You know, I added the damn binoculars after your last post but forgot to update the list. I am afraid to weight the kit. at the moment I can carry it, but if I knew for sure it weighed say 70 pounds, that would eat at my mind
- Status
You know, I added the damn binoculars after your last post but forgot to update the list. I am afraid to weight the kit. at the moment I can carry it, but if I knew for sure it weighed say 70 pounds, that would eat at my mind
Okay, I have to go run and do some drywall repair for a friend but when I get back tonight, I'm putting the sticky together. Oh, and I've heard the same thing about tampons from former field meds but who knows. 
It took me a while to read through that, but now I'm really depressed. I've got a long way to go. 
I really think that is an amazing set-up. Not much more to say than that.
I really think that is an amazing set-up. Not much more to say than that.
Well finally got most of the stuff together so here goes.
First, lets break down the type of bags- as I call them.
EDC- Every Day Carry bag. This is a small bag or pouch that has basic items in it. Things like maybe a fire striker, water tabs, emergency blanket, Knife etc. The very basic survival items. Personally, I dont carry one.
Disaster Bag- This is a bag that you have ready to go at a moments notice. Things in this bag are personal IDs, food, water, entertainment items etc. This is a bag you would use if you had to evacuate your home and go to a shelter. Water purification, fire starting and shelter building are not needed in this bag. Things to occupy your time, snack foods, water, important papers etc. This is not really a survival bag.
BOB- Bug Out Bag. My definition of a BOB, is a bag that is well packed with basic survival gear, but for temporary use. Basically a bag that will get you from point A to point B, quickly and safely. Generally its packed for 72 hours use. You should have 3 days of food, 3 days of water, basic shelter, fire making capabilities, good survival knife etc. Its a temp bag to get you to a new location where you have items already stored and ready for use.
SHTF Bag- This is my personal favorite, and the one I pack. This bag is packed wit all the gear you would need to leave your home or permanent shelter location, and go live, day to day. This bag is packed with basically all you can comfortably carry.
Now that the basic definitions are done, lets get to the bag and items.
BAGS AND POUCHES:
I have gone through a couple different style bags, trying to find the perfect bag. For me, I ended up with a Tac-Force Ruck Sack Back Pack. Its large, its adjustable, it is covered in molle webbing allowing total customization.
The basic Tac Force comes with the main pack, 2- zip off side pouches, 1- zip off top pouch, sternum straps and waist belt. between the main pack and zip off side pouches, there is room to mount and carry 2 rifles. Instead of using the supplied molle straps that velcro the guns into place, I added a molle shotgun scabbard, and used the molle system to attach it to the left side. On top of the scabbard, I added a sheath that holds the Katana Machete. The whole thing mounts to the pack, and then the side pouches get zipped on, sandwiching the scabbard.
In addition to the zippers for the side pouches, all pouches have a secondary quick clip system as well. If you had to unzip the pouches, the quick clips would keep the pouches attached to the pack. This is good in case you have a zipper failure in the field.
To balance the pack, on the other side, I used the supplied gun straps to mount my tomahawk and shovel as well as my back up knife.
On the center of the main pack, on the top smaller pouch, I added a molle deployment bag which I use to hold my entire first aid kit. The deployment bag has many pockets to keep the first aid items organized.
On the bottom pouch of the main pack, I added a molle buttpack using the molle web system. The buttpack has one large main pocket, 3 side pockets and 2 zippered top pockets for smaller items.
On the waist belt I have added a molle gadget pouch, a molle canteen cover, and my main fixed blade knife. I also added 2 drop leg holsters, one on each side.
The holsters I picked have the main drop, as well as a secondary drop to keep the holster balanced. On each platform there is a main holster with extra mag pouch, another mag pouch and a small pouch that I use to carry my compass.
To help keep the waist pack up and secure, I have added to adjustable straps that go from the sternum strap to the waist belt. This makes the entire system really solid when completely loaded.
Thats my complete bag and carry system. A bag of this size is not needed, but for me, it works perfectly. I do have a smaller molle back pack that i used at first, and it would make a great BOB, but it was just too small for a SHTF bag.
I also, have some extra room and empty pouches on the pack that I plan on using if I come across any items to scavenge. There is enough room left to carry any food I might come across.
