RE Factor Tactical’s Trauma Tape has been a hot product for them. The initial release of Trauma Tape was covered here but since that time, RE Factor Tactical has released a blog post that dives deeper into the features, function, and background of the product.
Read more about Trauma Tape: RE Factor Tactical Blog
It is pretty much standard for modern hiking packs to have water bottle pockets on one or both sides of the pack. However, many of these water bottle pockets are difficult to reach without stopping and taking your pack off which is why I either lash a bottle to my shoulder strap or carry one on the waist belt of my pack with an Outdoor Research Water Bottle Tote.
The Water Bottle Tote attaches to your pack via a hook and loop flap that is semi-rigid. This attachment system is versatile and fits a wide range of pack belts and webbing sizes or even your pants belt. I have been able to figure out an accessible and functional way to attach this pouch to every pack I have tried it with. The semi-rigid flap also seems to help the pouch bear weight without sagging.
It has proven to be very durable. I have used mine for years and, apart from some trail dust, you wouldn’t know it. It is also relatively light at 1.6 ounces. That isn’t exactly ultra light territory but it doesn’t cost like an ultralight pouch either.
It is sized well for most 1L bottles. I have even carried very tall, narrow bottles like the Smart Water bottles that I like to re-use for the trail. The cinch top allows the user to secure just about any bottle that will fit in the opening of the pouch.
Water bottle pouches are probably the least exciting thing you will read about all day but… This one is simple, versatile, durable, readily available, affordable, and it works. Believe it or not, that isn’t necessarily an easy-to-find combination of attributes for a water bottle pouch. This isn’t sexy gear but it is good, functional, and necessary gear (for me at least).
If you are lucky, you might be able to find these at a local outdoor retailer. If not, I bought mine from Amazon: OR Water Bottle Tote on Amazon. This is an affiliate link.
BMK Ventures is offering 20% off their already discounted prices on Para-X Treatment Tubes. These tubes contain proven components and are designed with versatile packaging so they can be stored in small spaces or repackaged in a pouch you provide. They have both the IFAK and Bleeder versions on sale. Use code “STB20%” at checkout to save.
Even the most basic scarf can be used in a lot of different ways but Tuff Possum Gear has added a couple of unique features that really earn the name Multipurpose Survival Scarf (MSS).
Their MSS is constructed from diamond ripstop nylon that is sewn into a tube with a closed end. The interior of the tube is lined with high visibility orange fabric so that they entire scarf may be turned inside out to serve as a visual signal. This closed end tube format allows the MSS to serve not only as a scarf but also as a number of other items like:
You can check out the Multipurpose Survival Scarf at the Tuff Possum Gear store.
There are a number of universal axe sheaths/masks on the market but many of them leave a lot to be desired. They often fit poorly which is dangerous with a sharp axe or they are difficult to install/remove which is also dangerous with a sharp axe.
Sagewood Gear’s Universal Axe Sheath is different. It is not as universal as some axe masks since it is actually available in sizes for many common axe bits. The various available sizes, coupled with the unique adjustable paracord retention strap and closure allow the end user to fine tune the fit to their specific axe.
The Universal Axe Sheath is made from 9-10oz Wickett and Craig Leather. The paracord retention strap can be protected from wear with a piece of included heat shrink wrap.
