B.O.B. (Bug Out Bags)

Whats everyone got ready for when the balloon goes up? <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

I've got my BOB in the back of my AWD Ford Explorer - ready to go anywhere. In the Bag itself (Kelty Super Tioga, 7 day frame pack), I have a Cold Steel Bushman, a few MRE's, a 0 degree sleeping bag, warm clothes, first aid stuff (plenty), water purification tabs, lots of fire starting gear (flint,steel, dryer lint, fire past, starer sticks, magnifying glass, waterproof matches in waterproof holders), pocket saw, plenty of 550 cord, a few quarts of water, mosquito net, deet, compass, GPS, fishing line and hooks (all sizes, and some big trebble hooks incase I want to throw a line across a creek and just snag fish), couple cans of chew <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />, plastic sheeting (for water proofing or water collection), gloves and hat, neon yellow fleece shirt and safety orange tape (set up landmarks/checkpoints or to be seen from the air), snakebite kit, Army FM-21-76 (survival manual), mirror, 4 candles, 3D maglite with change of batteries, 2 15minute flares..... I'm sure I'm forgetting some things!

In my Explorer: I've also got a (7?) gallon jug of water, a Coleman tent (4 man, as the family is with me), a cheap Machette, my Ontario RTAK II, Dumpster Mutt, an Ontario RAT5, a CS Voyager, wool blankets, 2 pairs of boots, socks, an LCE with more water and set up w/ 2 big ammo pouches (one with a fire kit, one w/ miscelanious stuff) and a butt pack - which is what I'd use for a short daypack, if I needed to leave camp for any reason and would be back. I'd definately grab up the "Arms," of which I would take my AR15 (heavy "sniper" barrel, and my M4 barrel is on the way) and my Colt 1911 series 80 .45, my Glock 9mm, and the S&W .38spl (everyone armed, ok!!). I've been nagging the wife to get some extra boots and warm clothes in the car too, which I'm going to make her do pretty soon here <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

If I remember other things, I'll just edit and add them.

I used to have it all in a box in my Jeep. I guess I need a new bag, hurricane season is near and i'm not going into the Mexican shelters. It was a nightmare last time. I'm heading for high ground, armed, dangerous, and off my medication.

'Atta boy Vic!!! I really like my Kelty pack - check 'em out!

I've got three basic set ups really. The first is my Get Home Bag which centers around my Maxpedition Jumbo Versi pack.

The second is a sheeple friendly bag. It's my backpacking pack. And for all intensive purposes it really doesn't differ from what I might normally carry when backpacking excepts for a few things such as a hand gun, hatchet etc....

lastly, is my going down fighting set up. I've set this one up according to lines, 1st line, second line, and 3rd line. This is what I'll resort to if I don't have to worry about discretion or society returning to normal. It emphasizes the basics and relies heavily on wilderness skills.

i'll postt contents of my bags later.

Good idea on the multiple setups. I'm going to get an assault kit ready when I get my M4 upper here for my AR15. I'll probably get a differnet day pack and use my LCE set up. Its got mag pouches for 6x30rnd mags, the Butt Pack for some energy food and other accessories, 2 1qt. canteens, I'd probably lash the Yard Guard to it, and I'd carry my 1911 in a shoulder holster underneath of it. I'll probably get an assault vest w/ pockets for the other odds and ends too!

72 hours is the key. My assault set up relies on wilderness and living off the land skills. Datrex energy bars are used to get me away from the danger.

I like the different setups too Jerrwhy. I have also pondered the amount of weight of guns and ammo with the "no discretion needed" setup. I am considering going to firearms that can handle two calibers, such as .38/.357 rifle. A Glock with a couple of barrels. I considered adding a .308, but I can carry a lot more .223 ammo in the same space. Same goes for knives, which is how I ended up here in the first place. I figured the S6 was big enough to work, small enough to hike with and affordable enough to get a couple. PC is a factor, a lever action will get a lot less attention than a 16" Bushmaster, S6 less than the DF.

My basic philosophy is this. If I have to take up my long arms, then it really doesn't matter who the heck sees them. I tend to favor a lite is right approach. You can only carry so much for so long, then there comes a point where you have to look at the land to sustain you. The food is just there to provide a margin of comfort and give you some time to get away before you look to mother nature.

I like the Lever action approach in .357 magnum. That way you can run a 6 inch wheel gun as well. Then you can direct your efforts at acquiring the same basic ammunition.

Good points. I guess its all a pro/con. In New Orleans a .223 might have been nice to reach out and touch some of the thugs. .357 is more flexible for ammo, I guess if its long gun time the stuff has hit the fan anyways. .357 is nothing to sneeze at in a caribine either. Next to that water is probably the most important.

In my sheeple friendly BOB I carry my sig 229. It's discrete and carries well. However, I can also easily hold either my Ruger MKIII hunter or fold up my Springfield M6 scout rifle. I like the option of carrying along a .22 for getting game.

And the either the MkIII or the M6 is definately comming with in the fighting kit.

Great choices, .22 ammo is plentiful and efficient. My Bushmaster fits into my BOB with the pins out, about 30 secs to ready to go. I have a Marlin 39A lever that takes down nicely as well (wife can huck that one). SW 66 and SW P99 round out the hand cannons. MK111 is one Santa (and the state of MA) have denied for awhile. Camelbacks for both and some of the usual gear, knives is where I came up short. I have a Ka-Bar, nice knife, lousy chopper,clearly not in the same catagory as a Dog from a toughness standpoint.

Gerber folding saw, first aid stuff, folding solar panel, rechargable AA bats, GPS, phone charger (works with AA). Time to outfit the kids (4 year old can carry something!).

Have him cary extra ammo it is not too heavy.







wait, no, cancle that, lead is heavy.

48 hour notice has been posted on the other forum.

In the car I got a CS shovel, hachet, wool blancket, 2d Maglite with more batteries, matches, duct tape, water (I need to add more), Glock field knife, bungie cords, rope, first aid kit, radio, trash bags, wistle, and that is all I can think of right now. but the whole Kit is in a simple (cheap)canvas duffel bag. my home kit is in the works now but thus far includes a Marlin .22 my dogfather and howling rat XD in .45acp surefire, compass, matches and lighters, but needs more work (time and $$$)

Ahhhh, Where to begin. In my F-350 Diesel (oh yea) I have a Kel-tech sub 40 with 30 rounds, 100' 0f climb line, a 40' chain, enough energy bars for a couple days and some candy (high sugar is good for quick energy), chap stick, rain gear and sweatshirt, rat3, DM, charging cords for phone, and few bottles of water. Aside from that I carry my Maxpedition bag With a Glock 27, extra mag, 2 rolls of life savers, 20 feet of paracord, a pen, 2 small flashlights, (one is a fenix the other is a wolf eyes with impact bezel), and a H1 spyderco full serrated blade.
Now my bag I keep under the bed is a bit more complex I have 20 loaded 30 round mags for the AR with 3X9 scope and an extra 1000 rounds, Maxpedition bag with strider knife and Dog Father, Kevlar vest, Misc. clothing, some food and water, Springfield XD 9mm with 3 mags and 500 rounds, plus a sling for the AR, and some misc stuff like water filter, glucose tabs, some black plastic garbage bags (very handy for heat retention and rain gear and it is black)also I have some amo and face grease. If I have enough time I will grab the 2 5 gal. cans of diesel in the garage, and my 30.06 Ready for 1000 yard plus!!). I need 10 minutes in the house to get all I need Genorator,food, ammo, etc. Oh don't forget my 12 copies of Catcher In The Rye. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

Great stuff everyone - making me think of things that I need to add and think about. This is going to be fairly random and jumbled: <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

A generator would be an excellent thing. So would some fuel cans. Too bad my Explorer is enclosed - I wouldn't really be able to keep fuel in ther without keeping all of the windows open - no point in trying to protect the family and then kill them all w/ gas fumes!

