I am a regular viewer, but I don't normally leave comments. This again is another well thought out collection of tools that cover all the bases and compliment each other. As a firefighter paramedic of almost 30 years, I'm glad you're putting a separate focus on a first aid kit and look forward to that presentation. It also is refreshing that this isn't just another ego driven "Tacticool" collection as we're often bombarded with by others. Great video. Great editing. Legitimate ideas and fantastic content.
Jon, I'd recommend adding three fairly cheap and lightweight items; a 55 to 60 gallon orange trash bag, a one gallon zip lock bag, and a large spool of unscented and waxed dental floss. The trash bag can be made into a backpack, or a tarp, or a poncho. I recommend orange because if you need to use it, you want to be as visible as possible. The ziplock bag can be used to store water or other loose gear, but you can also use it for SODIS; solar water disinfection. You can fill it with water and leave it in bright sunlight to use a combination of UV and pasteurization from solar heat to disinfect the water, so anything you can do to raise the temperature (leave it on a black or metallic surface in full sun) helps. The dental floss is actually your lightweight cordage; useful for setting up your emergency trash bag into a tarp or for lashing things together. Unscented is best as you can then also use it for trapping.
Trouble with SODIS is that you don't know when your water is safe to drink. I agree with the use of bags-its a great addition, but I'd carry purification tablets too, at little cost or weitgt
@@JonGadget add a flammable twine too tie dry sticks together(like the annoying ones that are too big to use as kindling but to small to last in a fire) to make a faux log
A Clipper lighter weighs less and offers pretty much the same functionality as the nanospark while also adding an open flame in a handy package. With the four grams saved you could add some tinder function. I've never had a BIC or Clipper lighter leak, as long as you secure the button somehow (zip-tie, a cap) it's good to go.
In my tiny travel pouch I use the pokey bit from a clipper (shout-out all the stoners out there) as a spare ignition source. It's way smaller then that Exothingy and you can get 2 mini clipper lighters from Poundland
Something I don’t ever see in anyone’s kit is a knife sharpener I always keep a small one in my EDC pouch. However this video has given me a lot of great ideas for additions I didn’t know I even needed. Thank you for the great content
I would include an emergency blanket. You could never have enough of them in a real emergency or survival situation. Even though their might be one in your first aid kit. For example: Use one as an improvised tarp/tent to block rain and wind and the other one around your body. There are more situations where you need more than one in your kit but I think you get the idea.
That's a great suggestion! Another useful item to consider for your outdoor adventure essentials is the HOTO Compressed Air Capsule. It offers powerful vacuuming and blowing capabilities, making it a versatile tool for maintaining a spotless environment in various settings, including your desk, car, and more. With its compact size and multiple accessories, it's perfect for road trips and outdoor activities. Plus, the long-lasting battery ensures worry-free travel. Check it out!
I was going to say this. The only thing missing was something for shelter. I'd really recommend an ultralight poncho, either a plastic pocket one that would fit in this case along with an emergency blanket or an ultralight poncho that will cover a pack and convert to a tarp. I have one made of silnylon. It wouldn't quite fit in this kit, though, so I'd have the pocket poncho ($
I carry similar,but much less expensive. Contact lens Case with a Vaseline soaked cotton ball on each side. Folded aluminum loaf pan ,to drink from ,gather water ,boil . A couple of jolly ranchers,mints or similar. 2 mini bics,one with a zip tie under the button. A mini golf pencil instead of sharpie. 2 large safety pins. Star flash micro signal mirror. Contact lens Case with 4 aspirin,2 ibuprofen and 2 Imodium. I pack mine in doubled ziplock bags.
Watching your videos for the past six months has sparked the idea of giving survival kits to some of my relatives this Christmas. A couple of days ago one of them mentioned they were planning a hiking trip soon so this video came at the perfect time. Thank you so much for showing me exactly what I need to outfit various kinds of kits for my loved ones. I anxiously await your upcoming first aid kit video. If it comes soon enough I'll add one of those too as Christmas gifts.
The battery provides only 3600 mAh at 5 Volts, since its 5000 mAh at 3.6V. Another way of looking at it is 18,000 mWh, or 18 watt hours. Although it seems sneaky to consumers, it's still a very nice and modular system, and if you're going where it matters you'd probably have a more primary charger or spares. Thanks for the video!
Others have covered most of my thoughts on another well done kit and video. As my primary flashlight has become one of the Nitecore Intelligent lights, I’ve made the same backup power bank solution part of my kit a couple months ago. I have changed my note solution from waterproof paper to Post-It Extreme stick on notes. Now my paper doubles as trailer markers, etc.
1. Pair of Surgical Gloves(Blue) or Work Gloves (black).. plus can can be used as an Inflatable Water carrier... 2. Safety Ear plugs.. good to keep rain water out when walking in rain 3. 2 Mosquito Mats (old 80's technology) pccked in silver or tin packing.... good for those summer days in the woods. 4. 2 sachets of 2in1 coffee/dry milk and tea... just boil and drink. 5. Repair kit for eyewear. 6. water proof foldable map of the area. 7. 5 foot of pocket gause and sissor. 8. Wallet Ninja multi-tool 9. 3 pocket zip lock bags 10. odorless babywipes kept in a tin pill box (can be used to light a fire)
I watched the firelighting part of your video and I started to think about what I could use as a fire starter instead of a commercial product. I decided to experiment with a vial of olive oil. Pour onto wood to help it catch fire. Add a wick and it becomes an oil lamp. The oil can be used for dry skin or for "oil pulling" mouth rinse for dental hygiene or to keep iron tools from rusting. Also some healthy calories for energy!
I also carry a Victorinox Walker outdoor. I've recently replaced the toothpick with a firefly rod and now have the perfect light backpacking knife... I call it the Firewalker! 😄🔥🔪
I'm loving the "see it in action" segments. Watch out! it's Inspector Gadget at work! 🤣👍 Feedback: Fresnel lens Proper compass Paper map with topo lines Mechanical Pencil Solar panel based charging solution Poncho/tarp
Well thought out kit. I'd recommend adding an emergency blanket to this kind of pack. There are fairly light weight and compact options, that fit in the back pocket. It can also be used to improvise a simple shelter or rain cover in an emergency. But there's probably one in your first aid kit i presume.
Most often these types of kits are used when you drop your main pack and wonder a bit. Or you run off from a vehicle to do a bit of spotting. How often do people get lost in these types of situations is pretty amazing, and this is often when things go wrong due to panic and anxiety and why we create small 'back ups' like this. Most do not always think of carrying a proper medical kit in these less risky situations do they. Why I try to consider this always. So, as I think your kit is great, there are a few things for me quite essential and what I seem to use most often. No matter how small a kit I try to incorporate them. A decent antiseptic wipe, a dime size add water towel, a white cotten hankerchief, and a packet of blood stop. Right there I could treat the average wound, and have...and wrap it if necessary without ripping up dirty clothing. Most of all stop bleeding, even in the nose and mouth. You have the glue which is part of my set up as well but glue does not work well on some wounds until bleeding stops a bit. The hankerchief doubles as a prefilter for the water filter straw as well for lengthing the life of the straw and preventing clogs. If something enters an eye you can use the cloth to flush it out. I keep mine prestine, sterile and wrapped in a thick mil zip of the proper size and it slips in pockets beautifully. Last thing is I add a water bag and these are found in all kits and a few water pure tabs incase the filter breaks. I match the tabs to the size of the bag in ounces. Last is a length of Kevlar or some kind of strong cord alternative. I like sport fishing line for large ocean fish. I can fit so many feet in a small kit! It works brillant and does not stretch. I keep a either a small tarp by One Wind, so a very pocket friendly item I use to sit on often or the rain poncho tarp by One Wind (a bit more bulky but still doable) in my jacket pocket. The line works well to turn either into a small overhead rain or sun shelter amoung other things. Cord is just so important, and would fit in your kit well I guarantee and just a must. Most use a thick mil trash bag for the shelter part but since I use mine often and my One Wind tarp actually fits in my kit, I keep it there so I know I have it always. I use the back slip pockets in that same Max. I use flat cards to wrap my tape, thread and needle and carry a mini sharpie and a much smaller star flash signal mirror and an Aquamira Frontier Pro straw which looks a bit smaller. My back up battery is thin and flat too, but yours looks interesting. (Although that three stage straw looks appealing and something I may have to check out.) All else is the exact same as yours. I keep an ICE card in the front mesh pocket of the Max
Very minor correction but the Walker (which is a great knife BTW and my knife of choice for day hikes with a Huntsman for longer trips) is an 84mm knife, not 91mm, As a cheap backup fire starter I carry a pack of matches and striker from British miltary ration packs, 5 come in a plastic bag sealed against contamination and they're waterproof anyway. Also carry Hammaro tinder card, very similar to the tin you have, wax coated paper that comes in strips you can cut to size and carry in any pouch or zip-lock bag.