Main Tac Force Back Pack:
Side pouches:
Top pouch:
Extra Molle Pouches:
Drop Leg Holsters:
Front of pack with extra straps and flashlight holders:
WATER:
For water, I have a canteen, 3L water bladder, purification tablets, canteen cup, canteen stove for cooking and to purify water and a lid for the cup.
Water tabs do have a use by date, so make sure for long term use, you have a way to boil water to purify.
FIRE:
For fire, I have a couple fire rods, some bic lighters and I always have my zippo on me. Eventually fuel will run out for the zippo though. For tinder, I have some petrolium jelly soaked cotton balls and some char cloth.
I may or may not add a fire piston. I am pretty good at starting a fire with the fire rods, especially when I have some good tinder. Youtube is loaded with videos showing you how to do it.
Once you get your fire rods, take time to practice with them. They will do you no good if youdont know how to use them when you really need them.
SHELTER:
The third most important item for survival is shelter.
For basic shelter, I have a military poncho and poncho liner. These can be used to make shelter and keep warm. I also have a 3 part sleeping bag system. The system has 2 sleeping bags that can either be used independently or one inserted into the other for more warmth. The third part is a military Bivy Bag. this is basically a waterproof skin that the sleeping bags go into. Using all 3 pieces you can lay on the ground, even if its wet, and stay warm and dry.
Instead of a tent, I decided to go with a Hennessy hammock. This hammock is both a hammock as well as a tent. I also added 4 rapel rings and 2 carabiners to make set up of the tent less than a minute.
The Hennessy Hammock: YouTube - Hennessy Hammock 101, the definitive guide, all the tips you need to know for setup and use.
Hennessy Hammock Quick set up: YouTube - hennessy hammock ultra fast set up technique, easy, adjustable and great tension!
Sleeping bags, stuff sacks and hammock:
FOOD/PREP:
The food I have packed now is basically for camping. If I was going into a SHTF situation, I would rather have high calorie bars instead of the low cal cereal bars I am currently packing, but you get the idea.
The food packs into 3 different ziplock bags and the Spam and seasonings and stuff are in another ziplock.
6 tuna pouches
3 cans of spam
3 uncle bens rices
6 oatmeal packs
3 trail mix packs
6 cereal bars
9 granola bars
9 coffee bags
3 tea bags
6 instant coffee packs
9 orange drink mixes
6 hot chocolate
24 chicken bouillon cubes
3- dual spice, shakers
creamer
splenda packs
I also have a 7 piece mess kit, but this could easily be dumped at any time as long as I have the canteen stove and cup.
CLOTHING:
For clothes, I probably pack more than most. The shirts I packed are long sleeve and can be cut if need be. I also have a pair of lineman boots that I will be using. Make sure if you get a set of boots, go ahead and get them broke in before packing away to use for buggin out. More than likely, I will have a second pair of boots tied to the pack somewhere.
PROTECTION/SELF DEFENSE/TOOLS:
This is the category that I have way too much stuff packed. I have thinned down the items some, but still have:
2 XD45's, 6 magazines, Ruger 10/22 with 6 magazines, pistol bayonets, GI Tanto fixed blade, CRKT fixed blade, CRKT Zillatool, Gerber Gator folding knife, Cold Steel Tomahawk, Cold Steel survival shovel, Gerber EAB Knife, Cold Steel 2 handed Katana Machete, fishing pole, lures, auto hook setter, gun cleaning kit and knife sharpeners. I also have a couple super bright LED flashlights. I also have a compass and binoculars.
FIRST AID:
1" Adhesive Bandage (30)
3/4" Adhesive Bandage (75)
1/4" Adhesive Bandage (50)
Small Adhesive Butterflies (3)
1 1/4" x 1 1/4" Adhesive bandage (1)
2" x 4" Adhesive Bandage (1)
1" Fabric Bandage (10)
3/4" Fabric Bandage (20)
"H" Fabric Bandage (4)
Knuckle Fabric Bandage (4)
5" x 9" Trauma Pad (1)
4" x 4" Sterile Pad (1)
3" x 3" Sterile Pad (2)
2' x 2" Sterile Pad (3)
Sterile Eye Pad (1)
Alcohol Towelettes (16)
BZK Towelettes (15)
Insect Sting Relief (3)
Cold Compress (1)
Single Use Thermometer (1)
Burn Cream (2)
Non Aspirin Tabs (6)
Aspirin Tabs (6)
Ibuprofen (6)
Anti-Biotic Ointment (6)
Wood Finger Splints (2)
Cotton Swabs (10)
Adhesive Tape (2)
Exam Gloves (4)
Emergency Blanket (1)
Scissors (1)
Hemostats (1)
Sterile Roll (1)
Tweezers (1)
Skin Sheild Liquid Bandage (1)
Anti-Biotic Cream + Pain Relief (1)
Tums (3)
Super Glue (2)
Hand Sanitizer (1)
Medicated Blistex (1)
Fabric Strips (3)
Tooth Ache Medicine (2)
40 page Survival booklet (1)
Snake Bite Kit (7)
Alcohol Bottles (2)
Carry Bag (1)
HYGIENE/MISC:
Hygiene items will run out quickly, but at least for the first little while you will feel human.
