Arch's Kits

[Arch]

PREFACE - READ THIS FIRST!

Before you look through the lists of gear below, I think it is important for you to understand WHY I choose the gear I chose:

1) I grew up with a survivalist uncle who helped me buy my first AR15 in 1984 at the tender age of 10 years old. Since around 1983 I've spent a great deal of time in the woods, around survivalist types, researching, testing, and wasting money on this.

2) Conservatively speaking, I'd estimate that I've spent $12,000 to $15,000 on gear over the past 25 years. This EXCLUDES firearms, ammunition, and training.

3) Up until around 1999, my sole prep focus was the "tactical" aspects. When the Y2K issue became commonly discussed, I started expanding my prep's to include BIL items such as food, med's, water, etc.

4) Over the years, I accumulated a metric ton of gear. In early 2009 I embarked on a total revamp of my prep equipment, and ended up selling over $4k worth of stuff on this board and others. I cut my gear down to the bare essentials, and am glad I did.

PHILOSOPHY - READ THIS SECOND!

My survival philosophy has evolved over the years. When I started, it was all about the "Red Dawn" scenario. We were going to run out into the woods and fight valiantly. I'm much older, and hopefully wiser and more mature now. As such, my focus has shifted from the Rambo mentality to the Survivorman mentality. This is not to say that I will not fight for those things I care about, because I will fight and I will do so ferociously. However, with age comes many things....including insight....

A) STAY HOME! While many of us have grandiose mental images of heading out into the wilds with a back pack and living forever - there are very few of us that will survive indefinitely. I have A LOT of wilderness experience, and still feel vastly under prepared for life outside of the sanctuary of a permanent structure complete with all of the creature comforts modern man has incorporated into his existence.

B) WRITE BEFORE YOU BUY! Develop a detailed plan of action before you start spending your cash on gear. Determine what perils may befall you, and then develop lists of gear you'll need to mitigate those perils. RESEARCH is your friend. Learn from others, and get some hands-on time with the type of equipment you think you'll need. Don't settle for "as good as", because trust me - it isn't as good as. Save and buy right the first time.

From doing this, I learned that bugging-in is the absolute best option. However, my planning revealed many situations that might require a bug-out. Thus, bug-out kits had to be assembled.

C) CHOOSE WISELY! Like most of you, I'm not a professional athlete; Navy Seal; or former US Army Ranger. I'm an average American citizen. As such, I can only carry about 65-70 TOTAL pounds of gear (excluding the clothes I'm wearing). This means I had to select equipment based on a variety of criteria:

* Weight vs Durability
* Multifunctionality
* Redundancy - Replicated Gear vs Niche Gear

The most difficult part of selecting my gear has been: settling for something based solely on price; and building kits that were so overladen they weren't man portable.

D) LET THE MISSION DRIVE THE GEAR! Just because you've seen pictures of Navy Seal's using it doesn't mean its the right thing for you. Far too much attention is given to the way something LOOKS or to the INTERNET HYPE surrounding it. I've been doing this long enough to see many generations of fad gear come and go. For the average survivalist there are just a few keystone principles to remember when selected your kit:

1. KISS! While it might look great in the movies, complicated equipment is prone to failure and really serves very little practical purpose to the average prepper. Simple is nearly always better.

2. BUY RIGHT THE FIRST TIME! I cannot reiterate enough how important it is to not settle for lessor quality gear. I've owned countless items that LOOKED like good kit, but did not perform well. It costs more to have better gear, but how much is your life worth? Save and choose wisely.

3. TEST YOUR KIT! We all like to talk online about our gear; post pictures; and talk about our survival philosophy. However, how many of you actually USE your gear? Its people like Mags and Woods Walker that cut the BS and test their stuff. When they speak, I shut up and listen intently! Get out and test your equipment!!! This doesn't mean abuse it, because all products have a limited useful life. You need to test and become proficient with everything you plan on using. Do you know if your gear works as advertised? Do you know if you can work your gear?

E) LIFESTYLE! If you're 600 pounds, and can't walk to your bathroom - then no amount of gear is going to help you. Survivalism is a lifestyle, and you're either in or you're out. We all won't look like Gerald Butler in the movie 300, but we can all strive to be mentally and physically healthy. This is, in my opinion, a bigger asset in the PAW than any gear you buy off the rack at your favorite retailer.

CLOSING STATEMENTS - READ THIS THIRD!