If you swap out the nano spark for a clipper lighter bit (flint/wheel) it will be much cheaper (£1 per lighter) and lighter (No pun intended) Then use cotton mixed with Vaseline for long lasting tinder
Excellent vid John, but I’d seriously recommend storing li-ion cells in some sort of protective case. Thermal runaway from a short is a pigging nightmare scenario, so why risk it? I’ve noticed this a lot in the EDC community. Battery safety is extremely important and seems to be overlooked when compared to other communities for whom lithium ion or lipo cells are a feature. Seriously dude, even a cell venting is awful. Whack it in a case mate, you’re making my nipsy twitch 😳😂
Thanks for the feedback - you make a good point - I am on a mission with this one for weight saving though - avoiding battery damage is worth pointing out though
The tinder can be cut into shorter pieces to extend the amounts of use. Fireplace starter sticks, are also cheap, easy to light, pre prepared , burn long, and weigh nothing. I personally would advise matches regardless of weight. It's negligible in regards to warmth. Turning small wheels with numb fingers is futile. Been there, done that. I'm far above the Arctic circle. We leave nothing to spare on ski/ tent trips in the mountains. Nice kit. Thanks for uploading. Cheers from Norway..
Found a few new things I’ll probably end up getting. I’m a fan of your well thought out videos, keep them coming! One thing I would suggest is a glow in the dark morale patch on the Velcro to help find the bag at night.
Huge thanks Jon, these vids are so informative and you bring a lot of interesting gadgets to light for us. I’ve helped others put numerous outdoor survival kits and microkits together and the one item that I rarely see talked about for signaling is including a pen sized, battery powered green laser light. These are slightly heavier than a AAA battery and can be seen for over 3 kilometers by day or over 10 at night and by a plane or ship. They are inexpensive at about $15. Just a suggestion
I like this suggestion. Along those lines check out the o-pen pro from olight. It's a nice pen with replaceable cartridges that includes a usb C rechargeable green laser/flashlight combo. Not the cheapest but you can get them for less during a flash sale.
Great kit! As an Elf of Lothlórien said to Sam: Never travel far without a rope! Suggestion: Dyneema 2m reflective cord, 1.5g/m, 10m weighs 15g. More versatile than tie wraps 😀.
I have the same Maxpedition pouch with pretty much the same gear - plus a few things - that I’ve carried with me everywhere for years. It’s the perfect emergency grab bag size. It’s small enough so you can always throw it in a bag, car, etc. Gear can’t help if it’s at home when you need it most. 🤙🏼
Fantastic ideas. I only question not carrying a lighter. Even without fuel, a Bic lighter gives off a spark as well as the nano spark. To me it’s a fun toy and not superior to the Bic.
Thanks for the feedback. The spark and distance it travels is impressive - much more than BIC - Clipper might be a better option as it has removable flint wheel....
Ive been carrying a bic on my bulky keys for years and it has never failed me and if it does i have another in my pouch and tinder card in my wallet which will catch a spark from an empty bic and my lighter is wrapped with gorilla tape a flame extender
I like the TG90 portable power bank. 6000 mah. .64 oz. Slim design. Has its own usb c and lightning connectors. Charges with usb c. Even has a small integral led flashlight. It fits nicely in the back pocket of the maxpedition pouch. If you add a micro USB adapter it will charge anything. I usually have it in my pocket nearly every day. You may have reviewed at one time it is a great piece of kit
Thanks for the feedback. In use, Nanospark gives off a lot of sparks and they travel quite far - much more than a BIC - a Clipper could be a good compromise with removable flint wheel.
@@JonGadget i tested them side by side and an empty bic with the fire guard off works just as well for fluffy tinder. And you could add a ranger band to prevent leakage or some paracord
With all the stuff I already have around this subject, I still feel myself wanting everything you have mentioned here! A very well thought-out video; thank you!
I've spent hundreds of days living in austere conditions, so this kind of kit is right up my street! I would strongly recommend adding a couple of mini-bic lighters as a primary firelighting source. I've also successfully used waterproof matches that have got damp, and would definitely rather have either over the nanospark. I was interested in the ripspool until I saw the cost.... £40 for something I could put together for a tenner (albeit not as aesthetically pleasing). Most electrical/ repair tape is pretty flammable, so you can also use it as a form of tinder. My go-to battery pack is the Nitecore NB10000, as I don't mind carry an extra 50g for double the capacity over the F21i. The obvious omissions are a form of shelter (e.g. survival blanket, which I know you mention is in your FAK) and container for water (e.g. plastic bag).
Nice mini bag. I carry a sling bag I throw in my truck when I walk out the door. It has all these things (including those zip ties which I go thru very often) along with a few other things I have room for. A fixed blade knife A protein bar A rain poncho Emergency blankie First aid kit Extra glasses Long titanium spoon & fork Small pliers Fire kit
I carry very similar, but have 8 lifeboat matches, lightweight, waterproof, windproof, burns underwater , burn for 10-15 seconds and then the coal is sufficient to light a fire for about 20 seconds , and they last years....I recently found in my mothers attic a combat jacket with a tobacco tin i carried in the 80's in Service with my emergency kit in it, the lifeboat matches struck first time and burned without a problem. the Live fire tin you have would carry 8 matches. The knife .. You could carry a locking Swiss army knife or other, as you have "just cause" as part of your hiking kit , which would be a safer user in a stress situation
A good attempt with some major caveats: 1) Redundancy is key for certain essential items in the outdoors, like cutting tools or the ability to make fire. Mini BIC lighters are small, light (11g), very reliable and don't leak gas. There are also UL waterproof containers for matches. Some people even carry a plastic Fresnel lens that only weights 2g. So the excuses not to carry at least 2-3 fire making items due to weight and bulk are pointless. 2) Whistle should be on a lanyard hanging from your neck or at least from your backpack shoulder strap. Easily accesible in case of an emergency. Not inside a zippered pouch buried at the bottom of your backpack. 3) A SAK knife without a means of sharpening it will be dull and useless very soon, specially when considering the steel used by Victorinox. A small diamond/ceramic sharpening stone should be included. Victorinox makes a pen-shaped light one.
Shut up and take my money! Memes aside, this is by FAR the best miniature kit I've seen! Most others have maybe one item I'd consider buying, but this one has nothing I dislike! I'd love to see you create a mini-bug-out bag. My idea about it: 1) centerpiece: a canteen with a fitting cup. Both can be used for cooking 2) small fire kit with foldable hobostove, storm matches, and tinder; personally, I love blue flame lighters and found them fairly reliable, but a backup is necessary 3) something to filter water 4) a compass, a pen, and waterproof notes 5) that ultra-compact blanket, typically silver and bright orange, is useful for heat retention; maybe another compact one that can be used for shelter 6) miscellaneous: paracord, ductape, lightweight pegs, maybe something additional for repair, poaching (snares), or fishing I didn't include a knife, because, just like clothes, I do think everyone should carry one anyway. First aid, is another topic as well... I wouldn't be surprised if you could improve on the concept considerably. Anyway, I'm still planning on what I'd put together...