The biggest issue that I think I'd have in a hypothetical urban warfare kind of scenario (I'd be getting to the woods ASAP though) would be fuel. I've got everything that I could possibly need for extended survival in my truck, but once its out of gas, the camp is rather permanent!

I'm really excited about getting the M4 upper for my AR - it'll really round out my firearms. In my assault kit, after some thought, I'd be more likely to have my Glock 9mm w/ the 17rnd mags than my 1911 w/ the 8rnd mags.

Here's a question for you guys. How long is water good for in a sealed and sterile container? I've had my current 7 or 8 gallons of water in the back of my truck for about 4 months - time to change it? I've drank water from canteens that was 3-4 months old, but never older than that. Just curious.

I think that my heavy barrel 7.62x39 upper with my 9x scope should be good out to at least 600m at a man sized target. I know that 7.62x39 isn't great at long distances, but it has a great takedown to $$ ratio!!

Anyways, great stuff guys. This summer, I plan on going through all of my stuff and making sure that its good to go. I may have more of a "winter" and "summer" packing list like we had in the Army, but I'd always at least have the basics for all seasons. As my A-hole First Sergeant used to say... "It might be summer now, but if we go to war, it'll be winter before we come home."

This summer I plan on taking a number of 2-3 day camping trips (gotta schedule those around my wife's weekends off of work... or else its me an the 2 year old!). Going to work on the basic survival skill stuff... firecraft, water collection, traps, impovised fishing, etc. Should be a blast.

Thanks again for all of the tips, and Stan - great idea for a thread topic!

And my copy of The Catcher In The Rye... Good call Stan.

Your welcome Dice- I think I do need to do some adjusting to my gear , I thought about it and I am missing the basic tool, FIRE, but I am sure I have a Bic in the truck. I need is a Hummer with about 1000 lbs. of gear too much to list, just imagine what we would need to make it as easy as possible.
Bottom line GUNS,AMMO,FOOD,WATER,SHELTER,FIRE. Chances are if something goes down we are going to have to pack it out , not drive.
Another bad thing is my wife works 45 minutes away, my kids go to school 20 minutes in the opposit direction and I work all over the place up to 1 hour away by truck. Scary stuff! Oh I also have a gas mask and I need 3 more and some extra filters, I carried it and my AR when 9-11 happened.
Desperate times call for desperate measures.
I think that even if we have the best BOB we will still be lacking something.
Great topic Diceman!! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/banghead.gif" alt="" />

When my family and I were stationed in Korea, we all had gas masks - something that they don't have here (I have one from the National Guard). Definately something that we should have though. Anywhere you know of that has good prices on surplus stuff?

Fire... I think that the ability to make fire and a knife are the 2 most important survival tools - bar none. A gun is the most important self defense tool. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" /> So the 3 of those are way up there on importance. I have a ton of firemaking stuff. I always carry a knife on me, and I have a flint/striker combo in a little pouch on my keychain (something I highly suggest to everyone). I always have fire and blade on my person, because odds are you're not going to be in the ideal place when the poop hits the fan, or when you get stranded. I should really have some paracord on me as well - maybe one of those paracord bracelettes or even just a braided lanyard on my key chain w/ the flint combo.

Dice you are the man. I love " The Shield " I just got done watching it right now.

Some great kit you all have but my first thought was what if someone broke into your truck and swiped it !!! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" />

The info below was from a presentation that I did to a group of friends several months ago.

Purpose
The purpose of these writings is to share some of my experiences with ****** members on preparedness kits and various types of gear that I have used or could be used in a bad situation. I want to give you ideas on what you might purchase to create a BOB for both you and your family. My comments are oriented towards a desert environment and based on information from web sites, books and my own personal experiences. For our purposes, the terms 72 hour kit, BOB, bug out bag, kit or survival kit will be used interchangeably. Before you start assembling your BOB, read this document. Then use the checklist at the end of this document to assemble your kit.

Some thoughts
I have never been on a sinking ship, battled zombies, survived a week long stay on the top of Everest, but I have been in some situations where I was ill prepared to deal with the problems presented. In each of these situations, there were certain things that would have been very helpful to me. A few basic items would have made my bad experience much easier to deal with.
A 72 hour “survival” kit is meant to provide basic necessities for a 3 day period of time. Why 72 hours? The idea is that by the end of the 72 hour period, one would be able to secure help, long-term assistance. Everyone in your party needs a BOB (or at least the contents of a BOB that someone else carries). Each individual does not necessarily need a separate kit, but the supplies needed by others will need to be included in someone’s BOB.

Essentials

Mental Preparedness
Mental preparedness will play an important role in both your survival and that of your family. I suggest that you spend some time thinking about how you and your family members act when they are stressed out. Maintaining your composure in front of others can be very helpful in making it through a tough situation. This is an area that you need to explore on your own.
Basic Survival Triangle
In general, the 3 top priorities in a survival situation in order of importance are:
1. Shelter
2. Water
3. Food
Survival literature mentions the rule of 3’s when talking about survival. This rule says that an individual can survive 3 hours without shelter, 3 days without water and 3 weeks without food. Some consider adequate clothing to be a form of shelter. In a cold environment, the traditional order of survival holds very true. In a hot desert environment, these 3 top priorities change a bit. Water, shelter, and then food is the order of priorities in the desert.

Shelter
This could be as simple as a black plastic garbage bag, an emergency blanket or a tent, but there is no reason not to at least carry some form of shelter. I have had many types of shelter over the years. I have used tarps, bivy sacks and tents. Emergency ponchos are inexpensive and can protect against rain and wind. A bright colored poncho can be used for signaling. One thing is for sure, if you are going to go to the trouble of carrying a tent, get a quality tent or don’t bother. Cheap tents are no good and good tents are not cheap. Plenty of quality tents are available at places like REI or Campmor and you can usually purchase a tent from last season’s line up for a discount. I have found that $200-$300 is usually the price point range where a quality 2-person tent can be purchased. A quality 4-6 person tent can run you several hundred dollars.
I would advise carrying a tent if you have children or are dealing with extremely cold temperatures. The weight of a tent can be distributed between 2 or more adults to lessen the load. The stress created from miserable children will be a major mental strain on everyone involved in the situation. Obviously there are natural shelters that can be made wherever you are. See the information link at the end of this document for further information on creating shelters.

Water
You must make accommodations to carry water as part of your kit. Everyone if your party will need an adequate water supply, not just you. This is one reason that I suggest you get a pack with a water bladder. One thing is for sure, our bodies are made mostly of water and without it you are in serious trouble. Remember the rule of 3’s. I suggest that you figure out how much water that you consume during various activities and carry accordingly. Water weighs approximately 8 pounds per gallon excluding the container it’s in. Everyone has different degrees of physical fitness and the amount of water that I need may not be the same amount that you need.
Some of the survival literature I have read recommends carrying 1 gallon of water a day as a minimum. As the temperatures increase, you might find that between 2-5 gallons of water is needed. In these more extreme temperatures it is recommend that you move at night and rest during the day if possible. Given that we are talking about potentially carrying what you (and potentially your family) need on your back, you will need to carry as much water as you reasonably can.
Although water purification is something that might not be part of your survival kit, it’s worth mentioning here. Boiling water is also beneficial in making water safer from bacteria, but chemicals are needed in order to kill viruses. I have used Potable Aqua tablets successfully on several occasions. There is a product called Aqua Mira that received good reviews from many serious hikers. A quality filtration system from MSR or Katadyn can be very useful as well. These devices can clog however, and having a replacement cartridge with you is a good idea.
This is an area that requires some research on your part as these different methods of purification and filtration focus on killing different types of bacteria and viruses. Here is an article that discuses some of the details. In a best case scenario, you use a combination of these purification methods to get the best results. Anti diarrhea medicine should also be part of your medical kit as this condition will lead to dehydration.