The above information wasn't meant to berate or insult anyone. I worded everything strongly, because I feel the information is vitally important. Now, if you've read this far you're probably expecting to see some mind boggling gear below. You'll probably be surprised to find that a lot of my kit is stuff you can readily, and somewhat inexpensively obtain. I chose the gear based on the balanced criteria.

THE KITS - READ THIS LAST!

My planning is based on an overlapping principle - meaning my lessor kits can supplement or somewhat integrate with the larger or more comprehensive ones. Here are the kits I own and use:

PSK (Personal Survival Kit) - this is on my person every moment I am awake.
EDC (Every Day Carry) - this goes with me if I leave my home.
S-BOB (Short Period Bug Out Bag) - this is set up for 72 Hours.
E-BOB (Extended Period Bug Out Bag) - this is set up for longer than 72 Hours.
MISCELLANEOUS GEAR - these are "as needed" items that can be added.

PSK (PERSONAL SURVIVAL KIT)

Fire

• Fire Starter, Swedish Fire-Steel Scout Model

Knives & Tools

• Folding Blade Knife, CRKT M16-10K Tanto
• Multi-Function Folding Knife, Victorinox Classic (on my key ring)
• Multi-Function Folding Knife, Wenger Highlander

Miscellaneous

• Cellular Telephone & Carrier
• Keys
• Wallet (Cash, Credentials, Credit Card, Insurance Info)

EDC (EVERY DAY CARRY)

Back Pack

• Planner, Diplomat (B)
• Small Pack, Gerber, Evader (B)

Apparel - Cold Weather

• Level 2 – Middle Wear

• Cap, Watch-Type 100% Wool (B)

Apparel - Protective

• Gloves, G-Tek Protective

Defense

• Glock 23 with Night Sights
• (3) Magazines, Glock 22 with 14rds
• Magazine, Glock 23 with 12 rds
• Weapon Light, StreamLight TLR-1

Fire

• Butane Lighter, Bic Classic
• Fire Starter, Doan, Magnesium Bar
• Fire Starter, Light My Fire, Army Model
• Tinder Bottle, 35mm Film Canister with Petrol Cotton
• Waterproof Match Case, Strike Anywhere Matches

First Aid

• Mini Kit

Food

• (4) Energy & Nutrition Bars, CLIF
• (3) Instant Oatmeal, Apples & Cinnamon

Food Preparation

• Canteen Cup, USGI Stainless
• Canteen Cup Stand, USGI
• Utensil, Light My Fire, Lexan Spork

Hygiene & Sanitation

• (4) Sanitation Wipes, Germ-X Singles

Knives & Tools

• Fixed Blade Knife, Benchmade Griptilian with Sheath
• Knife Sharpener, Gerber, Ceramic
• Multi-Tool, Gerber Crux

Light

• Flashlight, Mini Mag LED with Push Tail Cap
• (2) Batteries, Energizer
• (2) Spare Batteries, AA
• (2) Spare Batteries, CR123

Miscellaneous

• Cell Phone Charger, Automotive
• (Large) Duct Tape, Wrapped on Business Card
• Ziplock Bag, 1 Gallon Freezer

Navigation & Signaling

• Compass, Silva Starter
• Map, Road
• Map, Topograhic
• Marker, Sharpie (Black)

Shelter

• (50 Feet) 550 Cord, Seven Strand
• Emergency Poncho
• Emergency Space Blanket
• Poncho, Civilian Ripstop (MPT)
• Trash Bag, 4Mil, 33 Gallon

Water

• Pre-Filter, Bandana (Blue)
• (2) Water Bottle, Nalgene 32oz
• Water Filter, Aquamira, Frontier
• (50) Water Purification Tablets, Potable Aqua
• (50) Flavor Neutralizer Tablets, Potable Aqua

S-BOB (SHORT TERM BUG OUT BAG)

Back Pack

• Large Ruck, Tactical Tailor, Malice V2 Kit (OD)

Apparel – All Weather

• (2) Socks, Uzi Coolmax
• Undershirt, 5.11 Tactical 80/20 Poly Spandex with Dry-X-Treme (OD)
• Underwear, Men’s

Apparel - Cold Weather

• Level 1 – Inner Wear

• Balaclava, USGI ECWCS Polypropylene (CB)
• Pants, USGI ECWCS Polypropylene (CB)
• Shirt, USGI ECWCS Polypropylene (CB)
• (2) Socks, Field & Stream Wool
• (1) Socks, LH Brand 71% Merino Wool
• (1) Sock Liners, ECWCS Polypropylene (B)

• Level 2 – Middle Wear

• Cap, Watch-Type 100% Wool (OD)
• (1pr) Glove Liners, USGI Wool (OD)