I have only one recomendation, please do not forget about the safety with Li-ion batteries and use some sort of isolating sleeve or caps on terminals of this 21700 battery. A lot of people forgets how dangerous is venting or explosions of this type of batteries and it's not easy to put out. The rest is perfect 👌 always top notch stuff from you
Just one note about those lifestraws. They don't filter out viruses, so if you have any concern around those, you'd need to filter into a separate container and then boil (check the altitude you're at, as higher altitudes require a longer boiling time). :) Another great video!
Great video. If you are wanting a Sharpie, I'd like to suggest replacing your regular one with the Sharpie Extreme. It will be a bit more suitable for your needs.
Excellent video Jon. I’m going to build one exactly like it. I’ll include a Garmin InReach mini the outside pouch as I’m frequently in no cellular service areas.
Another awesome kit for the trail!! I would recommend a laminated card with your most personal emergency contacts and medical conditions/allergies in the event of an awful emergency where you may be found unresponsive
Typically, that would go in the FAK and out the top or front pocket of your pack. I have that info on a RoadID attached to my watch band. There's also a phone number for medical personnel to get access to my medical information and advanced directive.
Another absolutely winning video. I am the DIYer of EDC solutions and always get new ideas from your videos. As a lifetime backpacker, I appreciate the distinctions you make between “city edc” and that which needs to be lightweight. 🌿
@@JonGadget Excellent kit john . It's not often I watch a kit video which I can't improve upon . Superbly designed kit sir... Really impressive. Thanks .much appreciated.
Some type of highly visible way to mark your trail is a must. A long section of thin blaze orange or reflective ribbon weighs almost nothing and takes up little space. Incredibly useful search and rescue, especially when combined with the note pad and sharpie to indicate who you are and your heading. It's very easy to walk right past a footprint or some other sign without noticing despite being within spitting distance. You don't miss a neon colored or reflective marker though.
Colored chalk would be a better, more ecologically sound option. Equally visible in the short term, but not something that lay around endangering trees and animals for decades or centuries.
@@lskazalski Being ecological in a survival situation??? Let a deer choke on a ribbon if it saves a human life. Ribbons work very well for marking a path and can be used for a multitude of other purposes in an emergency.
I almost immediately went to purchase the InCharge X but after reading the reviews most of them are straight up trash. Now I'm nervous making the purchase. Another great kit though, thank you for sharing.
The magnifying glass can also be used as a die lighting device, also an opined no5 is lighter than the victorinox and great for throwing sparks and is uk legal, I also keep some water purification tablets close by. Another ideal thing is the olight 3e eos which I have on a clip so I can clip to my hat peak and it is really small and takes a aaa battery which o can fit an extra four of in my bag in the space that a proper headlamp would take up and aaa batteries are easy enough to get hold of whereas if you have a rechargeable light you’re knackered if you lose the cable. I couldn’t afford the stitching kit so I made my own using a sharpie and wrapping it with duck tape and cord and putting a few needles and pins under the edge of the tape
I have to keep coming back and watching to make sure I know what is in the kit when I buy the stuff from the links. For myself I am mixing items from this kit with items from your other kit that fits m6 needs. Thanks so much.
Great video Jon. I used the same pack for an EDC kit based on your other video. I discovered that the Sharpie Mini actually fits perfectly through the Maxpedition label on the inside top left of the pack. It holds it nicely in place and frees up some space.
Thanks for a great vid. I've carried an Acme Tornado whistle on my key ring for years and it's still in great condition. I found an easy way to carry around duct tape was to wrap a length of it around an old credit card (preferable one without embossed numbers). It is nice and slim.
I just found your video and enjoyed watching it. Very well thought out and no frills added. After reading several of the comments, I personally would add a few of the items that were suggested being mindful of any added bulk and weight. I live in the US and it is great to see/hear your take. Thank you.
{{3}}I absolutely agree with you! The wood saw in Victorinox knives is truly impressive and makes outdoor adventures so much easier. By the way, have you heard about the new product called freebeat Morph 2-in-1 e-Bike? It's a revolutionary eBike that combines indoor fitness and outdoor exploration like never before. One of its outstanding features is the ability to be charged when you apply indoor mode. Isn't that amazing? It's definitely worth checking out if you're into ebikes and want a versatile riding experience.
The nitecore bank is a great idea. Would be super handy if you have a nitecore torch that takes the same battery. Imagine if someone made something similar that took any battery 🤯😍 The Nebo Mycro 500+ is my current head torch. The clip allows the user to clip it to a cap peak, molle or clothing etc.
You can make your own nano spark from an empty cricket style lighter and an oring. The victorinox ferro fits inside with your variety selection of tinder materials.
Excellent little kit, very well thought out. For pouches I have been enamoured with Baribal from Poland, they offer a wide range of high quality pouches, which are highly customisable.
Like the kit. If you were travelling in a tropical area I would suggest upgrading the water filter to something that would filter out viruses. (I don't know what maker/model would be the smallest/lightest.)
I believe the Nitecore F21i has been discontinued, perhaps an alternative would be the Combo: Nitecore Intelligent Battery System MPB21 KIT: 3-in-1 Light, Charger & Powerbank w/2x Extra NL2150HPi Battery. As for the compass, you should also include some sort of physical map, so you can correlate where you are headed to where you want to be. Topographic map would be preferred. I would also take a bit of wire, a couple of meters would be sufficent.
I was once out sightseeing with a friend who took his dog. The leash broken & I pulled out the 10' length of paracord & we rigged up the broken lead to the dog's harness. He agreed to make his own EDC Outdoor Kit based on your concepts.
Always loved your videos Jon! Love this kit too. I’ve just discovered the Sharpie ‘Twin Tip’ pens and they’re another game-changing piece of equipment for my kits. They’re especially handy if you have a small notebook like the one in this video to write in as the smaller tip is like a standard pen. It saves that extra bit of space in your kits. I bought a 12-pack off Amazon in the Black Friday deal for £9 (usually £18 I believe) and they’re now dispersed across various kits. Anyway, thanks for the great content and keep it coming!
Are you referring to the twin tip markers? Because Sharpie also makes ballpoint pens. If there exist a twin tip sharpie marker and ball point pen I'd love to get some but I could only find the fine/ultra fine markers.
great video. Really like how clean it looks. There are too many videos out there with kits, that needs a full size studio for unpacking to get to something deep in the bottom of it. Not sure what they would do with it, while standing in a river or forest and with heavy rain.
I appreciate it’s a lighter weight kit and I quite like the Nano Spark but I tend to carry in my pouch a small fero rod, 2 tiny tampons and a chapstick. That is obviously bulkier but will start quite a few fires when needed. Plus a baby bic with the gas release button suppressed with an elastic band takes no room. I’d feel uncomfortable with that Nabo being my only fire method.
Good to see a well thought out, realistic kit using quality (if expensive!) components...I love the fact you face included a quality compass not the usual junky Chinese button compass so many use. I would however urge you to secure it better in the kit as it is begging to go missing if you open the pack with less than 100% attention. I also love the inclusion of a god quality head lamp...in the pouch itself, I would add a couple of largish zip loc bags as they take no space at all, and although you prefer to keep first aid sperate, I would include a strip of Imodium tablets, but that's speaking from personal experience! Edited to add seeing that you wear glasses, you should add one or two of those tiny screwdrivers for tightening the screws on the arms of your specs...I bet one would fit in the sewing kit...
You need something for cuts, plasters or tape, you have a lot of edge situations covered like ticks, but not common issues like scratch, cut or infection
I have most of the gear in your kit already. But that nitecord power bank is brilliant. Off to find one in Australia. Sad Victorinox discontinued the walker. Best kit knife ever IMHO.
You should throw in 2-3 condoms. They are tiny portable water bags (holding 1-2 liter each), food carrier Firestarter, slingshot, makeshift glove, fishing line bobber, flotation device, wound seal if you cut off the end, tourniquet, and probably a few other things.
