Splitz-All Log Splitter

My kid has been watching YouTube videos lately on neat, new gadgets and one that caught my eye was this Splitz-All Log Splitter. And, while I’m not quite sure it’s worth the price tag, the Splitz-All sure is an interesting way to split wood besides with an axe or hydraulic log splitter. Enjoy…

Why A Ferro Rod May NOT Be Worth Having In Your Pack

I’m really starting to like this guy a lot because he offers good, solid advice and clearly knows what he’s talking about with respect to wilderness survival. Today he’s discussing whether or not those trusty ferro rods every prepper–including me–tends to include in their packs is worth having… and stick around to the 12:00 mark to see his “trick” for fire starting.

Solar Powered “Gorilla” Work Cart

This is a neat little idea if you’re interested in a solar powered project for whenever the sun comes out again…

Why A Mylar “Survival” Space Blanket Is Worth Having In Your Pack

I’m generally VERY against the cheap mylar “survival” space blankets mostly because there are better option and, honestly, people don’t use them right. I’m a much bigger fan of the SOL Heatsheets (two person version) which are discussed in the following video. That said, any such blanket has limitations and must be used appropriately as shown below…

Top 3 Considerations For Carrying A Firearm During A Grid Down Disaster

There are an abundance of articles online that provide you with critically important tips on carrying a firearm. But far fewer of those articles cover how to properly carry or use your firearms in the event of a grid down disaster.

Fortunately, that’s exactly what we’re going to talk about today. Here are the top three considerations for carrying a firearm during a grid down disaster:

1 – Conceal Carry A Handgun

Carrying a handgun on your person is wise so that you always have a defensive firearm within quick and easy access. That is, you shouldn’t have to run into your house or car to grab a gun if you are ever attacked by looters or criminals during a disaster.

Instead, you should be able to draw your pistol or revolver right away to engage your attackers the moment they attack!

At the same time, the last thing you want to do during a disaster is to draw attention to yourself, whether it be from law enforcement or by other people. This is why it is crucial to keep that firearm concealed on your person.

Therefore, you’ll want to invest in a high quality concealed carry holster and to carry at least one spare magazine with you as well. Even if you don’t have to reload due to running out of ammunition, the number one cause of failures in a semi-automatic weapon is due to an issue with the magazine rather than the weapon itself, so packing a spare magazine or two is always a smart call.

2 – Keep A Rifle or Shotgun Within Easy Access

A handgun may be a great self-defense tool, but it’s still not as effective as a rifle or a shotgun in certain situations. It just isn’t. Handguns don’t have as much stopping power or velocity, and they lack the range of a rifle, in particular. If your home or property comes under attack by multiple assailants, defense will almost always be easier with a long gun than it is with a handgun.

If anything, handguns are either backup weapons when all other options have been expended or weapons that you use until you can get to your main weapon, and they should be treated as such.

This is why you want to also keep a rifle or shotgun within easy access. No, you don’t want it to be out in the open, but you want it to be somewhere that you can reach it quickly, such behind the front door of your home or in your car. [Editor’s note: follow all state and local laws regarding proper storage.]

3 – Keep The Rest of Your Guns Hidden

Do you want to know what a real possibility will be during a grid down disaster? That’s right: the government declaring martial law, even if not officially in name.

Martial law simply means that the Constitution and all regular laws will be suspended as the government takes direct control via the military and law enforcement. All of the rights that you’re accustomed to having, from free speech to a right to privacy to the right to keep and bear arms, will be treated as if they never existed.

In an effort to control the population, the government will be going door to door confiscating firearms. It’s what happened during Hurricane Katrina, even though martial law was not formally declared.

In order to keep as many of your guns as possible, you’ll need to get very creative about hiding them. A gun safe won’t be good enough because it will be the very first place confiscators go to look, so you’ll need to hide them around your house instead or, better yet, completely off site.

Conclusion

Contrary to what many folks think, it’s not necessarily like people are going to be walking around with a pistol on their hip and a rifle slung over their shoulder when the grid goes down. On the contrary, you’ll want to be very careful about how you go about carrying a firearm during a disaster.

And remember: just because the grid has gone down doesn’t mean that the laws will no longer be enforced. Be sure to comply with laws regarding storage, concealed carry, and defensive use of a firearm in your area even after the grid has gone down because people have been and will be prosecuted when society does return to normalcy.