Misc items include paracord, duct tape, reading glasses, solar charger, extra batteries, 4 darwins, e-juice, sewing kit, zip ties, zip locks, large black garbage bags, extra driver bits (zillatool uses standard 1/4" hex bits).
Whats missing from the pack, but on order is a hand crank flashlight, and charger adapters for the solar charger to charge the flash light batteries. I am also considering adding a small book about edible and healing plants.
I will also get a couple pics of the back pack fully packed and ready to go.
First, lets break down the type of bags- as I call them.
EDC- Every Day Carry bag. This is a small bag or pouch that has basic items in it. Things like maybe a fire striker, water tabs, emergency blanket, Knife etc. The very basic survival items. Personally, I dont carry one.
Disaster Bag- This is a bag that you have ready to go at a moments notice. Things in this bag are personal IDs, food, water, entertainment items etc. This is a bag you would use if you had to evacuate your home and go to a shelter. Water purification, fire starting and shelter building are not needed in this bag. Things to occupy your time, snack foods, water, important papers etc. This is not really a survival bag.
BOB- Bug Out Bag. My definition of a BOB, is a bag that is well packed with basic survival gear, but for temporary use. Basically a bag that will get you from point A to point B, quickly and safely. Generally its packed for 72 hours use. You should have 3 days of food, 3 days of water, basic shelter, fire making capabilities, good survival knife etc. Its a temp bag to get you to a new location where you have items already stored and ready for use.
SHTF Bag- This is my personal favorite, and the one I pack. This bag is packed wit all the gear you would need to leave your home or permanent shelter location, and go live, day to day. This bag is packed with basically all you can comfortably carry.
Now that the basic definitions are done, lets get to the bag and items.
BAGS AND POUCHES:
I have gone through a couple different style bags, trying to find the perfect bag. For me, I ended up with a Tac-Force Ruck Sack Back Pack. Its large, its adjustable, it is covered in molle webbing allowing total customization.
The basic Tac Force comes with the main pack, 2- zip off side pouches, 1- zip off top pouch, sternum straps and waist belt. between the main pack and zip off side pouches, there is room to mount and carry 2 rifles. Instead of using the supplied molle straps that velcro the guns into place, I added a molle shotgun scabbard, and used the molle system to attach it to the left side. On top of the scabbard, I added a sheath that holds the Katana Machete. The whole thing mounts to the pack, and then the side pouches get zipped on, sandwiching the scabbard.
In addition to the zippers for the side pouches, all pouches have a secondary quick clip system as well. If you had to unzip the pouches, the quick clips would keep the pouches attached to the pack. This is good in case you have a zipper failure in the field.
To balance the pack, on the other side, I used the supplied gun straps to mount my tomahawk and shovel as well as my back up knife.
On the center of the main pack, on the top smaller pouch, I added a molle deployment bag which I use to hold my entire first aid kit. The deployment bag has many pockets to keep the first aid items organized.
On the bottom pouch of the main pack, I added a molle buttpack using the molle web system. The buttpack has one large main pocket, 3 side pockets and 2 zippered top pockets for smaller items.
On the waist belt I have added a molle gadget pouch, a molle canteen cover, and my main fixed blade knife. I also added 2 drop leg holsters, one on each side.
The holsters I picked have the main drop, as well as a secondary drop to keep the holster balanced. On each platform there is a main holster with extra mag pouch, another mag pouch and a small pouch that I use to carry my compass.
To help keep the waist pack up and secure, I have added to adjustable straps that go from the sternum strap to the waist belt. This makes the entire system really solid when completely loaded.