All well and good but the price of some of these items is hair-raising: 6 UKP for a mirror. Part of being an outdoorsman is to be able to improvise and much of this equipment can be substituted by less expensive everyday items or left out altogether if weight is a consideration.
Charmast Mini USB C Power Bank 5000mAh 92 Grams (USB C or Apple) Cheap Chinese brand however more compact and connects directly to c-port without the need for USB cables The best thing is it also has pass-through charging Perfect for EDC
Nice kit! As far as a lighter charger/power bank, check out Nitecore’s Intelligent Battery System. It’s a kit that comes with a light, which you could exclude from your system. But, it also comes with a magnetic end cap for the battery that incorporates both the charging and power delivery. That end cap is even smaller and lighter!
I agree with carrying a fire steel and all that, but bic lighters are so reliable and a mini Bic takes almost no space up and weighs next to nothing. I have found old Bic lighters buried in my yard that have probably been there for years that are all rusted and they’ve lit up the first time. If you fall in a river in Alaska the last thing you want to do is have to try to work out a fire with a fire steel if you don’t have to. I’m not sure how cold the waters get in great Britain but still I wouldn’t want to deal with a fire steel if I didn’t have to in an emergency. But everybody’s got their own ideas of what works for them. I know it’s the Ecotac striker thing which is easier than a Firesteel, but still requires a little bit of preparation as opposed to a lighter.
Fair point but I was keen to simplify this as much as possible to avoid clutter - and double down on reliability - as shown in the demo - the nano spark works well and will never leak or be accidentally pressed etc.
Wow. You packed a lot in there good job.I do like that live fire tin 👍👍. Does anyone else still use Vaseline and cotton balls for mini flame ? They do come in handy in the middle of the woods. I used your link to order that expedition thing. Good find. Under 20 bucks, excellent. Good job John I do like that Roroxyvon eight as well or aurora or whatever it’s called
Great video as usual! I use the Anker PowerCore 5000 as my EDC powerbank. It weighs 136 grams/4.8 oz. For me that's a better solution than the Nitecore F21i since its only one solid thing to carry. It dosen't hurt that it's also more than half the price of the Nitecore, atleast here in Sweden. :)
Just found your channel and been good to watch but I felt I “must” leave a comment the battery for your power bank need’s a silicone cover Iv worked with lithium ion high drain batteries for some years and have seen the damage they can do if they short “they will flair and won’t go out until they burn out so will carry on under water or smothered in sand and some times even pop as the burning pressure builds up” you can get what we called battery condoms basically a silicone cover with a long hole in the side to set the battery in and cover the ends from any metallic objects that happen to come loose it’s a easy mistake but one Iv seen the results of and skin graphs houses burning etc is not worth ignoring for the sake of a 99p bit of silicone anyway I’m going to calm myself down after freaking out seeing the battery loose in your pouch and will come back to watch more episodes after 😅 keep up the good work with finding the gems and ideas though Iv been enjoying that 👍🏻
Instead of the Nitecore battery, I would go for one from Acebeam with an integrated USB-C connection. There is also the EDC bulb from Acebeam, which is simply plugged into the battery. So you have an additional lantern and it's still lighter than the Nitecore solution.
Were you thinking H30? Nice option but would end up heavier I think and if you need recharging and the light as well you would have less power available.
@@roylerroycerickson There are now many rechargeable batteries with a built-in USB-C port that can also be used as a power bank. The smallest is a 18350 from Manker with 1100mAh. The ACEBEAM IMR21700NP-510A also has the advantage that the EDC Bulb is available for $4. The Thrunite TS1 / TS2 would also be a possibility
You're sleeping on binder clips. They are the most widely useful things I have ever come across. Every pack and every room in your house should have a handful.
A ferro rod or ferro sparker is a great long term method for getting a fire going, however, many people seem to be under the impression they are a good reliable way to make a fire in an emergency. They aren't. For an emergency EDC kit - Pack a lighter along with fire starter. As a backup, pack another lighter or storm-proof matches. I will bet money to someone to light a fire in a damp environment with natural material with one of those toy ferro rods or sparkers.
This spark combined with the Live Fire in this kit beats the spark combined with gas (a lighter) for extended use to get a fire going - and has the benefit of not leaking over time and not burning your thumb when keeping the flame going for minutes on end (which would kill the gas quickly anyway).
@@JonGadget I do agree lighters can be fussy and can leak. I have no doubt a sparker and live fire works well but I would say a lighter and live fire would work just as well and a lighter would work in many situations a sparker wouldn't such as not having an accelerant like live fire (try lighting even paper with a sparker). Lighters are also useful for other tasks. It takes a lot of time and skill to locate and process tinder that can take a spark from even a proper ferro rod. Always good to have redundancy but the expert survivalists almost universally agree a lighter should be your go to in an emergency situation - which is what these kits are for. I appreciate your feedback.
I am a regular viewer, but I don't normally leave comments. This again is another well thought out collection of tools that cover all the bases and compliment each other. As a firefighter paramedic of almost 30 years, I'm glad you're putting a separate focus on a first aid kit and look forward to that presentation. It also is refreshing that this isn't just another ego driven "Tacticool" collection as we're often bombarded with by others. Great video. Great editing. Legitimate ideas and fantastic content.
Thank you so much for the feedback. This is really appreciated - even more so considering your profession. Thanks again.
*complement 😂 sorry
@@crapimk1552 still wrong😂 it was right😂
@@alanmacfarlane8887 😂no I'm write your rong
Ya this guy's pro
Jon, I'd recommend adding three fairly cheap and lightweight items; a 55 to 60 gallon orange trash bag, a one gallon zip lock bag, and a large spool of unscented and waxed dental floss. The trash bag can be made into a backpack, or a tarp, or a poncho. I recommend orange because if you need to use it, you want to be as visible as possible. The ziplock bag can be used to store water or other loose gear, but you can also use it for SODIS; solar water disinfection. You can fill it with water and leave it in bright sunlight to use a combination of UV and pasteurization from solar heat to disinfect the water, so anything you can do to raise the temperature (leave it on a black or metallic surface in full sun) helps. The dental floss is actually your lightweight cordage; useful for setting up your emergency trash bag into a tarp or for lashing things together. Unscented is best as you can then also use it for trapping.
I have a spool of Dyneema "floss".
Thanks for taking the time to feedback with the great suggestions.
Trouble with SODIS is that you don't know when your water is safe to drink. I agree with the use of bags-its a great addition, but I'd carry purification tablets too, at little cost or weitgt
@@JonGadget add a flammable twine too tie dry sticks together(like the annoying ones that are too big to use as kindling but to small to last in a fire) to make a faux log
Be careful of the dental floss you choose, some breaks too easily
The addition of cotton balls soaked in petroleum jelly would be good
I suggest you add one of those silver blanket things.
A Clipper lighter weighs less and offers pretty much the same functionality as the nanospark while also adding an open flame in a handy package. With the four grams saved you could add some tinder function. I've never had a BIC or Clipper lighter leak, as long as you secure the button somehow (zip-tie, a cap) it's good to go.
In my tiny travel pouch I use the pokey bit from a clipper (shout-out all the stoners out there) as a spare ignition source.
It's way smaller then that Exothingy and you can get 2 mini clipper lighters from Poundland
Something I don’t ever see in anyone’s kit is a knife sharpener I always keep a small one in my EDC pouch. However this video has given me a lot of great ideas for additions I didn’t know I even needed. Thank you for the great content
I have a small knife sharpener in my kit. It's just a small whetstone, but for a pocket knife, it does just fine.
I would include an emergency blanket. You could never have enough of them in a real emergency or survival situation. Even though their might be one in your first aid kit. For example: Use one as an improvised tarp/tent to block rain and wind and the other one around your body. There are more situations where you need more than one in your kit but I think you get the idea.