• Level 3 – Outer Wear

• (1pr) Combat Boots, Addison USGI Gore-Tex (T) * Stored with Ruck
• (1pr) Gloves, USGI Leather (B)
• Parka, USGI Gore-Tex ECWCS (WD)
• Trousers, USGI Gore-Tex ECWCS (WD)

Apparel - Tactical

• Woodland, Summer Weight
• Coat, BDU, USGI RipStop (WD)
• Jungle Hat, Cotton Ripstop (WD)

Apparel - Warm Weather

• Boots, Altama LiteSpeed (B) * Stored with Ruck
• Shirt, 5.11 Tactical Nylon 4.7oz Ripstop (OD)
• Trousers, 5.11 Tactical Nylon Canvas 7.4oz Dry-X-Treme (OD)

Fire

• Butane Lighter, Bic Classic
• Candle, UCO Emergency 9-Hour, Citronella
• Fire Starter, Light My Fire, Army Model
• Fire Starting Kit

• Blade
• Magnesium Bar, Doan
• Magnesium Shavings
• Tinder

• (2) Tinder Bottle, 35mm Film Canister with Petrol Cotton
• Waterproof Match Case, Strike Anywhere Matches

First Aid

• (Major) Trauma Kit

Fishing Equipment

• (900 yards) 15# Fishing Line, Trilene Big Game
• Hook Box with (Assorted) Hooks
• Plano Lure-Box

• (3 small) Foam Floats
• (160) Hooks, Assorted
• (2) Hooks, Fly Type
• (25) Lures, 2” Curl Tail, Chartreuse
• (25) Lures, 2” Curl Tail, White
• (8) Lures, 2” Live Prey Technology, Motor Oil Red
• (10) Lures, 3” Curl Tail, Chartreuse
• (3) Lures, 3.5” Worm with Hooks
• (20) Safety Pins, Assorted Sizes
• (60) Split Shot, BB Size

Food

• (7) Drink Mix, Gatorade (Add 16.9oz Water)
• (7) Energy & Nutrition Bars, CLIF
• (7) Freeze Dried Entrée, Mountain House 2-Serving
• (7) Instant Oatmeal, Apples & Cinnamon

Food Preparation

• Can Opener, USGI P38
• Canteen Cup, USGI
• (2) Cleaning Pad, Brillo
• Mess Kit, East German 3pc
• Utensil, Brunton, My-Ti Titanium Spork

Hygiene & Sanitation

• Comb
• Floss, Sample Size
• (2.5oz) Hand Sanitizer, Germ-X
• Nail File
• (7) Sanitation Wipes, Germ-X Singles
• (15 Count) Sanitation Wipes, Wet-Ones
• (1 Packet) Tissue, Travel Size
• Toothbrush, Full Size
• Toothpaste, Travel Size

Knives & Tools

• Fixed Blade Knife, Becker, BK-9
• Sheath, Becker
• Fixed Blade Knife, Gerber LMFII
• Sheath, Gerber
• Knife Sharpener, Gatco Tri-Seps, Ceramic
• Swiss Army Knife, Wenger, Highlander

Light

• (3) Cyalume Light Stick
• Flashlight, Mini Mag
• (2) Batteries, Energizer
• (2) Spare Batteries, AA

Miscellaneous

• (Large) Duct Tape, Wrapped on Business Card
• Firearms Cleaning Kit
• (2) Bore Brush, 5.56
• (2) Bore Brush, 7.62
• (2) Bore Brush, 40 Caliber Handgun
• (1 Bottle) Bore Cleaner, USGI 2oz
• Bore Patches, USGI 5.56
• Bore Patches, 40 Caliber
• Broken Shell Extractor, 5.56
• Chamber Brush, USGI M16
• Cleaning Kit Pouch, USGI (OD)
• Lubricant, USGI LSA 2oz
• (3) Pipe Cleaner
• Receiver Brush, USGI
• Rifle Rod, USGI 5pc Sectional with Patch Holder
• Playing Cards, Knot Tying
• Ziplock Bag, 1 Gallon Freezer

Navigation & Signaling

• Compass, Silva Starter
• Map, Road
• Map, Topograhic
• Marker, Sharpie (Black)

Shelter

• (100 Feet) 550 Cord, Seven Strand
• Bivy Bag, USGI Gore-Tex (WD)
• Emergency Space Blanket
• Ground Pad, Automotive Sun Shade
• Mosquito Head Net
• Poncho, USGI Ripstop (WD)
• Trash Bag, 4Mil, 33 Gallon