Food
Food that does not need much preparation and has a long shelf life is ideal for a BOB. Things like Power Bars, MRE’s (meals ready to eat), powdered Gatorade, Top Ramen, nuts, peanut butter, beef jerky and trail mix are all good examples of food for you kit. Canned food also works, but it’s very heavy. There are meals that you can add hot water to that come in a plastic pouch as well. You can find these at camping stores like REI. If you have a baby or someone that has a specific food allergy, you need to plan accordingly. Powered baby formula may be necessary (as well as a bottle and nipples) if you have an infant that you need to feed. It may not be mom’s milk, but it will get the job done. Food will need to be rotated out of your kit periodically so that it does not spoil. No need to plan on gourmet meals here. We are talking about survival. I suggest checking food on a monthly basis.

Packs, Duffle Bags and Other Containers
Keeping all of your supplies inside of a large plastic trash bag will help keep your kit dry. I suggest using a backpack to keep your kit in. A backpack allows your hands to remain available to perform other tasks, from carrying wood, carrying your child or using a weapon. I prefer discrete packs, something that does not say “hey look at me, I am a survivalist gun nut come take all my [censored]”. Avoid camouflage packs if possible. A duffle bag will also work, but make sure it can be slung over your shoulder.
I actually use a smaller pack in the summer and a bigger pack in the winter. A good school backpack, Camelbak, Eagle pack or military issue OD Alice pack will work fine given what capacity you need. A pack that has a water bladder is a necessity. REI or Campmor have quality packs if you need something with more capacity than a standard day pack (in case you need to carry kit for someone like a child who can’t carry a pack or someone who is handicapped).
A duffle back will work here as well. In fact, I keep many of the items listed in the additional items section of this paper in a couple of duffle bags. These can be thrown in to a vehicle on a moments notice. These bags can be used to replenish supplies if needed in whatever environment you find yourself in.
For vehicle transport and longer terms supplies, plastic storage containers can be used to store gear and a quality container should protect your gear in the event it gets wet. Places like Lowes and Home Depot carry these types of items. See the pictures section for containers that I use.

Medical Needs
I have no medical experience whatsoever so do your own research. However, I do know that when I have a headache, I take aspirin and when I have a small cut, I put a band aid on it. Initially, I purchased a pre packaged medical kit for my BOB. I have since made my own. Unless you have the medical expertise (or do enough research) to build you own, buy one and understand how to use what’s in it. I have purchased a kit from REI and I have added some stuff that I have found useful. These kits expire and need to check every 6 months to make sure the medicine has not expired. If you find a kit “on sale” check the expiration date on the medicine and you will find it’s either expired or will expire very soon. If you plan on taking care of your family, then a day hiker kit is not going to cut it, remember that you need to plan for everyone in your party. Here are some additional items that I have in my medical kit that did not come with the one I purchased:
• Toilet paper is a must. It can also be used as tinder or to take notes on. You can smash the roll down and compress it a bit. It should be stored in a Ziploc or water tight bag.
• Sun screen.
• Moleskin – this stuff works to prevent blisters and ease the pain once you have them. Duct tape will also work although the residue can be messy.
• Sanitary Napkins – yes you read that correctly. Unless you are a single guy, pack them or make sure you girl does.
• Multi-vitamins – good source of nutrients to supplement food supplies.
• Allergy medicine – I am allergic to bee stings so I carry an antihistamine.
• Lip balm or Petroleum Jelly – Petroleum Jelly is mildly flammable and can be used to water proof tinder. Nothing like a little lip balm on chapped lips.
• Got diapers? Don’t forget about the children’s needs.
• Any special medicine like asthma medicine needs to be accounted for.
• Un-lubricated condoms - can be used to carry and store water.

Clothing
Obviously, you need to adjust your clothing for the time of year which is why I have a summer BOB and a winter BOB. Come fall, I move my kit from my summer pack to my winter kit and add cold weather gear.
Cotton clothing is very beneficial in summer heat because it retains sweat and keeps moisture close to your body keeping you cooler. In the winter, the same property of cotton clothing that keeps you cool in the summer does the same thing when it’s cold. Mountaineers have a saying, “cotton kills”. I can attest to the disadvantage of using cotton clothing in the winter.
Synthetic (or a natural material like wool) material is preferred in the cold as it does not retain moisture very well. Moisture is pulled away from your body (“wicked away”) in to the air or the next layer of clothing you have on. REI and Campmor have all sorts of synthetic cold weather gear.
Quality synthetic cold weather gear is very compressible and very lightweight. Both of these are very desirable qualities. Down (duck or goose feathers) is a very warn natural material, but it looses much of its warming properties when it’s wet. Have you every sleep in a wet down sleeping bag? It sucks. Wool is a natural material that does not collect much moisture but it’s relatively heavy when compared to nylon filaments.
I believe that every member of your party should have a hat and gloves from infants to adults. The sun can be brutal and a sun burn can make you miserable. In addition, a cold weather hat can keep your body from loosing a significant amount of heat. A good set of leather gloves will protect your hands from basic work duties like changing tires or chopping wood. I also suggest you carry bandanas. They can provide shade form the sun and cam filter large debris from water sources.

Fire
You must have multiple sources from which to make fire. Every kit should have multiple ways to create a spark. I have tried and used many different methods to start a fire. I suggest that you carry 3 sources of spark, Bic lighters, a magnesium stick or “fire steel” and water proof matches.
I have found that Zippo lighters dry out too quickly to depend on them in a BOB. Some people swear by them, I don’t. Bic’s are a proven lighter, cheap knock off lighters suck, get over it and pay the extra $1 for a Bic. Get a pack of Bic’s and distribute them throughout your BOB’s.
I have successfully used a magnesium stick to start fires in very cold and wet environments. The issue with this tool is that dry tinder is critical. The idea is that you scrape off flakes of magnesium in to a pile and the use a flint stick (usually integrated on the block of magnesium) and a piece of metal (I have found that a piece of a hacksaw blade works best or a knife) to create a
spark to ignite the magnesium. These are inexpensive tools, but you need to practice with them at home before using them in the field. Wind can also blow the magnesium flakes all over hell and back which is frustrating when your hands are frozen.
Waterproof matches are inexpensive and work well. There is a difference in the quality of waterproof matches, don’t buy crappy matches. You can also dip normal matches in wax to waterproof them, but I suggest buying waterproof matches off the shelf.
Dry tinder is critical in starting a fire. I have successfully used Wetfire in very bad conditions to start a fire using wet tinder. I really like this product. Lint from your dryer stored in a waterproof container works. Cotton balls also work. Emergency candles are nice because they can be used as a light source and they burn for a very long time.
The final point about fire is that you need to store your sources for fire in different places. If you loose your pack or need to ditch it and you have all of your means to start fire in your pack, you are screwed. Carry a source of fire on your person, in your pack and stashed on other places as well.

Tools
A few basic tools are an essential part of your BOB. One more note about tools. Make sure that you test any tools that you include in your kit before including them. I have purchased a few different tools in the past that have broken apart with very little use.
In my opinion, a knife is mandatory, in fact, a couple of knives should be part of your kit. I prefer at least one 4-7 inch fixed blade knife. I recommend a quality American made (with a few exceptions) knife. A quality knife from Frosts of Sweden ($6-$30), not the Frost Cutlery overseas crap, Ranger Knives ($70-$150), KaBar ($40-$100), Camillus ($30-$50), Becker Knives ($50-$100), Swamp Rat ($150-$250), Busse ($200-$400), Swiss Army Knife ($20-$100) are all great choices. Regardless of your budget there are plenty of options out there.
I also recommend a multi tool be included in your kit. These range in price from $40 to $100. American made tools are what I suggest. These types of tools typically have a knife blade or 2, a saw, a screwdriver or two and a can opener. The popularity of these tools has lead to some pretty elaborate setups and most people have one (or a few in my case) of these lying around.
Another tool that I like to have is a saw. You can either depend on the saw blade on a multi tool or you can purchase a dedicated saw from Fiskars. A dedicated saw will be much more efficient than a saw on a Swiss Army Knife.
A good folding knife can also be a great addition to your kit because they are lightweight. I suggest that you get one with a locking blade. Even some Swiss Army knives have locking blades now. Check out the One Handed Trekker model, it has a saw as one of its tools as well as a locking blade.
I have many knives from all of the companies I mentioned above (usually multiple knives from each company) if you want to handle them before you make a decision, just let me know.
Firearms
Since this discussion is directed at ******, I will just say that a firearm that can be concealed on your person is beneficial here. Citizens were stripped of their weapons post Katrina. Being discrete is essential in a bad situation.