Thanks for the feedback - yes, this features in the FAK
That's a great suggestion! Another useful item to consider for your outdoor adventure essentials is the HOTO Compressed Air Capsule. It offers powerful vacuuming and blowing capabilities, making it a versatile tool for maintaining a spotless environment in various settings, including your desk, car, and more. With its compact size and multiple accessories, it's perfect for road trips and outdoor activities. Plus, the long-lasting battery ensures worry-free travel. Check it out!
@@innovativeadvertising6463begone bot
I was going to say this. The only thing missing was something for shelter. I'd really recommend an ultralight poncho, either a plastic pocket one that would fit in this case along with an emergency blanket or an ultralight poncho that will cover a pack and convert to a tarp. I have one made of silnylon. It wouldn't quite fit in this kit, though, so I'd have the pocket poncho ($
I carry similar,but much less expensive.
Contact lens Case with a Vaseline soaked cotton ball on each side.
Folded aluminum loaf pan ,to drink from ,gather water ,boil .
A couple of jolly ranchers,mints or similar.
2 mini bics,one with a zip tie under the button.
A mini golf pencil instead of sharpie.
2 large safety pins.
Star flash micro signal mirror.
Contact lens Case with 4 aspirin,2 ibuprofen and 2 Imodium.
I pack mine in doubled ziplock bags.
Watching your videos for the past six months has sparked the idea of giving survival kits to some of my relatives this Christmas. A couple of days ago one of them mentioned they were planning a hiking trip soon so this video came at the perfect time. Thank you so much for showing me exactly what I need to outfit various kinds of kits for my loved ones. I anxiously await your upcoming first aid kit video. If it comes soon enough I'll add one of those too as Christmas gifts.
The battery provides only 3600 mAh at 5 Volts, since its 5000 mAh at 3.6V. Another way of looking at it is 18,000 mWh, or 18 watt hours. Although it seems sneaky to consumers, it's still a very nice and modular system, and if you're going where it matters you'd probably have a more primary charger or spares. Thanks for the video!
Others have covered most of my thoughts on another well done kit and video. As my primary flashlight has become one of the Nitecore Intelligent lights, I’ve made the same backup power bank solution part of my kit a couple months ago. I have changed my note solution from waterproof paper to Post-It Extreme stick on notes. Now my paper doubles as trailer markers, etc.
good stuff Doug - thanks for sharing.
1. Pair of Surgical Gloves(Blue) or Work Gloves (black).. plus can can be used as an Inflatable Water carrier...
2. Safety Ear plugs.. good to keep rain water out when walking in rain
3. 2 Mosquito Mats (old 80's technology) pccked in silver or tin packing.... good for those summer days in the woods.
4. 2 sachets of 2in1 coffee/dry milk and tea... just boil and drink.
5. Repair kit for eyewear.
6. water proof foldable map of the area.
7. 5 foot of pocket gause and sissor.
8. Wallet Ninja multi-tool
9. 3 pocket zip lock bags
10. odorless babywipes kept in a tin pill box (can be used to light a fire)
Gloves are a great idea, just added some to my kit
I watched the firelighting part of your video and I started to think about what I could use as a fire starter instead of a commercial product. I decided to experiment with a vial of olive oil. Pour onto wood to help it catch fire. Add a wick and it becomes an oil lamp. The oil can be used for dry skin or for "oil pulling" mouth rinse for dental hygiene or to keep iron tools from rusting. Also some healthy calories for energy!
I also carry a Victorinox Walker outdoor. I've recently replaced the toothpick with a firefly rod and now have the perfect light backpacking knife... I call it the Firewalker! 😄🔥🔪
Great kit. This is my favourite category of videos you make, no one else is on this level.
Really good to hear. Thanks for the feedback. I really enjoy these too. There is a lot of planning and research which makes it hard to do too often!
Same exlerience so far thats how it seems
Nice kit, like how you explained in detail each item and not just said what they were.
I'm loving the "see it in action" segments. Watch out! it's Inspector Gadget at work! 🤣👍
Feedback:
Fresnel lens
Proper compass
Paper map with topo lines
Mechanical Pencil
Solar panel based charging solution
Poncho/tarp
Thanks for the feedback and suggestions 👍
Well thought out kit. I'd recommend adding an emergency blanket to this kind of pack. There are fairly light weight and compact options, that fit in the back pocket. It can also be used to improvise a simple shelter or rain cover in an emergency. But there's probably one in your first aid kit i presume.
Most often these types of kits are used when you drop your main pack and wonder a bit. Or you run off from a vehicle to do a bit of spotting. How often do people get lost in these types of situations is pretty amazing, and this is often when things go wrong due to panic and anxiety and why we create small 'back ups' like this. Most do not always think of carrying a proper medical kit in these less risky situations do they. Why I try to consider this always.
So, as I think your kit is great, there are a few things for me quite essential and what I seem to use most often. No matter how small a kit I try to incorporate them. A decent antiseptic wipe, a dime size add water towel, a white cotten hankerchief, and a packet of blood stop. Right there I could treat the average wound, and have...and wrap it if necessary without ripping up dirty clothing. Most of all stop bleeding, even in the nose and mouth. You have the glue which is part of my set up as well but glue does not work well on some wounds until bleeding stops a bit. The hankerchief doubles as a prefilter for the water filter straw as well for lengthing the life of the straw and preventing clogs. If something enters an eye you can use the cloth to flush it out. I keep mine prestine, sterile and wrapped in a thick mil zip of the proper size and it slips in pockets beautifully. Last thing is I add a water bag and these are found in all kits and a few water pure tabs incase the filter breaks. I match the tabs to the size of the bag in ounces.
Last is a length of Kevlar or some kind of strong cord alternative. I like sport fishing line for large ocean fish. I can fit so many feet in a small kit! It works brillant and does not stretch. I keep a either a small tarp by One Wind, so a very pocket friendly item I use to sit on often or the rain poncho tarp by One Wind (a bit more bulky but still doable) in my jacket pocket. The line works well to turn either into a small overhead rain or sun shelter amoung other things. Cord is just so important, and would fit in your kit well I guarantee and just a must.
Most use a thick mil trash bag for the shelter part but since I use mine often and my One Wind tarp actually fits in my kit, I keep it there so I know I have it always. I use the back slip pockets in that same Max. I use flat cards to wrap my tape, thread and needle and carry a mini sharpie and a much smaller star flash signal mirror and an Aquamira Frontier Pro straw which looks a bit smaller. My back up battery is thin and flat too, but yours looks interesting.
(Although that three stage straw looks appealing and something I may have to check out.)
All else is the exact same as yours. I keep an ICE card in the front mesh pocket of the Max
Very minor correction but the Walker (which is a great knife BTW and my knife of choice for day hikes with a Huntsman for longer trips) is an 84mm knife, not 91mm,
As a cheap backup fire starter I carry a pack of matches and striker from British miltary ration packs, 5 come in a plastic bag sealed against contamination and they're waterproof anyway. Also carry Hammaro tinder card, very similar to the tin you have, wax coated paper that comes in strips you can cut to size and carry in any pouch or zip-lock bag.
You are right - it is 84mm - sorry for getting that wrong! Thanks for suggestions 👍
Nice kit. I'd add a heavy duty quart freezer baggie to make filter straw easier to use, just in case, as backup water carrier.
good idea 👍
If you swap out the nano spark for a clipper lighter bit (flint/wheel) it will be much cheaper (£1 per lighter) and lighter (No pun intended) Then use cotton mixed with Vaseline for long lasting tinder
Excellent vid John, but I’d seriously recommend storing li-ion cells in some sort of protective case. Thermal runaway from a short is a pigging nightmare scenario, so why risk it? I’ve noticed this a lot in the EDC community. Battery safety is extremely important and seems to be overlooked when compared to other communities for whom lithium ion or lipo cells are a feature. Seriously dude, even a cell venting is awful. Whack it in a case mate, you’re making my nipsy twitch 😳😂
I vape. With external batteries and they are always, always in a case. I do not want them blowing me apart!