Water

• Pre-Filter, Bandana (Red)
• (2) Water Bottle, Nalgene 16oz
• Water Filter, Katadyn, Hiker with Nalgene Adapter
• (15) Water Purification Tablets, Katadyn MP-1
• (50) Water Purification Tablets, Potable Aqua
• (50) Flavor Neutralizer Tablets, Potable Aqua

Battle Belt

• Equipment Belt, Blackhawk Modernized (OD)
• Escape & Evasion Pouch, Blackhawk (OD)
• Holster, Blackhawk Assault Drop Leg (OD)
• (2) Magazine Pouches, Handgun Triple, Blackhawk (CB)

Chest Rigs

• Operator’s Chest Rig, 762Tactical (OD)
• Hydration Harness, 762Tactical (OD)
• Hydration Bladder, 3L, Source (OD)
• Radio Pouch, Tactical Tailor (OD)
• Zipper Medic Utility Pouch, Blackhawk (OD)

Defense

• Handgun, Glock 22 with Night Sights
• (7) Handgun Magazines, 15rd

• Rifle, Colt LE6920
• BUIS, LaRue LT-103
• Buttstock, MagPul CTR
• CCO, Aimpoint ML2
• Pistol Grip, Tango Down Battle Grip
• Quad Rail, Daniel Defense Omega
• Sling, Blackhawk Swift 3 Point
• VFG, Tango Down Mk46
• Weapon Light, StreamLight TLR-1
• (13) Rifle Magazines, 30rd with MagPul Followers & Pulls

E-BOB (EXTENDED TERM BUG OUT BAG)

Back Pack (46.8 Pounds)

• Large Ruck, Blackhawk, SOF Kit (CB)

Apparel – All Weather

• (1) Socks, Smart Wool
• (1) Socks, Uzi Coolmax
• Undershirt, 5.11 Tactical 80/20 Poly Spandex with Dry-X-Treme (Tan)
• Underwear, Men’s

Apparel - Cold Weather

• Level 1 – Inner Wear

• Balaclava, USGI ECWCS Polypropylene (CB)
• Pants, USGI ECWCS Polypropylene (CB)
• Shirt, USGI ECWCS Polypropylene (CB)
• (2) Socks, Field & Stream Wool
• (1) Socks, LH Brand 71% Merino Wool
• (1) Sock Liners, ECWCS Polypropylene (B)

• Level 2 – Middle Wear

• Cap, Watch-Type 100% Wool (B)
• (1pr) Glove Liners, USGI Wool (OD)

• Level 3 – Outer Wear

• (1pr) Combat Boots, Bates USGI Gore-Tex (T) * Stored with Ruck
• (1pr) Gloves, USGI Leather (B)
• Parka, USGI Gore-Tex ECWCS (WD)
• Trousers, USGI Gore-Tex ECWCS (WD)

Apparel - Protective

• Gloves, G-Tek Protective
• Knee Pads, Blackhawk (CB)
• Safety Glasses

Apparel - Tactical

• MultiCam
• Coat, ACU, Propper 65/35 Ripstop (MC)
• Jungle Hat, Propper 100% Cotton RS (MC)
• Trousers, BDU, Propper 65/35 RS (MC)

Apparel - Warm Weather

• Boots, Altama LiteSpeed (B) * Stored with Ruck

Fire

• (2) Butane Lighter, Bic Classic
• Candle, UCO Emergency 9-Hour
• Fire Starter, Light My Fire, Army Model
• Fire Starting Kit
• Blade
• Magnesium Bar, Doan
• Magnesium Shavings
• Tinder
• (3) Tinder Bottle, 35mm Film Canister with Petrol Cotton
• Waterproof Match Case, Strike Anywhere Matches

First Aid

• (Minor) Trauma Kit

Fishing Equipment

• (900 yards) 15# Fishing Line, Trilene Big Game
• Hook Box with (Assorted) Hooks
• Plano Lure-Box

• (3 small) Foam Floats
• (160) Hooks, Assorted
• (2) Hooks, Fly Type
• (25) Lures, 2” Curl Tail, Chartreuse
• (25) Lures, 2” Curl Tail, White
• (8) Lures, 2” Live Prey Technology, Motor Oil Red
• (10) Lures, 3” Curl Tail, Chartreuse
• (3) Lures, 3.5” Worm with Hooks
• (20) Safety Pins, Assorted Sizes
• (60) Split Shot, BB Size