Survival Kits
There are a number of ideas surrounding what should be in a survival kit. I suggest you go to http://www.equipped.org and assemble a kit based on your needs.

Supplemental Items
I actually have these larger items in a couple of big duffle bags and large plastic containers that can be tossed in to my vehicle on a moments notice.
Sleeping Bags
Get a quality sleeping bag. I have had great success with the SnugPak line of sleeping bags, specifically the Softie 6. This sleeping bag is a bit bigger than a football when compressed and is very lightweight. Once again REI and Campmor have all sorts of sleeping bags. A quality lightweight sleeping bag is not cheap. A quality bag is money well spent, trust me on this one.

Stoves
There are quite a few options in the camp cooking area. Visit REI and Campmor for further information here. I have used this stove from Coghlan’s successfully on many occasions. The fuel tablets can also be used to light a fire. Stove’s are like GPS units, there are many of them out there, pick one that meets your needs.
I suggest you have a cooking pot of some kind to boil water in. I use a 5 inch diameter aluminum grease trap I picked up at Wal-Mart for $7. If you really want to go big there are Titanium cook sets available for around $50, I did not find they have any real advantage over aluminum for a BOB type of kit given the large difference in price.

Tools
A quality entrenching tool is a good tool to have in your supplemental supplies. It can be used to dig a toilet, create a trench around your sleeping area to prevent flooding or clear rocks away from your camp.
A machete can be useful to take down brush or cut up small trees for creating a shelter. These are inexpensive tools that can also be used for defensive purposes. I have successfully used the 12” Camper Machete from Ontario knives for all sorts of camp chores.
An axe is another option that can either replace or supplement a saw or large fixed blade. I have used the Fiskars axe’s with success. They are relatively lightweight and very durable.
Bolt cutters could be very useful in an urban environment or in the field to cut apart fencing or break locks.
A pry bar is another inexpensive tool that could be helpful in an urban environment. They can be used to open doors, break windows and as a defensive tool.

Checklist
Let the games begin. Lets get started making a BOB. We will exclude the supplemental items that I listed above since you may or may not carry these items.
Step 1: Clear a large area in your living room or some place where you can lay out your gear.
Step 2: Assemble the items from the checklist below.
Water
Para cord 50ft.
3 Bic lighters
Clothing (seasonal)
Wetfire or other Tinder
Batteries
1 magnesium stick or fire steel
Cash
1 box waterproof matches
1 signaling mirror
1 compass
1 survival kit
1 GPS unit
1 multi-tool
1 leather gloves
1 knife & sharpener
1 hat
1 hooded emergency poncho
1 sunglasses
1 Emergency candle
Sunscreen
1 small flashlight
3 bandanas
1 cooking pot
Lib balm or Vaseline
1 bottle or bag of multi-vitamins
1 survival book
2 Motorola radios
2 large quality garbage bags
Saw (optional)
1 small amount duct tape
1 deck playing cards (optional)
1 chemical water treatment
1 plastic or nylon tarp (optional)
Food
1 stove (optional)
3 un-lubricated condoms
Hatchet (optional)
1 first aid kit
1 plastic fork (optional)
1 roll toilet paper in zip loc
1 plastic spoon (optional)
1 sheet 8x11” paper in zip loc
1 small AM/FM radio (optional)
1 pencil
1 prepaid calling card (optional)

Step 3: Place all items that would get damaged if they got wet in to zip loc bags. You can also use other types of “ditty bags” to keep the gear above assembled.

Step 4: Find a backpack or duffle bag that will hold all of the gear above. The idea here that you start out with your kit first and then find a bag that will accommodate the contents of your kit.

Step 5: Print out this checklist and put the date that your kit was assembled and the date that you need to check on the kit to recycle food, batteries and medical supplies.

Wow, some Very good stuff here!
Will have to go back and read the details more slowly.

Stansbrew brings up a good point about diesel.. you can idle it all night if you had to. From what i understand many military vehicles are diesel, so when enemy fuel is captured, the diesel engines aren't very picky about octane or refinement.

As for vehicle.. i've thought about different things.. but still not sure yet.
4WD is a given. But big, medium, small? 4-cylinder engine for fuel efficiency?
These are some of the things i'm mulling over.

The same caliber rifle/pistol idea is neat, but I live out in the desert.. so range, downrange punch are important to me.
I'm currently researching buying or building a "Jeff Cooper Scout Rifle" bolt rifle in .308 for my "one" rifle, i'd prolly do a carbine.

But anyways.. Great thread! i have a lot to learn..

I hope that my truck dosn't get broken into, but if it dose I guess I will have to replace it all. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />

I just noticed Browning makes a sweet takedown lever action, clip fed too! A wide choice of calibers as well. Looks like it would stuff into a backpack easily. The only drawback is the 4 round mags. This could be a nice cannon to add to the survival gear.

Jeeps - awesome list. When I pull my BOB out to check and "update" it, I'll add a couple of things that I don't have from your list. I do have almost everything listed though!! I have a ton more fire gear, and I've added the fishing gear, but pretty much everything from your list I have. I've also got some "Chem Lights" and extra socks. And plastic sheeting, and heavy duty clear plastic bags (transpiration bags) for water collection.

Knifeparty - I really like The Shield. Season 6 is going great so far!!

Oh yea, Pit - if my truck was broken in to, and everything was stolen, I'd have to replace it all. Montana is relatively low crime, and it would take a big SOB to go running off with all of my stuff! Everything that is real high $$ is in the house, ready to go - (the good knives and the guns.) The only quality steel that I keep in my Explorer are the Ontario RAT7 and RTAK II because they're so easily replaced. I'd rather take my chances with getting $5-600 worth of gear ripped off, then to waste $20 minutes loading it up if time was critical.

Anyone have a good answer about how long you can keep water for in a clean container?

The Red Cross recommends cycling out water once a year when it's purchased in sealed containers like drinking water from the store. I cycle my water, medical supplies and food out every new year.

http://www.redcross.org/services/disaster/beprepared/water.html

Great link - thanks Jeeps. Looks like I should be changing my tap water (in my "food grade" giant water container) every 6 months. Can't wait to get out and "hone my skills." I'm going to make the wife go camping with me in a couple of weeks!

Nice thread, guys!
I am currently working on this, myself.
I think I am going with modules: Food unit, survival unit, snivel unit, weapons unit
Something like that.

James Bond,
I literally have the same gear in my jeep as you listed.

My problem is, as I update gear, my possibilities change.
I am working on the food part now. I plan on 3 days for me, the wife, the 2 dogs and a cat.
Medical is very important, too. getting shot sucks, so does crap in your eye.

Modularization can be good, just make sure you disburse your modules throughout your gear so you don't get totally screwed by not having a module. For example, many smaller modules of fire starting gear, food, water are better than having all of fire starting gear, food or water in one container because if you loose it or need to ditch it, you lose the value of the entire module. Hopefully, I am not being to confusing here.

My plan is to make it easy for the wife.
we have only had to bug out twice, both times were a bit confusing. priorites shift when 'it' actually happens.
I am starting with: honey, food is in here. you take this. animal food in here, you take this....

The basic gear like that is to be in a closet near the front door. that way, she can grab and scoot if i am not here to supervise.

She went out today and bought 3 days of dog food and kitten MRE's.... bonus points for the wife.

Man, I need to get busy on mine. Just incase the "Big One" rocks Los Angeles. I sure am not taking my family to a stadium after seeing what happened with Katrina. We will be plenty ready on our own.