Thanks for the feedback - you make a good point - I am on a mission with this one for weight saving though - avoiding battery damage is worth pointing out though
That toothpick ferro rod is next level. Although I use that toothpick all the time. Might need to buy yet another Victorinox for my emergency kit.
😁👍
Great video! Just substitute that sparker for a mini Bic and it's perfect.
The tinder can be cut into shorter pieces to extend the amounts of use. Fireplace starter sticks, are also cheap, easy to light, pre prepared , burn long, and weigh nothing. I personally would advise matches regardless of weight. It's negligible in regards to warmth. Turning small wheels with numb fingers is futile. Been there, done that. I'm far above the Arctic circle. We leave nothing to spare on ski/ tent trips in the mountains. Nice kit. Thanks for uploading. Cheers from Norway..
Jon, checkout the travel card charger. It’s a credit card sized 3000 mAh travel charger. Useful to top up the phone in an emergency.
Found a few new things I’ll probably end up getting. I’m a fan of your well thought out videos, keep them coming! One thing I would suggest is a glow in the dark morale patch on the Velcro to help find the bag at night.
thanks for the kind feedback and great suggestion 👍
Huge thanks Jon, these vids are so informative and you bring a lot of interesting gadgets to light for us. I’ve helped others put numerous outdoor survival kits and microkits together and the one item that I rarely see talked about for signaling is including a pen sized, battery powered green laser light. These are slightly heavier than a AAA battery and can be seen for over 3 kilometers by day or over 10 at night and by a plane or ship. They are inexpensive at about $15. Just a suggestion
Thanks for the suggestion and kind comments - not thought about these before!
I like this suggestion. Along those lines check out the o-pen pro from olight. It's a nice pen with replaceable cartridges that includes a usb C rechargeable green laser/flashlight combo. Not the cheapest but you can get them for less during a flash sale.
Great kit! As an Elf of Lothlórien said to Sam: Never travel far without a rope! Suggestion: Dyneema 2m reflective cord, 1.5g/m, 10m weighs 15g. More versatile than tie wraps 😀.
Do you have a link do you mean 2mm?
Thanks for the suggestion 👍 there is cord in this kit though
I have the same Maxpedition pouch with pretty much the same gear - plus a few things - that I’ve carried with me everywhere for years. It’s the perfect emergency grab bag size. It’s small enough so you can always throw it in a bag, car, etc. Gear can’t help if it’s at home when you need it most. 🤙🏼
Thanks for sharing- good to hear 👍
Fantastic ideas. I only question not carrying a lighter. Even without fuel, a Bic lighter gives off a spark as well as the nano spark. To me it’s a fun toy and not superior to the Bic.
Thanks for the feedback. The spark and distance it travels is impressive - much more than BIC - Clipper might be a better option as it has removable flint wheel....
A Bic lighter also works as an “applicator”.
Ive been carrying a bic on my bulky keys for years and it has never failed me and if it does i have another in my pouch and tinder card in my wallet which will catch a spark from an empty bic and my lighter is wrapped with gorilla tape a flame extender
I like the TG90 portable power bank. 6000 mah. .64 oz. Slim design. Has its own usb c and lightning connectors. Charges with usb c. Even has a small integral led flashlight. It fits nicely in the back pocket of the maxpedition pouch. If you add a micro USB adapter it will charge anything. I usually have it in my pocket nearly every day. You may have reviewed at one time it is a great piece of kit
Thanks for the feedback. In use, Nanospark gives off a lot of sparks and they travel quite far - much more than a BIC - a Clipper could be a good compromise with removable flint wheel.
Certainly a nice powerbank, but one of the criteria was "fast charging" or PD. the TG90 isn't PD compliant, and operates at 5v 2a max.
@@JonGadget i tested them side by side and an empty bic with the fire guard off works just as well for fluffy tinder. And you could add a ranger band to prevent leakage or some paracord
If you sweat a lot take a second base layer with you to change when reaching camp site.
With all the stuff I already have around this subject, I still feel myself wanting everything you have mentioned here! A very well thought-out video; thank you!
Thanks Kalo - appreciated
I've spent hundreds of days living in austere conditions, so this kind of kit is right up my street! I would strongly recommend adding a couple of mini-bic lighters as a primary firelighting source. I've also successfully used waterproof matches that have got damp, and would definitely rather have either over the nanospark. I was interested in the ripspool until I saw the cost.... £40 for something I could put together for a tenner (albeit not as aesthetically pleasing). Most electrical/ repair tape is pretty flammable, so you can also use it as a form of tinder. My go-to battery pack is the Nitecore NB10000, as I don't mind carry an extra 50g for double the capacity over the F21i. The obvious omissions are a form of shelter (e.g. survival blanket, which I know you mention is in your FAK) and container for water (e.g. plastic bag).
Nice mini bag. I carry a sling bag I throw in my truck when I walk out the door. It has all these things (including those zip ties which I go thru very often) along with a few other things I have room for.
A fixed blade knife
A protein bar
A rain poncho
Emergency blankie
First aid kit
Extra glasses
Long titanium spoon & fork
Small pliers
Fire kit
I carry very similar, but have 8 lifeboat matches, lightweight, waterproof, windproof, burns underwater , burn for 10-15 seconds and then the coal is sufficient to light a fire for about 20 seconds , and they last years....I recently found in my mothers attic a combat jacket with a tobacco tin i carried in the 80's in Service with my emergency kit in it, the lifeboat matches struck first time and burned without a problem. the Live fire tin you have would carry 8 matches. The knife .. You could carry a locking Swiss army knife or other, as you have "just cause" as part of your hiking kit , which would be a safer user in a stress situation
A good attempt with some major caveats:
1) Redundancy is key for certain essential items in the outdoors, like cutting tools or the ability to make fire. Mini BIC lighters are small, light (11g), very reliable and don't leak gas. There are also UL waterproof containers for matches. Some people even carry a plastic Fresnel lens that only weights 2g. So the excuses not to carry at least 2-3 fire making items due to weight and bulk are pointless.
2) Whistle should be on a lanyard hanging from your neck or at least from your backpack shoulder strap. Easily accesible in case of an emergency. Not inside a zippered pouch buried at the bottom of your backpack.
3) A SAK knife without a means of sharpening it will be dull and useless very soon, specially when considering the steel used by Victorinox. A small diamond/ceramic sharpening stone should be included. Victorinox makes a pen-shaped light one.
Shut up and take my money!
Memes aside, this is by FAR the best miniature kit I've seen! Most others have maybe one item I'd consider buying, but this one has nothing I dislike!
I'd love to see you create a mini-bug-out bag. My idea about it:
1) centerpiece: a canteen with a fitting cup. Both can be used for cooking
2) small fire kit with foldable hobostove, storm matches, and tinder; personally, I love blue flame lighters and found them fairly reliable, but a backup is necessary
3) something to filter water
4) a compass, a pen, and waterproof notes
5) that ultra-compact blanket, typically silver and bright orange, is useful for heat retention; maybe another compact one that can be used for shelter
6) miscellaneous: paracord, ductape, lightweight pegs, maybe something additional for repair, poaching (snares), or fishing
I didn't include a knife, because, just like clothes, I do think everyone should carry one anyway. First aid, is another topic as well...
I wouldn't be surprised if you could improve on the concept considerably. Anyway, I'm still planning on what I'd put together...
I like to add retroreflective tape or sticker to the rear of a signaling mirror. It can signal your location to searchlights at night.
nice idea
This is the best outdoor adventure kit I've ever seen, Thank you so much Jon.
I have only one recomendation, please do not forget about the safety with Li-ion batteries and use some sort of isolating sleeve or caps on terminals of this 21700 battery. A lot of people forgets how dangerous is venting or explosions of this type of batteries and it's not easy to put out. The rest is perfect 👌 always top notch stuff from you
Thanks for the feedback - I'll check to see what is out there with this in mind
I agree. That cell could very easily burn your house down uncapped
Just one note about those lifestraws. They don't filter out viruses, so if you have any concern around those, you'd need to filter into a separate container and then boil (check the altitude you're at, as higher altitudes require a longer boiling time). :) Another great video!
