup this hammock it was like knotting amature hour. Eventually I got it and it was stable, but I've gotta learn better knots to make setup easier going forward. Or just buy some treestraps and biners (but that's just more weight.

Haven't actually done true winter camping (we don't really have winter here). Coldest I've been in it was around 40 degrees. It was cold but I also had a shitty sleeping bag. I'm going back out this weekend to test out my new sleeping bag so fingers crossed.

[The Machinist]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts on the Clark Hammock. I do like several of the features you have with it. I guess with anything, you get what you pay for. I went to the Clark Web Site and drooled for a couple hours. I had to leave before I decided to switch teams from Hennessy to Clark. lol

As for the tree straps, I purchased after market tree huggers from Hammock Bliss on Amazon Hammock Bliss Deluxe Cinching Tree Straps Check them out and see if they are what you are wanting. I love the size of them and how easy they are to set up. They worked very well and did not slip during the entire trip. I recently picked up some Black Diamond Biners to use as quick connects. Not trying to break the bank but you mentioned tree straps.

Thanks again for giving your 5 cents worth.

[kaligaran]

Thanks to The Machinist's review/suggestions, I picked up a Goal Zero 10 Adventure kit.

Anyone else have any tips? So far the suggestions I've gotten for changes are great. Please keep them coming. I've not been at this for long (only really working on the kit for 2ish years) so hoping to keep getting suggestions from the more seasoned survivalists.

[The Machinist]

Thanks to The Machinist's review/suggestions, I picked up a Goal Zero 10 Adventure kit.

Anyone else have any tips? So far the suggestions I've gotten for changes are great. Please keep them coming. I've not been at this for long (only really working on the kit for 2ish years) so hoping to keep getting suggestions from the more seasoned survivalists.

Congrats on buying the Solar kit and I hope it lives up to all of your expectations.

I have been at the whole preparedness, self defense, self reliant life style for 20 + years, and to me, your write up on your kit shows that you have learned quite a lot and continue to have the right mind set for improving on it. Keep it up!

[kaligaran]

Congrats on buying the Solar kit and I hope it lives up to all of your expectations.

I have been at the whole preparedness, self defense, self reliant life style for 20 + years, and to me, your write up on your kit shows that you have learned quite a lot and continue to have the right mind set for improving on it. Keep it up!

Thanks so much! Excited to get my Goal Zero.

To be honest, I have learned the most about BoBs on ZS, looking at other member's kits and the discussions around them. So if the kit looks that good, I only have you guys to thank. I have stalked many forums including this one for 2ish years before I ever joined. I just picked this one to join b/c this community seems like it was more 'my people', if that makes sense.
When I first started, Woods Walker'smassive BoB post as well as Mags are really what motivated me to make a kit a couple of years ago.

I posted up my kit b/c I know there's always many areas for improvement. Looking forward to continuing to hear feedback from those like yourself that have been at this for a lot longer.