I just got this eating utensile the other day. I have a "hobo tool" somewhere too, but I don't think its in my kit. I really need to do another inventory! I just bought a signal mirror yesterday as well.... and a couple hundred rounds of 5.56 - not enough, but all that was left! I guess that all military type ammo is getting scarce lately.

hey diceman, how do you like that spork thing I saw them on line here and there are they any good or more of a gimmick?

How about a Scrap Yard Spork. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

I saw one of those in the store, but I thought they looked kinda flimsy and cheap. I thought it was a neat idea though to have 3 utensils in one. My favorite silverware set is my Brunton titanium set. It’s really lightweight and strong. They’re a little under $20 on eBay. I also have a Ka-bar hobo chow set. It’s pretty neat too.

I have a titanium spork that I carry about with me in my pack. I use it more often than you would think.

Who has some pictures...I read it, but I want to see it fit. I just got 2 BOBs in and need to start packing them......Hurricane Season is almost upon me. June 1st-Nov 30th. 6 months of Hurricane season....gotta love Louisiana!

I'm working on it. I've still got more info to type up for you. I got real busy after I PM'd you wednesday night.

Love the Sig line!!!!

Ummm... the Orange Spork has yet to see any use from me. I'll throw it in the bag, I'm sure that it'll work. Not like I'm really going to cut anything with the "knife" edge on it. I have a cheap winchester hobo tool set, which is ok. I figure that if I'm just surviving, the stuff that I'm going to eat is going to be on a bone or else a plant, and I've never been much of a soup person. I don't think I'll need any utensiles other than a knife. I also have spoons in the MRE's that I'd keep as well. I just got the spork cuz it was $2 or something at Walmart!

Jason - When I re-inventory my BOB in a few weeks I'll take some pictures.

Here are some pics of some of my gear. I have 5 of these black plastic tubs filled with various gear. These tubs are able to sit out in the rain or snow and not leak. Most of them are self contained units each with a balanced supply of gear. I have one dedicated to ammo. In other words, each container has knives, fire starting gear, fishing gear, gloves, water bladders, backpack, cooking supplies, crobar's or machetes or multi-tools etc. This way if I can only take one tub with me, I have a well rounded mix of supplies.

I just took one of my tubs up this weekend for an over nighter and it worked great. My 4 year old ended up proving once again that he is a tough little man hanging in there with temps in the high teens. My 7 year old complained quite a bit, but he ended up hanging pretty tough, not like I gave him a choice.

J33psr0ck,
I love those Rubbermaid Action Packers! iirc they Float too! i gotta get me some more of those!


re: Antibiotics.
Is it true when folks say you can buy Antibiotics without prescription from Pet Stores?
i was just thinkin.. when crap hits the fan.. pharmacies would be all looted out of the good stuff.
Dunno about the other folks but sometimes it takes Weeks just to get an Appointment wiht my [censored] HMO doctor! let alone get a Prescription for something i Need!

I have a big tub for my gear too to keep in my truck. The one I use, and is the best one I’ve found, is a Rubbermaid Industrial Brute container. It’s like the standard Rubbermaid tubs, but MUCH stronger. I weigh 300 lbs, and I can stand on top of it on the lid without hurting it. It was like $15, and I got it at Menards.


Yes, also you can get meds at farm stores.

Jeeps - great stuff. I should probably think about getting something similar to that started, in addition to my BOB with some more serious life sustaining stuff in it. Great call. You're the man.

I just went yesterday and bought enough freez dried food for my wife 2 kids and myself for 4 days, including some Deet, a first aid kit, paracord, and water purifacation tabs, and some bottled water all in a gym bag. So now I have 3 bags to grab but with the 3 bags i have just about all I need to make it out of dodge!
I still need to go thru and update some stuff, at the local gun show I will pick up a couple of stich kits. Maybe 2maro I will go thru , empty and photo the goodies I have

So having reviewed everything here, what size bag on average would you say was adequate for your basic necessities? I have a couple basic,crappy, backpacks I use when I go to the range, but would like to invest in something a little nicer. Any suggestions would be great. Thanks, Tom.

The bag I just got was 17$ Cheap but it will hold food, any good top entry duffel bag should work, you will need more than a backpack, I also have a maxpedition full of extra AR mags. I think a good .22 maybe a 10/22 would be great, ight weight ammo, easy to silence and cheap! I am also going to stuff my XD 9mm in there with 200 rounds.
The sub 40 is also compact and its a .40 with peep sights!

Wow stansbrew, you look like you are ready for the good fight,by the way, how do you like that Kel-Tec Sub 2000, like the idea of them, do they shoot well? handel? jam much? etc. thanx

Hey Bond it's a sub8, .40 cal the earlier model before the sub 2000, and it is a pretty cool toy, when it cycles it is kind of strange hard to describe- it has a funny sound, kind of quiet I guess the only.40 I ever shot out of a long bbl. All in all it is a sound weapon but I would go for the newer version they have a locking action and a few other upgrades. As for jamming-DON'T let em get dirty inside clean it every time you shoot! Clean-no jam Not clean-JAM. Went to wades range in Bellevue and pulled that out of my pack and really got some looks. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

I like 3 day packs (~3000cu) per person. Then supplemental bags or tubs for longet duration gear. Although the desing is dated and simple, I am partial to Eagle Industries AIII pack. There are many other pack makers out there that make cooler looing and more modern stuff. Kifaru and Eagle Industries are my top picks, then Kelty (like the MAP 3500) and Mountainsmith (like the Ghost) are next. Eagle has great customer service. My wife has a 3 day pack and my kids have daypacks. If you are purchasing the pack for bad day's as I like to call them, I would suggest a subdued color, camo is probably not the best thing because it screams Rambo. I kind of violated this rule with my Eagle pack, but I am a sucker for OD.

I have a 5600cu frame pack (Kelty Super Tioga) - its a week pack, and very comfortable. It'd be great if I had to hike out of somewhere, but probably not as good if it was a "$hit hit the fan" situation, because I can't really run with it. If I need to break that down in to a smaller package, I'd just throw it in my old Large military Ruck w/ frame - I'd guess its about 3500 cu or so (I just looked - they're cheap online - make sure to get the frame and kidney pad though!).

I really need to get mine together! We are approaching Hurricane season.....again and want to have it together...I imagine I will be able to pick up a few "supplies" at Blade. Then again at Knob Creek in October, seeing as how this year was a Bust!

I also have several b.o.b.s! My main one that I can carry, one for winter, one with food stuffs, an extra fire starter one and one for extra tools. They all have at least the basics (food, fire starters, first aid etc) but are set up for different needs. I can always take them all or just one or two, I like being prepared for different things.
Here's the Main One:

this picture was taking before I got my SYKCO'S!

Nice looking swtup there Which. Ziplocs are great for keeping gear in.

thx J it's even better now, I need to update it!

Is that a D2 TAK I see there? Nice Ranger BTW.

I love the B.O.B.s of you people, there is are at least 8 cutting and choping tools in WitchDawg's kit. Now there is almost no chance of needing that much blade in your pack, but I it is nice to be ready and I assure you my bag also contains much steel.

yes jeeps, it is a d2 Tak! like yours!

I have 3 stages (bags) of my BOB.

1st stage basic survival gear for a family of six
2nd stage secondary gear
- this would be tent, additional food,extra guns etc
3rd stage creature comforts
- this would be shampoo, more TP, extra clothes, extra guns,food,etc

these stages are broken down into two bags each (total of six bags - one for each family member)

each bag is crossed loaded with gear so that if we loose half of our bags we are still fine of if we cannot find but one bag we are still OK.

essentialy what we bring is selective camping type gear with enough provision for 3-5 days. I could give a detailed list but most of what we bring has already been covered.