The higher you are, water boils at lower temperatures, so it boils quicker.
Great video. If you are wanting a Sharpie, I'd like to suggest replacing your regular one with the Sharpie Extreme. It will be a bit more suitable for your needs.
Excellent video Jon. I’m going to build one exactly like it. I’ll include a Garmin InReach mini the outside pouch as I’m frequently in no cellular service areas.
Nice simple kit. I always chuckle at some of the items people add to an outdoor kit eg. a flash drive
Another awesome kit for the trail!!
I would recommend a laminated card with your most personal emergency contacts and medical conditions/allergies in the event of an awful emergency where you may be found unresponsive
Typically, that would go in the FAK and out the top or front pocket of your pack. I have that info on a RoadID attached to my watch band. There's also a phone number for medical personnel to get access to my medical information and advanced directive.
Another absolutely winning video. I am the DIYer of EDC solutions and always get new ideas from your videos. As a lifetime backpacker, I appreciate the distinctions you make between “city edc” and that which needs to be lightweight. 🌿
Thanks for the kind feedback 👍
@@JonGadget
Excellent kit john .
It's not often I watch a kit video which I can't improve upon .
Superbly designed kit sir...
Really impressive.
Thanks .much appreciated.
Some type of highly visible way to mark your trail is a must. A long section of thin blaze orange or reflective ribbon weighs almost nothing and takes up little space.
Incredibly useful search and rescue, especially when combined with the note pad and sharpie to indicate who you are and your heading.
It's very easy to walk right past a footprint or some other sign without noticing despite being within spitting distance. You don't miss a neon colored or reflective marker though.
Colored chalk would be a better, more ecologically sound option. Equally visible in the short term, but not something that lay around endangering trees and animals for decades or centuries.
@@lskazalski Being ecological in a survival situation??? Let a deer choke on a ribbon if it saves a human life. Ribbons work very well for marking a path and can be used for a multitude of other purposes in an emergency.
@@lskazalski🤡
I’d love to see a video where you describe how you last used all of your EDC items.
good idea 👍 will think about this
I almost immediately went to purchase the InCharge X but after reading the reviews most of them are straight up trash. Now I'm nervous making the purchase. Another great kit though, thank you for sharing.
The magnifying glass can also be used as a die lighting device, also an opined no5 is lighter than the victorinox and great for throwing sparks and is uk legal, I also keep some water purification tablets close by. Another ideal thing is the olight 3e eos which I have on a clip so I can clip to my hat peak and it is really small and takes a aaa battery which o can fit an extra four of in my bag in the space that a proper headlamp would take up and aaa batteries are easy enough to get hold of whereas if you have a rechargeable light you’re knackered if you lose the cable. I couldn’t afford the stitching kit so I made my own using a sharpie and wrapping it with duck tape and cord and putting a few needles and pins under the edge of the tape
I have to keep coming back and watching to make sure I know what is in the kit when I buy the stuff from the links. For myself I am mixing items from this kit with items from your other kit that fits m6 needs. Thanks so much.
Great video Jon. I used the same pack for an EDC kit based on your other video. I discovered that the Sharpie Mini actually fits perfectly through the Maxpedition label on the inside top left of the pack. It holds it nicely in place and frees up some space.
I was looking for my Sharpie mini - but couldn't find it - a good option to reduce a bit of bulk and good location for it in the pouch 👍
Thanks for a great vid. I've carried an Acme Tornado whistle on my key ring for years and it's still in great condition. I found an easy way to carry around duct tape was to wrap a length of it around an old credit card (preferable one without embossed numbers). It is nice and slim.
You're welcome. I considered the flat tape option but cylindrical shape and longer appealed more.
I just found your video and enjoyed watching it. Very well thought out and no frills added. After reading several of the comments, I personally would add a few of the items that were suggested being mindful of any added bulk and weight. I live in the US and it is great to see/hear your take. Thank you.
The capability of the wood saw in Victorinox knives is pretty amazing. It's not just capable, but almost effortless in many woods.
{{3}}I absolutely agree with you! The wood saw in Victorinox knives is truly impressive and makes outdoor adventures so much easier. By the way, have you heard about the new product called freebeat Morph 2-in-1 e-Bike? It's a revolutionary eBike that combines indoor fitness and outdoor exploration like never before. One of its outstanding features is the ability to be charged when you apply indoor mode. Isn't that amazing? It's definitely worth checking out if you're into ebikes and want a versatile riding experience.
The nitecore bank is a great idea. Would be super handy if you have a nitecore torch that takes the same battery. Imagine if someone made something similar that took any battery 🤯😍
The Nebo Mycro 500+ is my current head torch. The clip allows the user to clip it to a cap peak, molle or clothing etc.
There are some head lights that provide a power bank feature - heavy though compared - and reduces options slightly
You can make your own nano spark from an empty cricket style lighter and an oring. The victorinox ferro fits inside with your variety selection of tinder materials.
Good suggestion. Nanospark is very lightweight and kicks out lots of sparks!
Excellent little kit, very well thought out. For pouches I have been enamoured with Baribal from Poland, they offer a wide range of high quality pouches, which are highly customisable.
I'll check it out - thanks for the suggestion
Being in the US, I enjoy watching UK based videos due to your different laws regarding knifes.
Like the kit. If you were travelling in a tropical area I would suggest upgrading the water filter to something that would filter out viruses. (I don't know what maker/model would be the smallest/lightest.)
Probably the best small kit I have seen on TH-cam, thanks!!
A chemlight and cordage can make a buzz saw to signal at night from a distance. Skills to use all these tools will also be helpful, and cardio.
I believe the Nitecore F21i has been discontinued, perhaps an alternative would be the Combo: Nitecore Intelligent Battery System MPB21 KIT: 3-in-1 Light, Charger & Powerbank w/2x Extra NL2150HPi Battery. As for the compass, you should also include some sort of physical map, so you can correlate where you are headed to where you want to be. Topographic map would be preferred. I would also take a bit of wire, a couple of meters would be sufficent.
Here is a suggestion for weight reduction, switch the Sharpie with a mini Sharpie with a convenient cap clip, I find them usually under $1
Yes. Very small difference as small has a metal attachment! In UK they cost a lot more too!
Thanks John, I really enjoy the EDC series. I still enjoy the comparisons by item but something about a curated EDC appeals to me more.
Thank you - good to know
I have been trying to find a UK outlet that sells Firefly units rather than Fire Ant units that Victorinox supply.
You're an absolute blessing, Jon!
Love your channel. You could probably squeeze in a whirlepak bag for water collection at almost no weight cost.
Thank you - and great suggestion
I was once out sightseeing with a friend who took his dog. The leash broken & I pulled out the 10' length of paracord & we rigged up the broken lead to the dog's harness. He agreed to make his own EDC Outdoor Kit based on your concepts.
This is the best no nonsense kit I've seen. Excellent 👌
Your channel has the imagery editing and quality of a multi million sub channel.
Always impressed with your quality good work
Wow, thank you!
Always loved your videos Jon! Love this kit too. I’ve just discovered the Sharpie ‘Twin Tip’ pens and they’re another game-changing piece of equipment for my kits. They’re especially handy if you have a small notebook like the one in this video to write in as the smaller tip is like a standard pen. It saves that extra bit of space in your kits. I bought a 12-pack off Amazon in the Black Friday deal for £9 (usually £18 I believe) and they’re now dispersed across various kits. Anyway, thanks for the great content and keep it coming!
Are you referring to the twin tip markers? Because Sharpie also makes ballpoint pens. If there exist a twin tip sharpie marker and ball point pen I'd love to get some but I could only find the fine/ultra fine markers.
I’m referring to the fine (standard sharpie)/ultra fine ‘Twin Tip’ Sharpie.