[Note: this was a guest post.]

Lock Pick Beginners Box Review

I was sent this Lock Pick Beginners Box from LockPickWorld.com in exchange for an honest review and, honestly, I really had no idea what they were going to send because I basically said “send whatever you like” as I had no experience with picking locks and, thus, no expectations either.

Anyway, the box arrived a few days later and was smaller than I’d anticipated at about 7″ x 5″ and not a whole lot bigger than most cell phones these days, lol:

After opening the box, everything was well-contained and included the lock pick set, a smaller concealed credit-card-sized pick set, and two different see-through training locks:

Here’s what I found after taking it all out of their respective packages, with the 15-piece lock pick set lined up along the top in the photo below, the credit-card pick set at the bottom left, and the two practice locks shown on the bottom and bottom right:

Scratching my head at everything, the first thing I looked for was a set of instructions, yet I found none. Truth be told, I typically ignore instructions, at least, until I get suck, but this time I really had no idea what I was doing.

After heading back to the product page I realized that I should have received an ebook to go along with the pick set, but since this was a review product I guess I didn’t get the appropriate email. No big deal, I got my hands on the book and actually found it rather interesting… and I even read most of it too.

The problem I found was that reading how to pick a lock was far different than actually seeing it done. And, so, I headed to YouTube and found this video which helped me get started:

I watched a few others which I won’t bore you with, but I can attest that picking locks is much harder than I thought it would be!

I tried for a while to use the lock picks like I thought I should on the practice padlock without any success. Then I tried the “raking” method discussed in both the book and shown in the video above using a “triple peak” pick and I quickly picked the training padlock! Uh oh… I might be hooked.

It was neat to get something to actually work, so I tried the double-sided lock using the “raking” method but was stumped again.

Long story short, I went back to using the tension wrench and “short pick” on the double-sided lock and, after fiddling with it and watching the tumblers move I actually got the lock to open, but that took some time and more patience than I tend to have.

Regardless, it was neat to accomplish. I actually went around the house and tried a few door locks using only a tension wrench and short pick, but had no success.

And, if I’m being honest, the rest of the lock pick set looks like Greek to me. I also tried to use the credit-card set on the training locks and eventually got them to work as well.

I briefly considered adding the credit-card set to my wallet, but it’s already filled to the brim with other stuff and, knowing my luck, I would probably get arrested the next time I tried to board a plane with them, lol.

Ultimately, I was pleased with the lock pick beginners box set. It’s an interesting skill that I never tried before and, whether or not it may come in handy during any sort of disaster scenario, the tools are certainly fun to practice with and may just make an entertaining gift for the upcoming holiday season.

Top 10 Places To Hide A Gun In Your Home

There’s simply no question that a firearm is one of the very best home defense weapons you can have.

There’s also no question that leaving your firearms out in plain sight is a bad idea, and for more reasons than one. The last thing you want is someone with unauthorized access to get their hands on one of your guns, and that’s why you need to take action to keep your firearms hidden.

Now the obvious solution here is to invest in a strong, affordable gun safe, which has the added benefit of protecting your firearms from fires and other elements.

But this may not be a viable solution for you if you don’t presently have the funds to invest in a safe, or at least not in one that can hold all of your guns for you. (Editor’s note: be sure to follow any local laws regarding proper storage, even if you’re generally against more regulations, like me.)

So what are you supposed to do now? Simple: you need to find other places throughout your house to hide your guns in instead.

Here are the best places to hide guns in your home:

1. Food Boxes (i.e. Pizza Boxes)

Yes, any random food box such as a pizza box will be a perfectly viable option to hide a handgun, because it would be one of the very last places a criminal would even think to look.

The added benefit here is that the kitchen is a good place to have a firearm hidden anyway for defense against home intrusions.

(Editor’s note: be sure the box is thoroughly cleaned, otherwise it will get smelly!)

2. Pottery Pieces

Besides food boxes, you can also try to hide your handguns inside pottery pieces throughout your house as well. Take note that criminals will definitely think to look inside pottery pieces before food boxes, so it may not be as secure of an option. You’ll also definitely want to wrap the pistol in a towel of some kind before placing it into the bowl, just in case if a guest to your home peers inside out of curiosity.

3. Nightstand

It’s always a good idea to keep a firearm on the nightstand for quick access should you wake up in the middle of the night to the sound of something breaking downstairs. That being said, nightstands are also places that burglars would be sure to check for jewelry, electronics, money, and other valuables, so you’re definitely taking a risk here.