However I have added a few extras:

2- .45 acp w 10 8 rnd mags and 100 loose rnds ( total 180 rnds)
1- 12 ga pump with 30 shells 00 buckshot (tactical grip and extended mag, full tactical configuration)
1- SKS w 200 rnds on stripper clips (full tactical configuration)
1- 22lr pistol with 500 rnds w 5 mags
and
at least one knife type tool per person.
1- 18" KhuKuri
1- 9 " chopper
1- 5" prybar knife
1- 4" utility knife
2- 3 1/2" folders
1- 2" folder
4- multi-tools

1- General purpose stone/rod combo
3- diamond stones ( varying grit)
2- ceramic rods
2- diamond rods

I like your selection and organization R/B! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

WD - Nice old school Ranger!

RB - some great ideas there, I'm going to adopt some!

OK. Here's some of my work in progress. I didn't really show guns, I have some other stuff just loose in my truck such as a tent, blankets, machette, lotsa water, etc. I'd be grabbing the AR-15 on the way out the door, along w/ my Glock26 and that 1911 - and ammo of course! I have a big prybar in the truck also. This is just what I carry in my pack. Right now my gear is setup for more of a survival/accident scenario than a tactical emergency of some kind (as its less likely!), but I'm confident that I'd have enough gear on me for either situation.

I suppose if it came down to it, all I'd really need is this <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />



Anyways, here is my bag, packed. I also carry seasonal clothing and a tarp in this bag, in addition to the below pictures.



Food:



Water, purification tabs, and tubing/plastic if it gets real rough. I also have some more containers in the truck, and a 2nd canteen in the bag. Oh yeah, and canteen cups. Oops! Forgot to put them in the pic.



Fire starting supplies: In the plastic bag is dryer lint and those little fire starting tinder sticks.



Signaling and lighting - I also have a whistle: That crazy looking thing is an LED/Laser pointer.



Warmth:



Sharps:



First Aid:



And odds and ends: Blue box has regular fish hooks and big treble hooks for snagging the fishies. Field shower in there too. Also have the GPS w/ 2 extra sets of batteries.



I still need a lot of work, but since I finished my Finals today, I figured I'd inventory and decide what else to get. Anything obvious that I'm missing?

Again, I'm set on clothing, sleeping bags, boots, shovel, etc.

Lemme know guys!

you really have a lot of good stuff there, I wouldn't say your missing anything, not from the first initial view (how about special meds, extra glasses or contacts) Can you carry it all if you had to? Can you and someone else carry it all? And how far, long? I tried to think of that, so I made several b.o.b.s to deal with that.

But they say more than likely I'll end up staying in my home if something bad happens, I just won't have electric, water, a place to buy groceries, doctors, dentists, and so on. So I try and plan/be as ready as possible for that. But if a chemical accident happens, or fire, or something that makes me leave my home I have pretty much what you have, give or take, your pretty good bro, better than most I suspect...

I've also got lots of paracord. 1 extra pair of glasses in the truck (where my bag is).

The pack is roughly 45lbs. I could carry it as far as I needed to (it'd obviously slow me down some). Its about the same weight as I'm used to from the Ruck marches back in the day.

Thanks much for the critique brother.

Dice, you look good to go.

Thanks Bond.

A cast iron skillet sure would be nice, but too heavy. Any good alternatives for cooking??

I have a little coleman gas burner in the truck as well. And a spotlight and power inverter. And XM Radio <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

Great work man. Here are some random thoughts and you may have this stuff already:

Water and tough containers. The milk jug containers don't even last a couple months in my Jeep, they leak. Maybe it's just the desert sun in my area.

Adding more batteries, I see your GPS there.

Swampping out the iodine based water treatment for some Aqua Mira. Tastes much better http://www.backpackinglight.com/cgi-bin/backpackinglight/aquamira_mcnett.html.

A couple of quality Hefty garbase bags are nice to have for shealter or protecting gear against water. You do have the emergency ponchos though.

Think about putting everything in ziploc bags especially the GPS (looks like you have some there can't tell).

I have not found a saw like that that actually stands up to abuse. If you have tried that one and it works, let me know who makes it.

Maps of the area you would most likely be in.

I have found a maglite to be more useful than the OD angle lights. Maybe carry more batteries and spare bulbs for the maglite and ditch the other one? Or carry a smaller LED flashlight.

Prepare the BOB's for the family as well once you get your stuff dialed in.

Some quarters and some cash. Maybe a calling card. Cell phone which you probably carry anyway.

Walkabout radios for vehicle to vehicle and person to person comm within a reasonalble distance.

Hats for everyone. Bandannas are awesome. A big deal here in AZ for sun protecion. Sunblock for the little one's?

Toilet paper and a camp towel.

I use aluminum pots for cooking. I have 3 of them. You can store gear in them while you are not using them to maximize space usage.

Jeeps: YOU rock. Ummm... got the ziplocks. Got a set of Motorolla Talkabouts. Lots of ponchos, but I'll get some trash bags. I have good water containers. 3 canteens, 2 of those nalgene type bottles, and a heavy duty 7 gal (?) jug. I'll check out the Aqua Mira and add that. I should get some cash out. I do have a calling card. I need to dig out my small maglight. I do have a waterproof fishing style hat. I really need to get the wife and kids situated though. 2 sets of extra batteries for the GPS, but I'm going to add another dozen AA's or so tonight. Instead of a saw, I'd grab the DF! My cravats in the first aid kit work as bandanas as well. I need to get sunblock. I also need towels. I do have a big roll of blue "shop towells" and baby wipes. I only have 1 roll of TP, so I need more of that too.

Thanks a lot for the tips buddy. Those additions will be made shortly!!

I'm hearing more and more are opting for the AA battery flashlights, smaller and just as bright now and way lighter! Like the fenix series. I also have the gerber exchange a blade and they say it last and does the job.

All very good idea's jeeps, I like the plastic bags, I try and have a lot in mine.

hey Dice, me again and I was thinking, rope? twine? para-cord? 1/4 inch nylon? and/or heavyer stuff you could hang from (not full out climbing rope and harness, but something for thoes few poo-hitting-the-fan monments)?

yeah, where's the paracord bundles to hoist your beer to keep away from bears and play cops n robbers with the misses?!

Thanks guys. I've got about 40 feet of twine and 25 feet of paracord in there too. I usually have more paracord, but I'm in need of a resupply. Going to be doing that shortly!!

yeah, I buy it in the 1000' spool! but your pretty set for most things bro, great kit(s) <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

I just did a changing of the Guard w/ my steel. I pulled the Yard Hook, and replaced it with my Ontario RAT7 (D2/combo), and pulled the Ontario RAT5 and replaced it with one of my Dumpster Mutts (got my Leatherface kydex sheath for it today). I figure that I don't want the recurve in a survival situation due to the pain the the @$$ sharpening issue, and the D2 RAT7 will stay sharp forever, and has serrations for cutting line/rope/cord whatever. And, since I got rid of my "heavy" knife, I figured that the DM would take care of prying duties since the RAT7 can do the cutting. I kept the CS Voyager for small cutting chores, and the CS Bushman for spear making. I pulled the big sharpening systems and went with a small diamond stone and a small arkansas stone - I no longer need the rod system of the Spyderco Sharpmaker since I pulled the Hook.

I'd definately be taking the Dogfather with me as I was running out the door, so that I have something for chopping and splitting - but I use it so much that I decided not to leave it in the bag. In case I forget, I also have an Ontario RTAK II and Ranger RD7 that are loose in my truck.

Choosing blades has been the hardest thing for me when setting up my bag. If any of my logic seems way off, someone, anyone, give me some pointers!!

I know what you mean about which ones to pack and stow. Since I have several bags of course I keep one or two in each and the rest have a special heavy tool bag. Heavy as in something I wouldn't carry on me but would stow in the car, or some other place. It is also good to rotate your blade to get use to them, their cons and pros so when you do need them, you'll have a better idea of which is best for each need.

I came this close to getting that CS bushman but then I read that it's better to make a spear with your knife than use it as one. If you use it as a spear and lose it in a throw or buried in an animal or down the lake/water, what then! A spear is easy to make (several even) and you still have your knife on you.