Awesome like always, but i would consider to at a space blanket! Very small and saves lives. Keep up the great work.
Have to say I would have one in the pack. Now where did I stash mine??
The space blanket is in the First Aid Kit 😊 video on this coming soon 👍
I suggest a Mylar blanket a couple whirl pack liter. Bags and some form of cordage wrap paracord around the handle grip or micro cord or bank line 😊
great video. Really like how clean it looks. There are too many videos out there with kits, that needs a full size studio for unpacking to get to something deep in the bottom of it. Not sure what they would do with it, while standing in a river or forest and with heavy rain.
My thoughts too - essential gear - easy access 👍
I appreciate it’s a lighter weight kit and I quite like the Nano Spark but I tend to carry in my pouch a small fero rod, 2 tiny tampons and a chapstick. That is obviously bulkier but will start quite a few fires when needed. Plus a baby bic with the gas release button suppressed with an elastic band takes no room. I’d feel uncomfortable with that Nabo being my only fire method.
Good to see a well thought out, realistic kit using quality (if expensive!) components...I love the fact you face included a quality compass not the usual junky Chinese button compass so many use. I would however urge you to secure it better in the kit as it is begging to go missing if you open the pack with less than 100% attention. I also love the inclusion of a god quality head lamp...in the pouch itself, I would add a couple of largish zip loc bags as they take no space at all, and although you prefer to keep first aid sperate, I would include a strip of Imodium tablets, but that's speaking from personal experience! Edited to add seeing that you wear glasses, you should add one or two of those tiny screwdrivers for tightening the screws on the arms of your specs...I bet one would fit in the sewing kit...
Your channel is awesome sir. Good work. You’re one of the best in my opinion.
Thank you - that's really kind
You need something for cuts, plasters or tape, you have a lot of edge situations covered like ticks, but not common issues like scratch, cut or infection
I have most of the gear in your kit already. But that nitecord power bank is brilliant. Off to find one in Australia. Sad Victorinox discontinued the walker. Best kit knife ever IMHO.
That filter "pen" seems really useful out in the woods. :)
You should throw in 2-3 condoms. They are tiny portable water bags (holding 1-2 liter each), food carrier Firestarter, slingshot, makeshift glove, fishing line bobber, flotation device, wound seal if you cut off the end, tourniquet, and probably a few other things.
Good stuff, looking forward to the First aid kit vid. Cheers
Just in time.. been wanting a Jon Gadget video!
😊👍
one thing that i have seen with those pouches, is that you can tuck a few long zip ties in the lining around the inside edge.
All well and good but the price of some of these items is hair-raising: 6 UKP for a mirror. Part of being an outdoorsman is to be able to improvise and much of this equipment can be substituted by less expensive everyday items or left out altogether if weight is a consideration.
STUNNINGLY EXCELLENT STUFF !!!! (USA calling….) really good.
Thank you - much appreciated
Good Job..I am in a forested area and go for the bigger ferro rod and a BIC. There is ALWAYS something to burn..
Charmast Mini USB C Power Bank 5000mAh 92 Grams (USB C or Apple)
Cheap Chinese brand however more compact and connects directly to c-port without the need for USB cables
The best thing is it also has pass-through charging
Perfect for EDC
Nice kit! As far as a lighter charger/power bank, check out Nitecore’s Intelligent Battery System. It’s a kit that comes with a light, which you could exclude from your system. But, it also comes with a magnetic end cap for the battery that incorporates both the charging and power delivery. That end cap is even smaller and lighter!
I saw this as well, and the f21i has been discontinued.
Just a reminder not to blow one of the world's loudest whistles indoors again, as requested. Great video Jon.
I don't think I'll need reminding! 😬
I agree with carrying a fire steel and all that, but bic lighters are so reliable and a mini Bic takes almost no space up and weighs next to nothing. I have found old Bic lighters buried in my yard that have probably been there for years that are all rusted and they’ve lit up the first time. If you fall in a river in Alaska the last thing you want to do is have to try to work out a fire with a fire steel if you don’t have to. I’m not sure how cold the waters get in great Britain but still I wouldn’t want to deal with a fire steel if I didn’t have to in an emergency. But everybody’s got their own ideas of what works for them. I know it’s the Ecotac striker thing which is easier than a Firesteel, but still requires a little bit of preparation as opposed to a lighter.
Fair point but I was keen to simplify this as much as possible to avoid clutter - and double down on reliability - as shown in the demo - the nano spark works well and will never leak or be accidentally pressed etc.
Wow. You packed a lot in there good job.I do like that live fire tin 👍👍. Does anyone else still use Vaseline and cotton balls for mini flame ? They do come in handy in the middle of the woods. I used your link to order that expedition thing. Good find. Under 20 bucks, excellent. Good job John I do like that Roroxyvon eight as well or aurora or whatever it’s called
Great video as usual!
I use the Anker PowerCore 5000 as my EDC powerbank. It weighs 136 grams/4.8 oz. For me that's a better solution than the Nitecore F21i since its only one solid thing to carry. It dosen't hurt that it's also more than half the price of the Nitecore, atleast here in Sweden. :)
Just found your channel and been good to watch but I felt I “must” leave a comment the battery for your power bank need’s a silicone cover Iv worked with lithium ion high drain batteries for some years and have seen the damage they can do if they short “they will flair and won’t go out until they burn out so will carry on under water or smothered in sand and some times even pop as the burning pressure builds up” you can get what we called battery condoms basically a silicone cover with a long hole in the side to set the battery in and cover the ends from any metallic objects that happen to come loose it’s a easy mistake but one Iv seen the results of and skin graphs houses burning etc is not worth ignoring for the sake of a 99p bit of silicone anyway I’m going to calm myself down after freaking out seeing the battery loose in your pouch and will come back to watch more episodes after 😅 keep up the good work with finding the gems and ideas though Iv been enjoying that 👍🏻
Thought the same. Carrying a little energy bomb in a case that can be wetted ist not a good idea.
Instead of the Nitecore battery, I would go for one from Acebeam with an integrated USB-C connection. There is also the EDC bulb from Acebeam, which is simply plugged into the battery. So you have an additional lantern and it's still lighter than the Nitecore solution.
Were you thinking H30? Nice option but would end up heavier I think and if you need recharging and the light as well you would have less power available.
@@JonGadget sorry I didn't mean replace the NU25 but the 21700 + F21i
@@cassini2469 what product are you saying can replace the battery that also works as a power bank?
@@roylerroycerickson There are now many rechargeable batteries with a built-in USB-C port that can also be used as a power bank. The smallest is a 18350 from Manker with 1100mAh. The ACEBEAM IMR21700NP-510A also has the advantage that the EDC Bulb is available for $4. The Thrunite TS1 / TS2 would also be a possibility
You're sleeping on binder clips. They are the most widely useful things I have ever come across. Every pack and every room in your house should have a handful.
A ferro rod or ferro sparker is a great long term method for getting a fire going, however, many people seem to be under the impression they are a good reliable way to make a fire in an emergency. They aren't. For an emergency EDC kit - Pack a lighter along with fire starter. As a backup, pack another lighter or storm-proof matches. I will bet money to someone to light a fire in a damp environment with natural material with one of those toy ferro rods or sparkers.
This spark combined with the Live Fire in this kit beats the spark combined with gas (a lighter) for extended use to get a fire going - and has the benefit of not leaking over time and not burning your thumb when keeping the flame going for minutes on end (which would kill the gas quickly anyway).
@@JonGadget I do agree lighters can be fussy and can leak. I have no doubt a sparker and live fire works well but I would say a lighter and live fire would work just as well and a lighter would work in many situations a sparker wouldn't such as not having an accelerant like live fire (try lighting even paper with a sparker). Lighters are also useful for other tasks. It takes a lot of time and skill to locate and process tinder that can take a spark from even a proper ferro rod. Always good to have redundancy but the expert survivalists almost universally agree a lighter should be your go to in an emergency situation - which is what these kits are for. I appreciate your feedback.