Thats my complete bag and carry system. A bag of this size is not needed, but for me, it works perfectly. I do have a smaller molle back pack that i used at first, and it would make a great BOB, but it was just too small for a SHTF bag.
I also, have some extra room and empty pouches on the pack that I plan on using if I come across any items to scavenge. There is enough room left to carry any food I might come across.
Main Tac Force Back Pack:
Side pouches:
Top pouch:
Extra Molle Pouches:
Drop Leg Holsters:
Front of pack with extra straps and flashlight holders:
WATER:
For water, I have a canteen, 3L water bladder, purification tablets, canteen cup, canteen stove for cooking and to purify water and a lid for the cup.
Water tabs do have a use by date, so make sure for long term use, you have a way to boil water to purify.
FIRE:
For fire, I have a couple fire rods, some bic lighters and I always have my zippo on me. Eventually fuel will run out for the zippo though. For tinder, I have some petrolium jelly soaked cotton balls and some char cloth.
I may or may not add a fire piston. I am pretty good at starting a fire with the fire rods, especially when I have some good tinder. Youtube is loaded with videos showing you how to do it.
Once you get your fire rods, take time to practice with them. They will do you no good if youdont know how to use them when you really need them.
SHELTER:
The third most important item for survival is shelter.
For basic shelter, I have a military poncho and poncho liner. These can be used to make shelter and keep warm. I also have a 3 part sleeping bag system. The system has 2 sleeping bags that can either be used independently or one inserted into the other for more warmth. The third part is a military Bivy Bag. this is basically a waterproof skin that the sleeping bags go into. Using all 3 pieces you can lay on the ground, even if its wet, and stay warm and dry.
Instead of a tent, I decided to go with a Hennessy hammock. This hammock is both a hammock as well as a tent. I also added 4 rapel rings and 2 carabiners to make set up of the tent less than a minute.
The Hennessy Hammock: YouTube - Hennessy Hammock 101, the definitive guide, all the tips you need to know for setup and use.
Hennessy Hammock Quick set up: YouTube - hennessy hammock ultra fast set up technique, easy, adjustable and great tension!
Sleeping bags, stuff sacks and hammock:
FOOD/PREP:
The food I have packed now is basically for camping. If I was going into a SHTF situation, I would rather have high calorie bars instead of the low cal cereal bars I am currently packing, but you get the idea.
The food packs into 3 different ziplock bags and the Spam and seasonings and stuff are in another ziplock.
6 tuna pouches
3 cans of spam
3 uncle bens rices
6 oatmeal packs
3 trail mix packs
6 cereal bars
9 granola bars
9 coffee bags
3 tea bags
6 instant coffee packs
9 orange drink mixes
6 hot chocolate
24 chicken bouillon cubes
3- dual spice, shakers
creamer
splenda packs
I also have a 7 piece mess kit, but this could easily be dumped at any time as long as I have the canteen stove and cup.
CLOTHING:
For clothes, I probably pack more than most. The shirts I packed are long sleeve and can be cut if need be. I also have a pair of lineman boots that I will be using. Make sure if you get a set of boots, go ahead and get them broke in before packing away to use for buggin out. More than likely, I will have a second pair of boots tied to the pack somewhere.
PROTECTION/SELF DEFENSE/TOOLS:
This is the category that I have way too much stuff packed. I have thinned down the items some, but still have:
2 XD45's, 6 magazines, Ruger 10/22 with 6 magazines, pistol bayonets, GI Tanto fixed blade, CRKT fixed blade, CRKT Zillatool, Gerber Gator folding knife, Cold Steel Tomahawk, Cold Steel survival shovel, Gerber EAB Knife, Cold Steel 2 handed Katana Machete, fishing pole, lures, auto hook setter, gun cleaning kit and knife sharpeners. I also have a couple super bright LED flashlights. I also have a compass and binoculars.