Good call on the spear. I figure that the Bushman is essentially a "throwaway" since I've got at a minimum the DM and RAT7. I'd likely snatch up the RD7 and DF as well, so I won't feel bad about possibly "wasting" the Bushman if it came down to it. I'm taking the DF and DM out on Monday for a little wilderness family BBQ. My mom and dad, one of my brothers, one of my sisters, and the wife and kids are all meeting at some Hot Springs around here. My brother and his girlfriend are riding their bikes (the pedal kind) the 70 miles to the "spot," and the rest of us are driving. We're dropping them some gear, and then feasting, and coming home. I'll try to remember the camera. The plan is to split some firewood w/ the DF and dig a little pit w/ an E-Tool, and I'll probably use one of my fire starting tools from the BOB to get some practice with that. Likely a magnesium/flint combo and some dryer lint on some tinder (provided by stick shavings from the DM). My summer is just getting started though, and I plan on doing a lot of camping!!

I made a spear once when my buddy and I were stuck guarding a wrecked vehicle in Korea w/ the Army. Tried catching a bird under an MRE box w/ a prop and a string. didn't work. Tried hunting birds w/ rocks, and the spear. No luck. It was fun though.

wow sounds like a good time heading your way! yes do take the camera, share with your brothers my friend! they say when you make a spear, harden the tip in the fire, not direct flames but from coals or stones to get a dark brown color (you probably know this) and to sharpen the point away from center because some centers are slightly hollow. Camping and family BBQ! u lucky dog, yearn...

Yeah - I knew to harden the tip, but I didn't know that you shouldn't use open flame. Thanks for the tip.

I'll take some pix for sure.

yeah, flames will char it and make it brittle.

Sounds like a fun time D/M - enjoy yourself!! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

Well, all of the pictures from today are on my dad's camera, I'll get them in a couple of days I think.

I started my fire w/ the DM and a flint, and a little bit of dryer lint that I carry in my "fire kit." Worked like a charm!

The purpose of our little day trip was to resupply these two - my brother and a friend of his - they're on their way to Portland Oregon from Missoula Montana, and they did 75 miles of mountains today (the downhill doesn't come close to making up for the uphill!). We flagged them over to pose for a quick picture on the way to deliver a hot meal for them midway through Idaho...



Beat up the Dogfather while I was there - I split them a ton of firewood so that they'd have a nice little fire tonight. Here's what the trusty DF looks like now:




Anyways, I'll have a couple pix of DM firestarting and DF hotdog serving in a couple of days in a new thread. Peace.

very nice! thx bro for sharing, I'll be moving close to Portland soon, tell them to scout the place for me!

Cool pics. I never did a multi-day trek when my knee was good enough to ride.

Me either! My buddies and I used to ride about 60 miles round trip w/ our camping gear and crappy bikes when we were like 11-15, then we just drove or took motorcycles <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

Nice pics D/M! And nice that you provided a nice hot meal and firewood for the bikers!!

what a good brother you are. that is one long bike ride! were they having the time of their life?

I need to get back on the bike, damm flabby!!

Wow, this is almost a one stop shop for bug out lists. This is one of my favorite discussion topics. I am a firm believer in the kit that you can hump on your back in addition to the kit in the 4WD.

When I have more time, I'll add things I think were missed from my list, but off the top of my head something I would recommend are those trick birthday candles for fire starting. They are cheap, lightweight, and wind resistant. Use your match to light the candle and the candle to light your fire. Pre burn the candles before you pack them to make them easier to light the second time around.

Welcome Joe, glad to have your input bro! I think I read if it's windy or foul weather it would be hard to strike the match to get to the candle! It is an interesting idea, I would test it <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

They work pretty well. I have used them in the rain. It may be tough to get a true flame in the wind with them (or any candle), but they don't stop trying. They are really useful when your tinder is damp.

all right, I'll get trick birthday candles only if a girl comes outta a cake and does it for me!

(good input guys!)

Cool photos I especially like the bikes. I used to be a hardcore mountain biker but have been spoiled by my Honda 919. Bicycle campers have to be weight nazis when it comes to gear so they often have the real trick stuff.

For a great light cooking pot the best thing is the US army metal coffee cup that fits outside a canteen but inside the case. I guess it is very popular in Afrika with the bushmen.


For water containers I like the smallest plastic gas cans bought new although I got a couple nalgene bottles on clearance last week.

awesome bikes. we need to add at least one to our bug out alternate transportation department. I bet those babies are really light.

now this is the place to talk B.O.B.s!!!! Leatherface <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

if you can't use it, don't pack it bro, but a gun in or another knife! You don't really need food and tinder you can get anywhere. sure it's good to have in the woods. I have a special "fire B.O.B" for all my fire needs, it's small, has several fire starting things (fire steel, bic, magnifying glass, nato matches, mag stick, and tinder)

how's the B.O.B. going Leatherface??

it is going...

I got 2 new firexsteels coming and I am putting the scales on a Nessy right now for it

I still need a really good firstaid kit!!

oh man I'm still building my first aid kit! it's like, what's best? what do you need? I just bought some wound spray from wally world because I'm thinking; "what will I need the way I am!" and with so many sharp knives I better be ready!!! One thing I found was "chewable Tylenol" which I thought was kool.

You could but a ton of stuff in your first aid kit bro, they sell complete paramedic kits for hundreds! Crazy! I just try and put what I use or could use for my personal needs. Bandages and wrap, disinfectant, cold pack, amodium, and a few other things and I feel good...

yea I am going to get some Drema bond or something like it for wound care...pads and a few wraps are about all I carry

I still want a suture kit

it's funny you mention suture kit! I've been doing some research on that, and it seems most doctors/medic's, experts say don't close up a wound yourself, you can do more damage that way closing up a contaminated wound or too deep or too shallow stitches. They say to clean it good (best you can) close it up tight with wrap, and as soon as you can go to a doctor.

Now what if the space aliens have takin over the world and taken over all the hospitals and no doc's are around?! I've been reading staples could be better for the "unexperienced" or book doctor. So I don't have a suture kit, I'm still trying to figure that one out and what would be best...

I've never really thought of a Bug out Bag..................What would the size of it be, for a family of five......would I be able to carry it and where will I get the 10 grand I need to buy all the stuff in it.

Any one feel like making up a family of five, master list of supplies I would require??

On page two of this thread, Jeepsrock has a good list of essentials/or suggestions if you want to check it out. You can never have everything or even if you could, carry it all! I have several kits/b.o.b.s and that way I have specialized things for different needs and more people can carry it all. I'm always learning and am no expert but Diceman made this thread to share and learn from each other, something I really like. Feel free to take and add bro <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> I have...

hmm how about a medical stapler?? that could work fairly well


where do we aquire one?

I'd like to see one myself! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> I'll check around.

Probably eBay. They're a great source for medical stuff.

lapolicegear
has maxpedition typhoon gearslingers on closeout
http://www.lapolicegear.com/matyge.html


great quality & great price. if you can get over the fact that it doesnt have 2 shoulder straps





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if this is not allowed please remove

lookie here



http://www.esutures.com/15-100-0-skin-staplers-3m

i actually bought 3 commercial first aid kits in the last minth or so, plus an empty military m3 that i plan on filling myself.
chose a adventure medical kit field trauma kit, which is made for gunshot wounds.
also, their ultralight .5, and the ultralight .3.
I also invested in a gaggle of the new issue israeli trauma pads.

i also picked up 3 days of kitten MRE's at walmart.
gotta add puppy food, next.

Doggie MRE's?? kewl!!

pics pics pics!!

K guys

I got my new Firesteel from Fiddleback forge and it is MASSIVE!!! I kid you NOT this thing is BIG!! For the money it isnt a bad deal either and Andy is a droog!