The best solution here may be to invest in a small pistol safe that you can drill into the bottom of the nightstand, where the pistol will be kept both concealed and secured.

4. Under Furniture

Who says that you only have to drill a pistol safe underneath a nightstand? What’s to stop you from drilling one underneath other pieces of furniture, such as office desks, chairs, sofas, and so on?

5. Under The Floors

Underneath the floors is another great location for hiding firearms. You can also hide long guns here such as rifles and shotguns besides handguns only. Just be careful about where you choose to cut into your floors. In a hallway that’s commonly used wouldn’t be as strategic as say underneath furniture.

6. Concealment Shelves

There are a variety of concealment shelves on the market that you can buy as well for hiding handguns. Many concealment shelves are designed as everyday home furnishing items, such as drawers, clocks, picture frames, and so on.

7. Air Vents

Air vents are another location where you can hide firearms. Granted, burglars may think to look there for money or other valuables, but children and anyone else curious probably will not.

8. Fake Books

This is one of the oldest tricks in the book (pun intended), but hiding a small pistol in a realistic looking fake book ensures that the firearm is kept both hidden and accessible. For larger pistols, you made need a real page turner. Try a dictionary, old Bible, or maybe your favorite edition of Harry Potter.

9. Closet

You’re taking a major risk by hiding your guns in the closet, because it’s often the very first room where burglars will go. But it’s still an option for you. Just be careful and strategic about how you choose to hide your guns in the closet (i.e. underneath a pile of shirts or pants isn’t very strategic).

Editor’s note: get a good handgun safe if you’re going to use the closet for this purpose… thieves will go straight for the closet every time.

10. Underground

Last but not least, you can also always hide firearms underground, such as in a PVC pipe, pelican case, ammo can, or anything else that can keep the firearms shielded from moisture. This is a topic that you’ll want to research much more careful to keep your firearms fully protected from moisture damage.

Conclusion

Hopefully this article has given you a solid idea of a variety of different places where you can keep your firearms hidden. But of course, these aren’t the only viable options for hiding guns, so if you put your creative cap on, you’ll no doubt think of a number of other hiding places as well.

(Editor’s note: This was a guest post.)

7 Overlooked Everyday Items In Your House You Can Use For Survival

Any survival or disaster situation is naturally going to require you to get a little creative.

This is because resources in any survival situation are going to be rather thin, and you’re going to have to learn how to make the best with what you have.

Fortunately, finding yourself in a survival situation doesn’t just mean that you are limited to survival tools that you may not even have on hand at the time.

This is because you can easily take everyday household items that you probably already have an abundance of and use those items to make surviving significantly easier.

Here are the top seven overlooked everyday items in your house that you can use for survival, presented in alphabetical order:

1. ALUMINUM FOIL

Aluminum foil already has a great many uses around the house, and it likewise will for if and when you find yourself in a survival situation as well.

One of the best uses for aluminum foil will be to use it to help cook food in a survival situation. If all you have available is a fire rather than your stove or oven, you can wrap food in the aluminum foil and then place it next to the fire.

Another valuable use for aluminum foil will be to use it as a signal, since it can reflect the light of the sun. Additionally, you can also use aluminum foil will be to use pieces of it as a fishing lure, as fish are naturally attracted to bright objects.

2. BAKING SODA

If there’s only one personal hygiene item that you can have on hand in a disaster scenario, it should without question be baking soda.

This is simply because you can use baking soda to make virtually any other kind of personal hygiene item in existence, from soap to shampoo to deodorant to toothpaste to floor cleaner to dishwashing soap to laundry detergent.

All you really need to do is mix the baking soda with water in order to create a paste, and you can create any of those listed above.

3. COFFEE FILTERS

Another highly versatile but overlooked survival item is just an ordinary coffee filter. Besides the obvious use of using it to help make your morning cup of coffee, you can also use a coffee filter to filter through water, as fire tinder (mix with grease for the best effect), to wrap food, or as emergency toilet paper.

4. DENTAL FLOSS

Obviously dental floss can be used for oral hygiene in a survival situation, but you can use it for a great multitude of other purposes as well.

For example, you can use dental floss as fishing line, as a clothesline, to help build shelter, to make matches burn longer (simple wrap the floss around the matches), to set snares, for sewing, or as a tripwire.