FIRST AID:
1" Adhesive Bandage (30)
3/4" Adhesive Bandage (75)
1/4" Adhesive Bandage (50)
Small Adhesive Butterflies (3)
1 1/4" x 1 1/4" Adhesive bandage (1)
2" x 4" Adhesive Bandage (1)
1" Fabric Bandage (10)
3/4" Fabric Bandage (20)
"H" Fabric Bandage (4)
Knuckle Fabric Bandage (4)
5" x 9" Trauma Pad (1)
4" x 4" Sterile Pad (1)
3" x 3" Sterile Pad (2)
2' x 2" Sterile Pad (3)
Sterile Eye Pad (1)
Alcohol Towelettes (16)
BZK Towelettes (15)
Insect Sting Relief (3)
Cold Compress (1)
Single Use Thermometer (1)
Burn Cream (2)
Non Aspirin Tabs (6)
Aspirin Tabs (6)
Ibuprofen (6)
Anti-Biotic Ointment (6)
Wood Finger Splints (2)
Cotton Swabs (10)
Adhesive Tape (2)
Exam Gloves (4)
Emergency Blanket (1)
Scissors (1)
Hemostats (1)
Sterile Roll (1)
Tweezers (1)
Skin Sheild Liquid Bandage (1)
Anti-Biotic Cream + Pain Relief (1)
Tums (3)
Super Glue (2)
Hand Sanitizer (1)
Medicated Blistex (1)
Fabric Strips (3)
Tooth Ache Medicine (2)
40 page Survival booklet (1)
Snake Bite Kit (7)
Alcohol Bottles (2)
Carry Bag (1)
HYGIENE/MISC:
Hygiene items will run out quickly, but at least for the first little while you will feel human.
Misc items include paracord, duct tape, reading glasses, solar charger, extra batteries, 4 darwins, e-juice, sewing kit, zip ties, zip locks, large black garbage bags, extra driver bits (zillatool uses standard 1/4" hex bits).
Whats missing from the pack, but on order is a hand crank flashlight, and charger adapters for the solar charger to charge the flash light batteries. I am also considering adding a small book about edible and healing plants.
I will also get a couple pics of the back pack fully packed and ready to go.
Back in the gang days, a couple of the guys used to carry tampons for any bullet wounds. Dont know that anyone ever used them for that, but they carried them. I always said it was a crap excuse and that they were just carrying their ole ladies things and had to come up with a manly answer.
heres some pics of the kit all assembled:
Took longer than anticipated to do the drywall since it was wet... Anyhow, the two posts have been copied, moved and locked down for all future needs in it's own little time capsule for future generations of zombie survivors.
ummm...i hate to be picky..but where are the vaping supplies? (did i miss them? i am so not going to survive)
Yeah i forgot to mention the juices, but it is guaranteed, I will have a supply of VaporBomb juices.
Heres my Darwins, so far: (top to bottom)
Blue "MUTT" Darwin
"Darwin" engraved Black final version
Unsigned Black final version
Smooth finish Darwin
And my very owned, locked down, permanebt sticky???? SA-WEET!!
Heres my Darwins, so far: (top to bottom)
Blue "MUTT" Darwin
"Darwin" engraved Black final version
Unsigned Black final version
Smooth finish Darwin
And my very owned, locked down, permanebt sticky???? SA-WEET!!
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I'm pretty sure all of those darwins will add significantly to the weight of the BOB...want i should carry one or two of them for ya?
(the final BOB thread is great!)
(the final BOB thread is great!)
I just opened up my Amazon shopping list to sort through and compare prices from my saved list, and I just realized that I have this pack in my saved list. (Amazon.com: TAC Force Ruck Sack Back Pack: Sports & Outdoors) Sweet! I couldn't find any reviews, videos, or actual "in-use" pictures, so I saved it for research. I believe you may have the only photos of it, of this type, on the net. I'm really glad you did this!
I just played with, and tried on, this pack today. Eberlestock Skycrane II I really like it's versatility based on the video at the bottom of the page. It's no where near the storage capacity of the TAC Force pack though. This is also, probably the first time I've seen something cost more online than in the store. It had a tag of $329 in the store, but is listed at $489 online.
I couldn't find any reviews, videos, or actual "in-use" pictures, so I saved it for research. I believe you may have the only photos of it, of this type, on the net. I'm really glad you did this!I just played with, and tried on, this pack today. Eberlestock Skycrane II I really like it's versatility based on the video at the bottom of the page. It's no where near the storage capacity of the TAC Force pack though. This is also, probably the first time I've seen something cost more online than in the store. It had a tag of $329 in the store, but is listed at $489 online.
Eberlestock makes really good quality packs, so you cant go wrong there. I ended up buying my Tac Force from Amazon. I found it in a couple other places like tactical gear - tacforce ruck sack back pack black - s86129 but every time you try to add to cart, it says 0 in stock. I emailed them and they have no plans on restocking.
If you need more pics of the tac force, let me know. Between the main sack and the zip off pouches, there is a LOT of molle webbing and the pack comes with 4 molle type pieces that have velcro on the front. I am assuming the pieces of velcro are used to wrap your gun to keep it in place. I use the velcro pieces to hold my shovel and hatchet.
I went with the gun scabbard, for 2 reasons, 1 was because I already had it and the second is because it makes getting the gun much easier. You literally just pull the gun out vs having to unzip your pouch, unvelcro your gun etc. The down side to it is that the gun is in plain sight. Also, you can not use any optics and use the gun scabbard.
I have been considering using my little single shot Crickett 22 instead of the AMT or Ruger. The Crickett is a short little gun made for kids. Its a single shot. But it weighs almost nothing. Perfect for survival hunting, not so good for defense. My 22 is basically going to be used for hunting, so I might just end up using it instead. YouTube - Crickett Rifles for Youth and Small Frame Shooters at PersonalSecurityZone.com
You can pick them up new here at Wal-mart for $100. They have tons of accessories for them.
I highly recommend the Tac Force. I probably have enough room in the Tac Force for everything I pack without the use of the extra bags and pouches. The only reason I use the extra pouches is to make organization easier. The main part of the Tac Force is just a ruck sack, which as you know is just a big open bag. Under the main ruck is another built in zippered pouch that is big enough for me to stuff with my extra clothes. Besides the 3 zip off pouches, there is also 2 more built in pouches on the back side of the pack, one smaller one up top and a larger one underneath it. There are lots of adjustable quick clip straps to keep your load tight.
Another thing to keep in mind, where I live and where I am buggin out to, I dont have to be fast. I am in a very rural area, so speed is not a factor. If you are in a highly populated area, or you have to be very mobile, the set up I have will NOT work for you. Its too big and heavy.
With the death of Bin Laden, I am pretty sure that that did nothing but set us up for another attack here in the USA. So, get out there and get prepared. Its better to be prepared and never need this stuff, than to need it and not be prepared.
If you need more pics of the tac force, let me know. Between the main sack and the zip off pouches, there is a LOT of molle webbing and the pack comes with 4 molle type pieces that have velcro on the front. I am assuming the pieces of velcro are used to wrap your gun to keep it in place. I use the velcro pieces to hold my shovel and hatchet.
I went with the gun scabbard, for 2 reasons, 1 was because I already had it and the second is because it makes getting the gun much easier. You literally just pull the gun out vs having to unzip your pouch, unvelcro your gun etc. The down side to it is that the gun is in plain sight. Also, you can not use any optics and use the gun scabbard.
I have been considering using my little single shot Crickett 22 instead of the AMT or Ruger. The Crickett is a short little gun made for kids. Its a single shot. But it weighs almost nothing. Perfect for survival hunting, not so good for defense. My 22 is basically going to be used for hunting, so I might just end up using it instead. YouTube - Crickett Rifles for Youth and Small Frame Shooters at PersonalSecurityZone.com
You can pick them up new here at Wal-mart for $100. They have tons of accessories for them.
I highly recommend the Tac Force. I probably have enough room in the Tac Force for everything I pack without the use of the extra bags and pouches. The only reason I use the extra pouches is to make organization easier. The main part of the Tac Force is just a ruck sack, which as you know is just a big open bag. Under the main ruck is another built in zippered pouch that is big enough for me to stuff with my extra clothes. Besides the 3 zip off pouches, there is also 2 more built in pouches on the back side of the pack, one smaller one up top and a larger one underneath it. There are lots of adjustable quick clip straps to keep your load tight.
Another thing to keep in mind, where I live and where I am buggin out to, I dont have to be fast. I am in a very rural area, so speed is not a factor. If you are in a highly populated area, or you have to be very mobile, the set up I have will NOT work for you. Its too big and heavy.
With the death of Bin Laden, I am pretty sure that that did nothing but set us up for another attack here in the USA. So, get out there and get prepared. Its better to be prepared and never need this stuff, than to need it and not be prepared.
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Everybody knows that feeling . . . you're a couple miles away from home and, S**T! You forgot to grab ____. Turn around, get it, now you're late. Multiply that times . . . you're life depends on it, and you can't go back for it.