Food

• (7) Drink Mix, Gatorade (Add 16.9oz Water)
• (7) Energy & Nutrition Bars, CLIF
• (7) Freeze Dried Entrée, Mountain House 2-Serving
• (7) Instant Oatmeal, Apples & Cinnamon

Food Preparation

• Can Opener, USGI P38
• Cleaning Pad, Scotch Brite
• Mess Kit, East German 3pc
• (2pc) Utensil Set, Guyot, The Utensils

Hunting

• 22LR Handgun, Ruger MkIII Government
• (200rds) Ammunition, CCI Velocitor
• (100rds) Ammunition, Winchester Wildcat
• (2) Magazines, Ruger MkIII

Hygiene & Sanitation

• Comb
• Floss, Sample Size
• (2.5oz) Hand Sanitizer, Germ-X
• Nail File
• (4) Sanitation Wipes, Germ-X Singles
• (15 Count) Sanitation Wipes, Wet-Ones
• Toilet Paper
• Toothbrush, Full Size
• Toothpaste, Travel Size

Knives & Tools

• Camp Axe, Gerber with Carrier * Stored with Ruck
• Fixed Blade Knife, Becker, BK-9
• Sheath, Becker
• Fixed Blade Knife, Scrap Yard Scraper 5
• Sheath, Spec-Ops Combat Master (OD)
• Knife Sharpener, Gatco Tri-Seps, Diamond
• Knife Sharpener, Gerber, Ceramic
• Multi-Tool, Gerber 600
• Swiss Army Knife, Victorinox, Trekker One-Hand

Light

• Flashlight, Mini Mag with Push Tail Cap
• (2) Batteries, Energizer
• Flashlight, Mini Mag LED
• Solar Battery Charger, Silva Tech 4 0
• (2) Spare Batteries, AA
• (2) Spare Bulbs, Mini Mag

Miscellaneous

• (Large) Duct Tape, Wrapped on Business Card
• Firearms Cleaning Kit
• Bore Brush, 5.56
• Bore Brush, 45 Handgun
• (1 Bottle) Bore Cleaner, USGI 2oz
• Bore Patches, USGI 5.56
• Bore Patches, 40 Caliber
• Broken Shell Extractor, 5.56
• Chamber Brush, USGI M16
• Cleaning Kit Pouch, USGI (OD)
• Lubricant, USGI LSA 2oz
• (2) Pipe Cleaner
• Receiver Brush, USGI
• Rifle Rod, USGI 5pc Sectional with Patch Holder
• Ziplock Bag, 1 Gallon Freezer

Navigation & Signaling

• Binoculars, Simmons 10X
• Compass, Silva Starter
• Map, Road
• Map, Topograhic
• Marker, Sharpie (Red)

Shelter

• (100 Feet) 550 Cord, Seven Strand
• Bivy Bag, USGI Gore-Tex (WD)
• (2) Emergency Space Blanket
• Ground Pad, USGI (OD)
• Mosquito Head Net
• Poncho, USGI Ripstop (WD)
• Ranger Blanket, USMC (CB/MPT)
• Tent, 1-Person Solitaire, Eureka (B/Yellow)
• (2) Trash Bag, 4Mil, 33 Gallon

Water

• Pre-Filter, Bandana (Red)
• (2) Water Bottle, Nalgene 32oz
• Water Filter, Katadyn, Pocket with Nalgene Adapter
• (15) Water Purification Tablets, Katadyn MP-1
• (50) Water Purification Tablets, Potable Aqua
• (50) Flavor Neutralizer Tablets, Potable Aqua

Battle Belt

• Equipment Belt, Blackhawk Modernized (OD)
• Escape & Evasion Pouch, Blackhawk (OD)
• Holster, Blackhawk Assault Drop Leg (OD)
• (2) Magazine Pouches, Handgun Triple, Blackhawk (CB)

Chest Rigs

• Modular Assault Vest – 2pc, Tactical Tailor (MC)
• Hydration Carrier, TT (MC)
• 3L Bladder, Source
• (2) Magazine Pouches, 5.56 Triple, TT (MC)
• (3) Magazine Shingles, 5.56 Single, TT (MC)
• (1) Magazine Shingles, 5.56 Triple, TT (MC)
• X-Harness, TT (MC)
• Zipper Medic Pouch, TT (MC)

Defense

• Handgun, Glock 22 with Night Sights
• (7) Handgun Magazines, 15rd

• Rifle, Colt LE6920
• BUIS, LaRue LT-103
• Buttstock, MagPul CTR
• CCO, Aimpoint ML2
• Pistol Grip, Tango Down Battle Grip
• Quad Rail, Daniel Defense Omega
• Sling, Blackhawk Swift 3 Point
• VFG, Tango Down Mk46
• Weapon Light, StreamLight TLR-1
• (13) Rifle Magazines, 30rd with MagPul Followers & Pulls

MISC EQUIPMENT
(These items are intended for a vehicle bug-out if time; weight; and space permits them to be brought along).