NOTE: attach tin cans filled with a few pebbles to the tripwire, and you’ve created an emergency alert system. U.S. troops used this strategy to great effect to alert them to nearby Japanese troop movements in the Pacific campaign during World War II.

5. GARBAGE BAGS

It’s surprising that garbage bags don’t show up as often as they should in other lists of the best everyday items to use for survival, because they truly are among the most versatile items that you can possibly use for survival.

One of the best uses for a garbage bag will be to use it as a poncho, since you simply need to cut a few holes through it for your head and arms. You can also use a garbage bag as a makeshift tarp, as a mattress (simple stuff it full with leaves, grass, and pine needles), or as a wall or ceiling for an emergency shelter.

6. HAND SANITIZER

In addition to using hand sanitizer as a personal hygiene item in a survival situation, you can also use it to sanitize surfaces such as tables or knife blades, to help get fires going (sanitizer is very flammable), for treating mosquito bites (simply apply it directly to the site of the bite), or to remove stains from clothing.

7. PAPER CLIPS

In a survival situation, an ordinary paper clip will be one of the best alternatives to a normal fishing hook. Beyond that use, you can also use a paper clip to replace zipper tabs on a jacket, or as a toe or finger splint in the event of an injury.

BONUS: SODA CAN

Throwing a soda can away is the last thing you should do with it in a disaster situation. You can use the tab as a makeshift fishing hook (much as you could with an ordinary paper clip like we just mentioned), and you can also polish the bottom of the can with chocolate to help it reflect the sunlight for signaling. Alternatively, you can also clean out the inside of the can to use it for storage.

CONCLUSION

If there’s anything that you learn from this article, it’s that you shouldn’t neglect any ordinary items you have laying around the house. Chances are good that you can find at least one or two ways to use that item for survival in a disaster scenario.

7 Steps to Building Your First Bug Out Bag

Whether in the event of natural disaster or an invasion, city-wide dangers or anarchy, there are many uses and times in which a bug out bag’s existence and necessity may very well become a reality.

A very familiar element to those that have volunteered alongside of or worked in the military, terms like “go bag” is a common name used, or “overnight bag” which we identify the BOB bag as in the Air Force. However, this is of course designed to be much more than just an “overnight bag” in most instances – while the name may not allude to such.

In this article, we will cover a range of topics and key focus areas for building your first bug out bag, which based on field experience, knowledge, and hobby-like interest combined with a DIY attitude will cover the following topics:

Observation of the environment
Health hygiene review and modifications, preparations
Signals and communications
Visualization and planning
Movement and cover, evasion and distress
Recovery and repair
Creation, and angling for long-term survival as-needed

To understand how to build the most efficient, meaningful, light-weight, productive, and effective bug out bag (BOB) it is first critical to know how your settings or environment, personal strengths and weaknesses, environmental changes, and how they interact with the situation. This is the most practical approach to maximize both survival and application of your bug-out-bag.

(1) Observing and understanding your environment:

To get the most out of your bug out bag (BOB) it is worth investing substantial time, consideration, efforts and even funding in choosing the most durable, efficient, lightweight, practical backpack for your last-minute adventures or escape!

However, depending on the nature of your potential scenario may it be a natural disaster or possible foreign invasion, zombie apocalypse or total anarchy, choosing one of the following backpack types for your B.O.B. makes sense!

A Kevlar-made bag for resilience, durability, and reliability which will keep you and your belongings safe.
A premium grade backpack with high-ratings, reliability, and trust from military agencies that optionally will include a BALLISTIC SHIELD is also preferable, as seen with those bags made to include Tuffy Packs ballistic shield.

An assault pack style backpack, or Mojo Tactical for those fonder of the over-the-shoulder design, an item like the KIFARU EMR II for the long-distance journey and escape, or survival in the wilderness.

Consider the importance of lightweight solutions for your Bug Out Bag, and research which of these models make the most sense for you, your strengths, personality, and priorities with packing and preparing your bag.

Also, consider the importance of getting a nature-colored bag for both camouflage to protect yourself from predators, and also to prevent or avoid unnecessary and unwanted attention. Depending on where you live, different variations of materials make sense more than others per the regular or average temperature, and typically expected maximum highs and lows of the environments which you’ll be traveling or living in.