After watching the videos on that Eberlestock site, and reading through a couple hours worth of reviews of those and other packs, I think I'm going to keep the miscellaneous bags I have for now, and save for that Skycrane II pack and some accessories. I really like the versatility of it. I'm not going to be in a big hurry, but my current set-up has 3 separate packs that I can pull the essentials out of if I need to get moving quickly, so that pack will emulate my style well. I only wish I could find it at some discount site for a little less.
For the rifle, I'm currently bringing my SKS because it's got the folding stock and will save space vs weight. Plus, Eberlestock has a stealth sheath that will conceal the rifle so that nobody you would come across would even know you're armed. I'm really thinking that I'll end up with an AR7 for the small bag if I've got to get going.
As for getting out there and getting prepared, my boys are excited about getting out on a couple weekend trips using just what we can carry. I'm sure this will really help shape and define what goes in the bag, and where. I'm sure we'll do a couple back yarders too. We've avoided that in the past because they were afraid of the coyotes, snunks, and other critters that wander through our yard, but they're older now and I think they're more past the fear.
Alright Mutt and crew,
Fishing is probably going to be a great way of adding protein and calories with the advantage of being quiet and cheap. I don't fish, I dunno nuttin about fishing, I've fished maybe 8 times as a kid. What items do I need in my bag to snag me some food. I live around a million lakes full of ummmmm...fish? I see people fishing at a river near my place also. You clearly have some fishing stuff packed but didn't mention what we need - and I'mma need specifics, test line strength and all that jazz. I'd like to be able to either cast from shore or even better, a passive system that I can check once a day that can be hidden.
Fishing is probably going to be a great way of adding protein and calories with the advantage of being quiet and cheap. I don't fish, I dunno nuttin about fishing, I've fished maybe 8 times as a kid. What items do I need in my bag to snag me some food. I live around a million lakes full of ummmmm...fish? I see people fishing at a river near my place also. You clearly have some fishing stuff packed but didn't mention what we need - and I'mma need specifics, test line strength and all that jazz. I'd like to be able to either cast from shore or even better, a passive system that I can check once a day that can be hidden.
The basics- just some line, assortment of hooks, sinkers, bobbers etc. Keep your hooks kind of small to medium sized. A large fish can be caught on a smaller hook, but its almost impossible to catch a small fish on a large hook. (I said almost impossible).
As far as bait, if you are near water, you have plenty of bait. Look for worms, grasshoppers, any live insect. You can buy a small kit that has jelly lures for cheap (like in my kit), but I would stick to the live insects.
They make "automatic" fish lines: NEW AUTO FISHING REEL YO YO SURVIVAL REELS with1/0 HOOK | eBay With these, you pull the line out and set the trigger. If you get a nibble, then it trips the trigger and a spring sets the hook. The good thing with these is that you can set a half dozen of them, go do other chores and come back and see if you have any fish on the line. The downside to these is that I have never seen one with a decent enough spring to actually keep the fish hooked.
I have an automatic hook setter that uses the rod as a spring. Its just a little plastic pices that you bend your rod tip and place the trigger on the end. If you get a nibble, then the rod acts as a spring to set the hook. Again, I wouldnt trust it for a long length of time between checking on it, but it looks like it will work pretty well: YouTube - The Quickset
YouTube - The Quickset - Set Up
But to answer your question quickly. you just need a line, couple sinkers, and a hook or 2.
As far as bait, if you are near water, you have plenty of bait. Look for worms, grasshoppers, any live insect. You can buy a small kit that has jelly lures for cheap (like in my kit), but I would stick to the live insects.
They make "automatic" fish lines: NEW AUTO FISHING REEL YO YO SURVIVAL REELS with1/0 HOOK | eBay With these, you pull the line out and set the trigger. If you get a nibble, then it trips the trigger and a spring sets the hook. The good thing with these is that you can set a half dozen of them, go do other chores and come back and see if you have any fish on the line. The downside to these is that I have never seen one with a decent enough spring to actually keep the fish hooked.
I have an automatic hook setter that uses the rod as a spring. Its just a little plastic pices that you bend your rod tip and place the trigger on the end. If you get a nibble, then the rod acts as a spring to set the hook. Again, I wouldnt trust it for a long length of time between checking on it, but it looks like it will work pretty well: YouTube - The Quickset
YouTube - The Quickset - Set Up
But to answer your question quickly. you just need a line, couple sinkers, and a hook or 2.
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