Documents (To prove who I am after the PAW)

• Personal Docs (Deeds, Educational Info, Insurance Policies, Med Records, Etc)

Survival Related (Comfort Items)

• Camp Cookware, Coleman
• Camp Stove, Coleman Propane
• Lantern, Coleman Propane
• Radio, Eton Hand Crank
• Sleeping Bag, USGI Mummy
• Sleeping Bag System, USGI Extended Cold Weather MSS
• Tarps, Assorted Sizes
• Tent, 3 Man Dome

[Arch]

EDIT Nos. 1 & 2

I made some massive errors when I was cutting and pasting information from my Word Documents to this website. As a result, I've had to edit the OP several times to ensure everything was listed in the correct location. If you're among the first people to look over the gear list - you should probably revisit them.

EDIT No. 3
(Last Edited 7 Nov 09 at 10:15CST)

My kits are not "completed". I doubt they will ever be 100%. As gear evolves, and wears out things will need to be upgraded or replaced. The items listed in this edit will continue to change.

Thus far the "upgrades" I'd like to make include:

1) REPLACE the Blackhack Med Pouch on my Operator's Chest Rig with a Tactical Tailor Med Pouch.

2) ADD a Tactical Tailor Small Utility Pouch to the front of my TT MAV (for quicker access to my TQ; QuickClot; Etc).

3) ADD a lightweight stove to the E-BOB. JetBoil, Coleman Max; etc - I've not determined what this is going to be.

EDIT No. 4

This is an addendum to explain why I have two color variations: OD & Woodland vs Coyote Brown & Multicam.

The S-BOB is designed for 72 hours. During that time I doubt I would be able to get far from my BIL. This Area of Operation is mostly agricultural & woodland, and I designed the kit to blend with this (OD & Woodland).

The E-BOB is designed for longer than 72 hours. During an Extended BO I could foresee bumping into a variety of enviroments - which Coyote Brown & MultiCam excel at.

This solution was not an inexpensive one. I strongly considered going all CB & MC. However, after personal testing I determined that while CB & MC are OUTSTANDING "general use" patterns - they simply do not work as well as OD & Woodland in a mostly agricultural or woodland area (especially in the Spring and Summer). The two sets of camo and gear allow me to choose a MISSION SPECIFIC set up.

[Necrodamus]

Nice Kits Arch!

[gronch]

Your attitude is perfect. I'm jealous I didn't write this.

[wagdhead]

Very nice. As one just getting into this, thank you for your time and effort in putting this together.

[Stormrider]

Very cool, a good change of pace from the gigantic INCH kit you posted before I too have undergone a bit of an overhaul as far as what kind of kit I am using now as well, I had been planning to pack the kitchen sink as well until I actually started using my kit and found out that the ammount of stuff I realistically need is pretty minimal. I've also found out that some of my gear that I thought was awesome, isn't worth shit for my uses.

[91xlt]

ARCH, the time and effort involved in your posts/threads do not go with-out notice

VERY nice reduction in size/heft in your kits...imo, waaay more practical.

Good Job!
Thanks for posting.

[6shooter]

If there's one thing I've learned from the internet, it's that nothing in life is worth anything without pics



Really nice post, very well put together, props for that. Thanks for the post.

[aus.templar]

"• Underwear, Men’s"


pure win

[Fred Burke]

Excellent, sticky-worthy post. I can relate to some of the same pitfalls, wish I would have read this years ago, but still prolly would have had to learn the hard way. I've noticed in your other posts (which I make a point to read) great realistic forethought into everything. Don't beat yourself up about having to spend cash to learn lessons 9I definately wouldn't say you wasted money getting preprared best you thought at the time getting survival gear...wasting money is blowing paychecks on strippers and coke and weekend suites; You bought experience we benefit from on here, and you might think of doing some writing, booklet or e-book, you got the aptitude for it and it would be money well spent for someone like me in the couple months before finding this site.

Could tell this has been a lifelong deal for you, early on the primal interest or driving force was the militant aspects-guns, shooting, H2H combat, weapons...cool shit but in the grand scheme of life, probably more on the negative side compared to family, friends, nature and so on. That focus on preparation for winning conflicts to the exclusion of other stuff, I started off there. That's probably most of us too. My son being born just made my world better and happier overnight, i wouldn't just defend him with my life, but would for the rest of that life do everything I could to teach him to be a good man, a far better one than me. And learning self reliance and preparation is a big part of that, thinking for himself and what makes sense, not the biggest brainwashing cult out there, the 'news'media. one of our activities before he was too little to run around was stroller rides in the trails and woods. He loved the outdoors and animals (game ones in particular, LOL) from day one, something I always enjoyed when I was young and found peace there before losing my way in unrelenting pursuit of meaningless cheap thrills. I can't wait till we camp, fish, shoot (have forbidden toy guns for a number of reasons but he is a GUN NUT @ 22 months old and almost no exposure to them), hunt, everything. Like my dad did with me.
It's just nice to now include whistles, mirrors, etc. in a survival kit, even boo-boo medical stuff. Nothing E&E or outlawish. I just wanna live a while and watch him live his.

[Fred Burke]

I bet a lot of us either had an uncle like yours or other similar folks to plant the self reliance seed-militia types and superpatriots, vets, Christians preparing for revelations to happen, maybe political extremists right wing or left of dozens of subcultures. Or just plain organic hippies. I think this site today would do a lot to make folks think hard about something important that never crossed their mind before. Posts like this in particular.

Love your list making, and the stand alone components...but you seem like you've not just studied but practiced...not many of us would stand a chance in that Alone in the Wilderness doc. I think you'd do alright with half or less of your gear because of it.
Really liked the Write before You Buy advice. For me it's read before you buy, which bought me a lot of superfluous and outdated camping gear when I was attempting a BOB before this site. Unbelievable how much I learned and ideas have had from this site, and still don't know jack shit yet! But it's all on here to research, educate myself before spending one more damn dime. Shelter and fire, FAK/medical, cooking and foods is where I need to study up but always end up discussing firearms...STILL!
Recently signed up for my county homeland security CERT volunteer training, those certifications and skills will mean a lot to me even if I never have to use them. Something to counterbalance all the time, training and thought I've put into taking a life even completely justifiably or honorably.

Thanks Arch for sharing all the great tips, advice and wisdom here(all your threads, like that M&P comparison, you'd never find truth like that in a gun rag), you know what you are talking about and looks like you want folks to do their own thinking, not "look at all my awesome gear, this is what you need cause I think it's the best". You are a genuine teacher

[Arch]

Everyone - Thanks for the kind words. My goal was for this post to be educational (or at least informative). I elected to not post pictures, because they over shadow the commentary at the beginning of the thread. From all of the comments, I feel like this post was a success because it seems like you all actually read the important part (the beginning). Thanks for taking the time to do so!

Fred Burke - Thanks in particular for the encouragement. I invest a lot of time in trying to craft well developed information, and often wonder if anyone benefits from it. Having positive feedback like yours is the encouragement I need to continue investing myself in this forum.

91xlt - the above applies to you as well.

[Necrodamus]

I know my influence to prepare came from my grandparents.
I grew up in a home where the family (I mean grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins, everyone!) prepared a garden, raised chickens, made canned goods, even grew and processed our own hominey grits (not an easy task!)
I only wish I had listened more.
If I could have documented and photographed the things we did... it would be a fantastic resource!

[Mags]

Arch, aside from this being another great informative post you've once again elevated the lowly list to epic must read & reread levels!

I will be going over it again on my laptop. Just too much for the Blackberry.

Thanks for the shout out to. I'm humbled.

[mtnfolk mike]

right on Arch.. great post man.. these look like very well thought out kits.. i'm sure i'll be refering to this thread many times in the future...

[Hachiman]

The wife said you needed to post this about 10 years ago...but better late than never. Thanks for the informative and well focused post. I should probably print it and keep it in my bag to read when I'm thinking about buying gear.

[vyadmirer]

This should be required reading for new ZS'ers!

Im sure you spent some time on this and it shows. Thanks for sharing.

[Arch]

Everyone - Thanks again for the kind words.

I wrote this post for people getting started and for those of us that are getting more serious about our preparations.

If you're reading this, it is proof that we all turn to the internet for help with gear selections. I find it very easy to jump into someone's "what is the best product for...." thread and tell them what I chose. However, it is very time consuming and difficult to explain (repeatedly) the selection process I went through, and what a mature "survival mindset" consists of.

I would never steer a person away from their interest in the tactical aspects of survivalism. HOWEVER, that particular area (along with the "magic wand" philosophy - having enough gear will ensure your survival regardless of your mental; physical; and training status) is so seductive it becomes detrimental to the other areas and to having a realistic approach to prepping.

Hopefully threads like these will save people from wasting time and money on poor gear selections. Once a person starts to let the mission drive their preparations (and gear selection), it becomes apparent what is needed to survive (and what is not).

I'm a strong believer in investing time in physically writing out your potential disaster list; plan of action; and gear needs. This list can serve as an "inventory" once you start to accumulate equipment. I keep a small waterproofed copy of my gear inventory list in every kit. This way, in a panic I can go over what I have to address the situation without dumping all of my stuff out.

[mk_ultra]

Preach on Brother .

Good on you for taking the time to share . I am sure it is going to be very useful to a lot of folks .

You have inspired me to get off my ass and finally do a complete gear tear down and write up for ZS . I just re-packed the BoBs , but them's the breaks .

[The Highwayman]

Arch-

Great post (as usual) and wonderful insight into your background. I really appreciate you going thru the time it took for you to put together not only your lists, but also (and more importantly) the theory behind your choices, as well as the evolution of your prepardness mindset. I, like you, have had an ever-evolving thought process on gear- what it's needed for, what type and amount, as well as what kinds/brands, versus what are actually needs or wants, and what is allowed for in my budget.

I am actually honored to call you a friend, and like a very few here, am glad that I have gotten to know you and have gladly learned from your experiences (both the positive ones as well as the "mistakes" ). I only wish I have positively impacted maybe 1/100th the amount of folks that you have.

So, to end the asskissing ( ) on this note- thanks for once again adding a very helpful and informative post, as well as taking the time to make it very clear and concise. Way to go man! If in the future there is ever anything at all I can help you out with, Don't hesitate to ask. It would be an honor and my pleasure. Take care buddy!


DTOM

[northernxposure]

Great post, Arch. I know it's tough when them heavy weights (Woods Walker and Mags) post a gear list that makes most of us just drool, but it's refreshing to see another path that others can head down if they want too.

Hope this stays around, someone should put Mag's, WW's, and this one in a sort of "uber pack" thread so they don't get lost in the 1's and 0's running around the site.


NXP

[Arch]

MK Ultra - I'm looking forward to seeing your thread when you get around to it. You and I discuss a lot of prep issues in private, but I've never really had a chance to "see" your prep's. I'm curious, because you're one of the "all of what you need - none of what you don't" people on ZS that keeps me in line. I thoroughly enjoy bouncing my ideas off of you, because you're one of the few people on here that speaks from experience.

I'll keep preachin' as long as you do too!

DTOM - Wow .

Without your assistance, I wouldn't have been able to put together my medical gear. That's one area I had always neglected, but after joining ZS and reading your posts - I felt woefully under prepared and started my FAK process. Now, with much informational and material help from you I'm vastly more medically prepared than ever before.

I met a fellow ZS'r in person last week, and told him that you and MK Ultra were both people that I call "friend". That might seem trivial to some, but those who know me will understand the significance of that.

Thank you again - I sincerely appreciate the kind words .

northernxposure - I too hope this stays around. Not for my gratification, but because of the positive responses its received. I just feel we have preciously little time to waste, and if threads like this can save people some of that time and some of their money...then I'm glad to invest myself in this way.

[oolelandoo]

Excellent post. Bravo.

[Blackdog]

Thanks for the work and the insight. My only comment is that you for sure have made educated choices driven by experience but as someone who has lived and worked long term in both the old school Military and civilian versions of cold/wet weather gear I can 100% say I prefer the appropriate civilian versions for the weight reduction, packability, function and in many cases hard use wear. I can't tell you how many Military goretex parkas I went thru and f--ked up real good but I can tell you I have been treating a Marmot Alpinist goretex parka poorly for just over a decade now with no complaints.

The cost of the items may or may not figure into the equation as the Mil version may or may not cost more than the civ version depending on your shopping/research skills and interest in running down good functional gear. If camo is a concern, many items come in good subdued colors or (as one example) the Patagonia MARS line of clothing are civilian models manufactured in Military colors.

I am not in anyway dissing (is that a word?) your gear or choices only pointing out to anyone who wanders by and bothers to read your excellent post that there are many (in my mind anyway) superior options to old school Military cold/wet gear and I urge people to investigate the different options, make their own choices (and then go bang on their gear often and repeatedly to make sure it works for them).

RLTW