To make the most of your ability to observe and report your environment to yourself, loved ones, or authorities make sure you pack the following critical items:

Reliable, durable binoculars that are lightweight in design and prepared for the outdoors
A compass for direction and measuring distance
Durable, reliable waterproof work-shoes or work-boots that are durable but not uncomfortably heavy for long-distance trekking and prevention of injury stainless steel highly recommended and cleats are an option
A pair of trusted clear eyewear protection for visibility and eye injury prevention both during the daytime and night time
UV proof sunglasses to protect your eyes from sunrays during the day
A small, waterproof notebook to record movements, observations, goals, and to leave behind notes or other measures of communicating with emergency personnel or friends and family
Fluorescent bodywear ranging from gloves to shirt, hat, or pants, which can be altered or used at different points during your journey to communicate different signals or even use as a flag for gaining attention at some point

This list is extensive, but not conclusive. Also consider the sort of environment, dangers, and expectations you have for your journey this way you can make the best decision with what backpack design, model, weight, capacity, style, and features make the most sense.

(2) Health Hygiene Review – Body Care and Repairs

From duct-tape to tampons, we have compiled a list that makes sense and is sure to be useful when it comes to maintaining the necessary health hygiene, “body repairs,” maintenance (like refueling), and both preventing as well as treating sickness and illness.

Every bug-out bag at a minimum should have a reliable roll of industrial-grade duct tape. From small injuries to severe gashes, broken or disconnected limbs and more, duct-tape has been trusted in the field by soldiers at home and abroad for decades.

Hand sanitizer, a basic medical kit, iodine for destroying bacteria and preventing infection, medical gauze for stopping bleeding or promoting clotting, Q-tips, and even a small package of tampons will go all the way in helping you to prepare for nearly any essential to medium-level injury and beyond. Gel energy packs, salt, water filters, a natural water purifier, and pan, bottle, cup, tweezers, and small necessary splints are also a MUST! Also, consider investing in water filtration tabs to filter and consume water while on the go quickly.

Also, do NOT forget necessary vitamin packs or powders to lighten your load, surgical or a RESPRO allergy mask to preserve and protect your face, lungs, the air you are breathing in, and breathing back out. It is not necessary to purchase and pack a gas-mask or other sophisticated survivalist masks because fitting and carrying one will be a severe inconvenience, weigh you down, and likely deplete both space and time in your bug-out bag!

(3) Signaling and Communications – Equipment Preparation

It is critical you find yourself at any times able to effectively signal for help, “friendlies,” and also identify others, which is why reliable, efficient, and practical signalizing and communications equipment is a MUST.

Pack your next Bug Out Bag with the necessary light sticks to show your position or lead the way through dark roads and brush; any brand will do barring it has good reviews and is reliable. This should not cost you more than around $10.00 for a pack.

Also, consider adding the following signaling and communications equipment to your bug-out bag:

Hand-crank flashlight for constant reliability for lighting the way
LED headlamp to light the path in front of you with adjustable settings
Solar powered LED flashlight
Hand-crank LED flashlight
Tinderbox for manually fire-starting when necessary
Matches as a backup resource
Fire-safe and waterproof lighters to both preserve and create fire at most critical times or weather
Firestarter kit

DO NOT neglect the following critical hygiene items:

Toothbrush and toothpaste with cases for each to keep dirt out
Soap bars that are well packaged

It is critical that you keep your teeth, ears, and mouth as clean as possible wild adventuring in the wild or on the road for days or more at a time. This is because bacteria grows most frequently and enters the body in these places, and can pose a severe threat to your immune system which in turn risks you become weaker, unable to function competently, lethargy, a lack of energy, and an inability to focus as well as other common flu and virus symptoms.

An essential Morse-code guide is also suggested, for communicating with other emergency personnel and military as needed.

A FLINTSTRIKE fire-starter kit like the one below is recommended, convenient, practical, and lightweight for your BOB:

(4) Visualization and Planning – Tactical Tools and Supplies

To increase your chances for survival, both planning a route to your destination, the progress you’ve made, and being able to visualize where you are and where you’re going adequately are critical to making the most of your survival in the wild, during a national emergency, or total anarchy! So, do not take this opportunity and advice lightly, and only go with the most reliable, durable, trusted tools and equipment for this section when creating your BOB:

Reliable, lightweight binoculars (night vision preferred but costly)
A basic notepad, pencils, and a pencil sharpener
Local and county maps, districts, and state-wide maps
Emergency GPS signaling device
Trusted outdoors GPS device

The GARMIN eTrex 20x is a good, affordable and efficient GPS tracking system, but the eTrex ten will also do just fine, and both are lightweight, reliable, and very durable.

(5) Movement and cover, communications and evasion

From equipment to clothing, charges, traps, bungees and more

Pack your BOB with a waterproof raincoat, rain pants, lightweight and preferably foldable rain-boots or covers. Also be sure to pack a waterproof hat, and some of the other following items to preserve your strength, health, agility, and speed:

-Fluorescent gloves and vest for both signaling and being seen as-needed

-2 Bandanas which have a wide range of multi-purpose that are sure to come in handy including for first-aid

-A sewing kit for easy repairs and modifications to clothing and armor or equipment, and if you have enough space, perhaps a small hacksaw as well.

-Kevlar gloves for fast, safe, and active movement through dense brush, rough environments, and terrains

-At least two pairs or waterproof socks so that one may be used while the other dried in the sun before the next use. QUIK-DRY brand highly recommended, especially for cloudy or cold days that make it difficult for clothing to dry.

These waterproof, durable, sports-styled socks are the perfect choice for anyone serious about keeping warm and dry – because without dry socks injuries, rashes, and pain are certain.

EXTRA TIP: An EMERGENCY RADIO is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED (Solar Power is your best bet) so finding and adding a lightweight, compact emergency radio can make all the difference in your chances of survival, and identifying to reach your objective.

This EMERGENCY WEATHER SOLAR CRANK RADIO is a good choice, but there are many options available online:

(6) Recover, repair, and create!

Industrial tools, building, demolitions, self-repair and equipment repairs

Maximize your strength, building and survival abilities, and preserve energy where possible by packing the following must-have items and supplies into your bug-out bag:

Multipurpose knife for fitting, cutting, preparing food, and first aid
Nylon Rope for climbing, grappling, and evasion – also consider investing in a reliable and durable 550 Parachute Cord (50?)
Multipurpose multitool for stretching, cutting, and repairing survival materials
Zip ties
Fishing Line

– A Versatile AXE for preparing food, chopping wood, and creating shelter

A multipurpose camping ax like the one below will mean between life and death when it comes to preparing firewood, cooking, hunting, and even defending yourself.

The added tools and versatility of a screwdriver, combined with duct tape, zip ties, and a plastic tarp will work miracles when it comes to making a water-proof shelter that’s likely to keep you warm and alive at night – and safe from PESTS and PREDATORS!

(7) Resistance and Survival, Existence and Maneuverability

Self Defense and Enhancing Speed

To protect yourself and your assets are sure to invest in the following items, tools, or multi-use weapons that will promote resistance, survival, and maneuverability!

-A durable, static and waterproof tarp to quickly set up a fort or tent soon in all weather and climates

-Bug spray and repellent to protect yourself and prevent serious infections or illness and diseases

-Pepper spray as a choice non-lethal weapon to defend yourself against bears, and other dangerous animals or persons. This is a compact solution and most practical for a bug-out bag but does not exclude the possibility of carrying a handgun and ammunition if possible.

Remember…

Observe, Signal, Visualize, Move, Cover, Escape, Recover, Repair, Create, and Survive!

NOTE: THIS WAS A GUEST POST

20 Survival Gift Ideas for Any Budget

For the sharpshooter looking for the best “bang for their buck” to preppers who want to find a great deal on their next knife, we’ve compiled a list of high-quality, affordable gear that anyone can purchase — either for themselves or a gift for their ever-diligent friends and family members… but, let’s be honest, we both know it’s for you, lol.

In this list, we’ll cover knives, firearm attachments and accessories, survival watches and camping supplies. Let’s start with the basics:

Knives Under $100

Whether out in the wild or deep in a city, you may have to navigate many obstacles that require the use of a knife. A such, it should be something dependable that won’t break or quickly dull, and you need something relatively inexpensive that meets their expectations.

Here are some quality blades that are under $100.

1. KA-BAR USMC Knife ~$75

With a recognizable design that continued to dominate for decades after its debut, the KA-BAR USMC Knife deserves its good reputation. At a length of 11.875 inches and a weight of 11.2 ounces, this classic model feels good in the hand and works well in the field. For those who want utility as well as an attractive aesthetic, buyers can choose between a Kraton and leather handle.

2. Gerber LMF II ~$80

The Gerber LMF II is a smart choice for those who want to stay within their budget without sacrificing quality. With a total length of 10.6 inches and a weight of 11.7 ounces, this is a small and lightweight knife made of 420H stainless steel, a robust material that’s rust-resistant and durable. Designed by a former member of the military, who could expect anything less?

3. KA-BAR Becker BK22 Companion ~$80

Another excellent contribution from KA-BAR, the Becker BK22 Companion is a favorite among both new and experienced preppers. At an overall length of 10.5 inches and a weight of one pound, this knife is on the heavier side. But its ergonomic design accounts for this, offering easy handling of a dependable carbon steel blade with strong wear and corrosion resistance.

Knives Over $100

For those who are willing to spend a little more for their knives, here are additional options above $100.

1. ESEE 6P ~$120

Of all the knives in ESEE’s inventory, the 6P is one of the finest, an excellent addition to any belt. At 11.75 inches long with a weight of 12 ounces, the 6P has considerable size and heft for those who are expecting heavy use. And with a wide selection of different color options, buyers can customize the knife to fit the style of the prepper they’re purchasing for.

2. Tom Brown Tracker T-3 ~$250

Though this model is on the pricier end of the scale, users of the Tom Brown Tracker T-3 will find that the cost is well within reason. At 10.75 inches long with a weight of 13.26 ounces, it’s not as lightweight as the other options in this list. That said, those who enjoy a truly unique design will find the appearance of the T-3 appealing, and its serrated back edge provides extra utility.

Firearm Attachments and Accessories Under $100

A reliable firearm is an absolute necessity for anyone serious about prepping. If the prepper in your life has a license and a weapon but lacks a good attachment, consider one of the products below as a potential gift. There’s something for everyone with all of the choices available.

We’ll start on the lower end of the spectrum with attachments and accessories under $100, then work our way up.

1. XS Sight Systems Standard Dot Tritium Night Sight ~$60

For those who prefer handguns as their weapon of choice, those with an S&W or Ruger model will benefit from the Standard Dot Tritium Night Sight. No batteries necessary, this attachment uses well-balanced luminescence to make targeting easy and intuitive, doing away with sights that are overly bright and counter-intuitive.

2. VGS Precision Gamma 556 Muzzle Brake ~$60

With a simple attachment, owners of an AR-15 can reduce recoil and muzzle rise. The VGS Precision Gamma 556 Muzzle Brake has a dual function, classified as a brake with the attributes of a compensator. Offering the best of both worlds, this product is an excellent addition that enhances the user’s accuracy while improving the look and feel of the weapon.

3. VLTOR IMOD Improved Modular Stock ~$80

To say this stock is “improved” is something of an understatement. From its utility on the battlefield to practical applications, the VLTOR IMOD Improved Modular Stock goes one step beyond. Waterproof side battery compartments, multiple sling attachments and a rolled/angled butt-pad with a wide traction area make this a must-have product for any AR-15 owner.

Firearm Attachments and Accessories Over $100

If there’s extra room in your budget, consider these options in the $100 range.

1. Bushnell TRS-25 Hi-Rise AR Optics ~$100

An optics component for an AR-15 can greatly enhance a shooter’s accuracy, you will appreciate this attachment. With several power settings, a 3 MOA red dot, multi-coated optics and a high contrast, amber-bright lens coating, you’ll get more than your money’s worth. Regardless of ambient light, the optics self-adjust, letting the user focus on what’s important, like the target.

2. LUTH-AR Modular Buttstock Assembly ~$130

The LUTH-AR Modular Buttstock Assembly allows users to customize their weapon, adjusting the stock’s pull length and weld height for maximum comfort. The ambidextrous nature of the stock makes it an excellent gift for both new and experienced shooters looking to improve their arsenal, helping their accuracy and performance on the range. At only 1.26 pounds, this item is a small addition that can make a big difference.

Survival Watches Under $200

Knives and firearms are great, but there are additional necessities that no prepper should do without. One of these standard items is a survival watch, something functional and durable that can take a beating in any weather or circumstance.

Here are several quality options for under $200.

1. Timex T49612 Expedition Trail Series ~$110

Though the quality is what you would expect from a watch that’s a little over $100, the Timex T49612 is an excellent choice for those on a very strict budget. With good shock resistance and a waterproof design, you can take the watch anywhere without fear of damage. And the Indiglo lighting feature, unique to the Timex brand, uses different electro-luminescent lamps for multiple levels of lighting.

2. Casio Gw7900b-1 G-Shock Black Solar Sport Watch ~$90-$150

A classic brand, Casio has a commitment to value. The Sport Watch model doesn’t stray from this commitment at an affordable price point, carrying many of the same features as its competitors. With excellent reliability, the solar-charged batteries can last up to nine months without needing a charge, and the waterproof design allows you to traverse any kind of environment.

3. Casio Pathfinder Triple Sensor Multi-Function Sport Watch ~$150

A large name in electronics, it’s no surprise that Casio has more than one item on this list. Similar to their Gw7900b-1 model, the multi-function model comes with a barometer and altimeter as well as a feature that displays the temperature. Users of this model also have access to a fully automated calendar pre-programmed until 2099, making this a truly dynamic gadget.

Survival Watches Over $200

If you’re willing to stretch your budget, here’s a few quality watches over $200.

1. Seiko Sun007 Kinetic Wrist Watch ~$250

The kinetic design of the model charges it without the need for sun or batteries, using the movement of the user’s wrist to draw energy. This is an attractive bonus for those who live in areas that see very little sunlight and can’t rely on it to power their equipment. That said, this product has fewer features than many less expensive models, but depending on location, its kinetic function has significant value.

2. Citizen Nighthawk Eco-Drive Watch Bj7000-52e ~$300-$400

Though the price may prove a barrier to entry for some, for those with flexibility in their budget, the Citizen Nighthawk Eco-Drive Watch Bj7000-52e provides both impressive functionality and incredible durability. With the inclusion of a slide rule, users can perform complex calculations and convert different units of measurement, which can prove useful in situations where precision is necessary.

Camping Supplies Under $50

You may have to endure prolonged periods of time in the wilderness, away from the dangers of a collapsed society. To help stock up on all of the proper supplies, take a look at the items below to see if any would catch the interest of the prepper in your life.

Here are several inexpensive options available for under $50.

1. Coghlan’s Tinder ~$6

Small enough that they add virtually nothing to the cumulative weight of a prepper’s gear, Coghlan’s Tinder is an excellent alternative to trying to start a fire with the friction from a stick. Place this in your pocket or a side compartment of your bag until needed and, at such a low cost, this product is an excellent secondary gift to a larger item.

2. S.O.L. Emergency Bivvy ~$14

The S.O.L. Emergency Bivvy acts as a lightweight personal shelter for those who find themselves deep in the forest during inclement weather. Composed of tear-resistant polyethylene, the bag reflects body heat to maintain temperature and keep the occupant warm and safe from wind, rain and snow. With a SOL Emergency Bivvy anyone can weather the elements with little trouble.

3. Gregory Mountain Products Hydration 3L Reservoir ~$36

Without a reserve of fresh water or access to a natural spring, those who wander into the woods or across an arid desert won’t last long. The Hydration 3L Reservoir accounts for this issue with a product that’s easy to carry from place to place, making short trips across the desert a far less frightening proposition. It also opens like a water bottle for no-hassle cleaning.

Camping Supplies Over $50

For those who have don’t have a problem spending more, here’s two more good options above $50.

1. Suunto MC-2 Compass ~$57

Laymen and prepper alike understand the necessity of a reliable compass. It can determine whether you make it through a sketchy location alive and intact or not. The Suunto MC-2 Compass is one of the best available today, with a globally balanced needle, a liquid-filled capsule for stability, declination correction and a mirror for covert signaling, among other features.

2. Solo Stove Lite ~$70

Recommended by Backpacker Magazine, the Solo Stove Lite fits neatly in any backpack. Small and lightweight, the stove is easy to transport and won’t overburden a prepper as they cross long distances of difficult terrain. In addition to that, the device doesn’t depend on canister fuel, but twigs, sticks, pinecones and other organic material that’s easy to find.

There’s Something Here for Everyone!

From knives to attachments and accessories for firearms, to watches and camping supplies, make sure that you do a thorough search to find the best product at the best price point. There’s no need to sacrifice quality as long as you put the time into finding affordable alternatives within your range.

And, remember, this isn’t just a simple gift that you’re giving: you’re giving a gift that may just save someones life!

NOTE: THIS WAS A GUEST POST.