ANYWHO

I talked to my Dr yesterday...She suggested staples for the great unwashed...Easier and less risk of hosing the wound closing

she did however STRESS that the wound should be cleaned properly if you are going to close it and that if you cant get it cleaned then closing should be the last resort...Iodine was suggested along with Black Sav to use to get the crud (infection) out...

CLEAN CLEAN CLEAN was stressed over and over...Saline iirgation should also be used

I just hope I never get a hole in me that is so big it needs to be stabled in the first place, ....but it is best to be prepared with know-how and supplies none the less.

No kidding james!!

i have 72 hour kits, food, water, clothes, emergency poncho and blankets. the hatchet .... are in camp boxes. we have started a long term foos storage also. that is what i want to increase. i would say we have a couple months food is all so far.

hmm I need to get me a 3 day ration

hmm ramen noodles and peanut butter!

WOOHOO!!

can't go wrong with ramen!

don't forget twinkies they will last forever!!! (no really they will)

I will second, that Twinkies last forever......the last place I worked, somone left a sealed package of twinkies in one of the outdoor sheds.........after 6 months they still looked good enough to eat. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/barf.gif" alt="" />

lol twinkies??

yea maybe...I am thinking of how to prepare wild game and fresh caught fish...Gotta reread alot of stuff i knew when I was a kid!

really on the twinkies? i'm going to go get a box now!

hey bro can you post some pictures of your new firesteel, say next to a penny or dime or any coin for scale, it sounds kool! and thanks for talking to a doc, very interesting, always helps to ask a pro.

Whichdawg...Gimme a bit onthat bro..I got 3 holster orders I am working on now,...if I can get them done I will get the pic taken for ya

take your time bro, sounds like your really coming along <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Thanks bro

it is funny that I at one time was known far more for my pocket holsters than anything else that i did!! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

HERE we go!!!

Shown

2 Oblivion P3AT pocket holster (no polish)

1 Goblin Pocket holster (no polish)

1 Highride for the DM (my rig)

Scout style firesteel

Fiddleback Forge custom firestarter with Osage O scales

[img][image]http://img2.putfile.com/thumb/6/17416415589.jpg[/img][/image]

Let me know if you think I'm pretty

I think you are. and also that firesteel is huge, better put it in your will it will a long time. also with the goblin is the larger peice (side) of leather facing out so your gun dosen't print in your back pocket?

James,
yea I will have to do that...I plan on getting 2 more done for my other 2 bags

yea the Goblin is the one with the integral backing...I tend to carry my P-32 in a Goblin..it is part of my budget line and was designed by "thebeltman.net"

Yup that is the idea, but I carry it in my frontpocket and it works the same and hides the print..Works pretty well on small revolvers like smith J-frames as well

very nice Dave! that is some pig/firesteel!

here's some of mine;

woohoo

what is the one on the far right?

Looks like a Blastmatch to me.

yes, it's a blastmatch (ding ding ding for Bramel!) with that Dave it's all self contained, the striker is built inside the housing, you just push the thing against what you want to burn and "sparks!!!"

And now for a completely different take on BOB's read this post by Tim May. Kinda makes sense to me.

http://www.preparednessnetwork.org/...amp;sid=4236acae84f45094f5f17bf3cf637497

That is an interesting case. It makes you think anyway.

dose make you think, indeed, I think we like the 'Red Dawn' senairo, beans and bullets vs. the commies. and it is much nicer to think of protecting your self from an invading army (commy or zombie) vs. your own government.

It is very interesting, another dimension to the B.O.B. but many of us are here because we believe bad things can happen and we'd like to be prepared, hurricanes in the south east, earthquakes and tsunami's in the west, tornado's in the mid west, black outs in the east, a flood, fire, or a skunk in or under the house! Last year thousands of people near me (St Louis) were without power for weeks because of storms, and a B.O.B. would have been nice.

I need to be prepared as much as I can, to have the things I may never need (I hope) like a gun a policeman never uses in his career. I do believe it is best to stay at home in most emergencies, if you can but sometimes you may not be able to, and the odds of that may not be high but having a B.O.B. for leaving and for using at home, and having the things I May need and could use.

For me, thinking bad things or the unexpected won't happen to me is foolish. At the very least I'll have good camping and hiking stuff!

I was real interested in most of his scenario, but as soon as he gets in to getting a fake ID made, and then renting storage space under that fake identity is a real dumbass idea, IMO. Try explaining to the cops that the reason that you're renting w/ a fake identity using an illegal ID and creating offshore bank accounts is "just in case" you're the victim of a government conspiracy... It'd make for a great movie (Conspiracy Theory w/ Mel Gibson was great!) but I'd really suggest that no one goes out creating a 2nd identity in case "the man" strikes.

I do agree w/ a lot of his ideas though, about cash, food, guns, camping gear... (the bank account isn't a BAD idea, but you might as well just use cash) - basically one of "our" bug out bags, but make sure to have plenty of cash and calling cards, which is something that Ron mentioned in his list I believe.

Good link Ted - it really made me think!

One thing I always think about is if The POO really hit the fan, would cash really be that useful? And would the phone systems work?

severed ears...is the new cash.

and

smoke signals...are the new cell phone. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" />

What if one day the world ended up like the world of Mad Max?

All i know is im starting to build up my B.O.B. All these pages have great stuff and advice.

I just got ome of those county comm b.o.b's in coyote.
i likes it a bunch; have no clue what i am going to put in it at the moment.

I don't suppose, you have a picture of the actual bag itself......I always hate website pictures.

Nope, they have a shelf life of 25 days. See here: Forever Twinkies


What would make good currency in the worst situation would be things like: gold, silver, (small amounts like “junk” silver coins, can’t buy a loaf of bread with a gold bar) fishhooks, ammo, toilet paper, medical supplies, liquor, cigarettes, tools, nails, cordage, food, etc. Anything that someone would want to make life more comfortable, improve their way of life, feed their addictions and cravings, etc.

with a still, you could make liquor and ethenol and really do good!

if only in trade and services!

Yep, info is quite useful. Learn that kind of stuff now while you have access to information and materials. Alcohol can also be used for lighting, sterilization, drinking, fuel, fire starting, etc.

If a female may join the discussion, the BOB is one of my favorite topics.
We also use the dual BOB method. I personally use the Maxpedition Proteus and the old Baby Condor backpack. The proteus goes wherever I go.
I also agree with the importance of knives and firemaking. I keep multiples of each, both on my person and in each bag.
I like the idea of the braided paracord on the keychain... I will have to add that.
Thanks for the suggestion.

Welcome Lupa, always a pleasure to have all join in <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Lupa - Howdy and Welcome to the Scrap Yard! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" /> Please feel free to join in on our discussions, as all ideas are welcome. Personally, I like to see other people's ideas and then adapt them to my possible use. Same reason I keep a small library of survival related books - many ideas from different people from different locations. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> Tom

http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=484184

check this vid out it is great survival and survival kits, I like his delivery too.

That was a great video. I would of never thought of using pool chlorine to treat water. And the signaling device using some cord and a glow stick is realy cool to. Im glad i bought a few glow sticks for my kit.

Very great link.

Welcome to the Yard! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

thanks James that was pretty interesting <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Thank you for the welcome gentlemen.

I have thought about glow sticks for the kits. Now I have another practical application for it. Well, that decides it, glow sticks will be added.
Thanks.

My hot rod is ready to go.

I have some small lightsticks in My M6 Survival Kit that's in the sheath pocket. Click the link if you want to see the pics. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

Thanks for the link andy. I will be using some of your ideas.

nice setup Andy - I have glowsticks as well - great signals at night too (put one on the end of some 550 cord and swing it over your head)

No problem. I dunno if you've seen them before or not, but here's a link to a couple other of my small kits if you want more ideas:

My keychain "PSK"

My PSK (Lots of pics)

I really like your keychain psk. I have been thinking a lot about making one up. You have given me some ideas.
I want a small sak and a paracord braid too, but i have not worked out the details on them.
Thanks again.

Hey, Lupa,
welcome! Always nice to see a new face, or, name.

No problem, glad to help. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />