Portable Water Filter Bag by Survival Hax (Product Review)

Portable Water Filter Bag by Survival Hax (Product Review) 

This portable water filter bag from #survivalhax is awesome! It arrived quickly and is simple to assemble. To easily put it together, all I needed to do was insert the filter into the cap and then screw the cap onto the bag. I can just dunk the bag in the nearest questionable water source, fill it to its 16 ounce capacity, insert the filter, and drink. Another very useful aspect of this item is that the filter can be screwed into a standard plastic bottle.

At first it tastes a wee bit on the plastic side; this wasn't surprising, as I've experienced the same with other water filters. It seems to be a part of the manufacturing process and it does go away quickly. I tried water from a local source documented to have hexavalent chromium, and while I can't verify the removal of it, it does taste much better after filtration through this .1 micron straw.

At first I was concerned about trying a portable water filter bag. I rather expected them to be flimsy, and in a survival situation that's a pretty big risk. I ended up pleasantly surprised though, discovering the bag to be quite sturdy while still flexible. Not only that, but it seems to be reinforced not only around a thick outer perimeter, but also around the designated hole for the mini-carabiner as well.

It's easy to just hook to my pack and go! I'm not going on any outdoor activities without this bag. Given you can filter around 1,000 liters (approximately 264 gallons) with this filter, I'll be using it for a long time to come!


https://survivalhax.com/products/portable-water-filter-bag

   

Anti-Signal Faraday Bag (Review)

Anti-Signal Faraday Bag by RMS Unlimited Goods (Product Review)

This is a Faraday bag meant to hold just 1-2 small devices. I was able to place two cell phones inside it, or one Baofeng radio (FRS/GMRS, in a nutshell, a walkie talkie) minus the antenna.

The bag basically stops signals from entering its enclosure. Some use them to store their devices in case of an EMP, while others use them on occasion to protect against electric currents and discharges. If there's a lightning strike, the current would travel around the outside of the bag, but not inside.

I tested the RMS Faraday bag by placing my daughter's phone in the bag, folding the top over twice as instructed, and sealing it with the Velcro. I called her phone several times but none of the calls went through. I called again immediately upon removing the phone from the bag; my call was received right away.

I repeated the same test but with my son's phone inside, and had the same results. The same outcome occurred when I placed my own phone in the Faraday bag. Three phones all provided consistent results for this product.

This is a well-made item, very sturdy, that seals well. It has two vinyl windows where you could place some sort of identification as to what the item is inside the bag. This would be especially helpful if you have more than one Faraday bag of the same size.

I was provided this item for evaluation purposes.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KKJWFN0

#rmsidtheft

Merytes Portable Binoculars (Review)

This is my first set of portable binoculars. I honestly didn't expect a whole lot, given both the size and the price point. I do have another pair of binoculars but they are a standard size and from a well-known brand. To my surprise, these little cheapies actually knock the socks off the brand-name ones.

The binoculars are made by Merytes. They are 10x25 (magnification is 10x, object diameter of 25mm). They weigh only 7 ounces (.44 lb or 200 grams). They have a strap so you can wear them around your neck, but you can detach them as well.

There is a dial in the middle for large adjustments, and a fine-tuner on the right eyepiece. It is also high definition. The clarity is outstanding, far beyond what I expected for such inexpensive binoculars.

They also come with a cleaning cloth, carrying bag with a belt loop, and instructions (printed in multiple languages), and have a one year warranty. They do a beautiful job. If there is a SHTF situation, I will definitely include these in my BOB.

Item was provided for evaluation purposes.


 

https://www.amazon.com/Binoculars-10x25-Portable-Definition-Merytes/dp/B01DF02UTA/ref=sr_1_31?ie=UTF8&qid=1475142596&sr=8-31&keywords=binoculars

#PortableBinoculars

Universal Rifle Bipod (Review)

Universal Rifle Bipod by Tworld (Review)

When handling the bipod for the first time, it instantly feels insecure. The shoulder joints where the legs mount to the rifle mount are loose. The rifle mount itself will fit either picatinny or weaver style mounts but is way too small. It is roughly 1/3 the size of other inexpensive bipods that are effective.

When mounted to a rifle, the mount does not give a positive feel. It is hand tighten only and cannot get tight enough to be supportive. The release mechanism to draw the legs down under the rifle is stiff and noisy and does not give a positive grab. When the legs are rotated down, they still rotate slightly and flex greatly, disallowing a positive shot.

The height adjustment is a challenge: you have to unscrew a tension thread, and then pull on the foot to get the spring to release, as it will not release on its own despite heavy oil from the factory. Putting the legs away is more difficult than getting them out.

I have never seen a bipod in this condition before. I would not put this on a BB gun, let alone my rifle. I really hope the one I received was just a lemon, and not all customers are being sent ones like this. Very disappointing.

Product was provided for evaluation purposes.

https://www.amazon.com/Tworld-Universal-Adjustable--t-i-n-n-y-Accessory/dp/B01G28LXEU/ref=sr_1_1?m=AVL2R3AO02KGQ&s=merchant-items&ie=UTF8&qid=1468897326&sr=1-1

#riflebipod

Trauma Kit (Review)

CAT Tourniquet, Israeli Bandage, Emergency Blanket from Lia Medical (Review)

I helped form the local community emergency response team, my main position being to advise on putting together bug out bags and medical kits. The items in this kit from Lia Medical are all ones I strongly suggest to include in all emergency kits, and are ones I keep in my own BOB (bug out bag). I have two teenagers in high school and still needed a few things to finish up the emergency kits they keep in their backpacks at school, and this looked like an excellent deal opportunity to do just that.

The Lia Medical kit comes with a CAT (combat applied) tourniquet, an Israeli bandage, and an emergency blanket. The three items arrive in a resealable pouch, though each is also wrapped individually as well. The Israeli bandage, also known as a trauma bandage, is kind of like an elastic bandage with a gauze pad attached; the gauze has clotting granules in it so that if you suffer a wound and are bleeding profusely, such as from a bullet or stab wound, the Israeli bandage can buy you enough time to get to emergency medical care. The green package the bandage comes in has instructions on how to use it, with illustrations included. The CAT tourniquet has a small slip with instructions. The emergency blanket is self-explanatory.

I opened the CAT tourniquet and the Israeli bandage and placed them on my daughter (carefully, as the Israeli bandage is really only meant to be used once so as to not be torn on the V-notch). These are very well-made items and I am quite comfortable with anyone in my family carrying these in their kits, even my teens keeping them in their packs in case of emergency at school. No one likes to think of something bad happening, but I would rather have these and not need them than something happen and not have them.

Product was provided for evaluation purposes. 

http://amzn.to/2cqquLx

#LiaMedical

Tactical Backpack (review)

Tactical Backpack by Gonex (Review)

The Tactical Backpack Extendable Functional Backpack, by Gonex is a large pack, with a 45L capacity in the main section and another 15 in the smaller packs, putting it at a full 60L. The material is very durable at 900D. The stitching is excellent. It does have Molle strapping in some locations. The best Molle spots are in my opinion where the removable packs have been placed.

The removable packs are attached quite well. There are ton of straps on this pack, maybe even too many. With all the extra length on the straps, there is no elastic capture to keep them from just flailing, so it rather looks like you are carrying a bag of straps. There are two included Molle strapped pouches on either side that add more side to the pack. The small pack on the lower of the front has four pockets: one large, three small. The big one has a separator inside; it has a strap included if you want to remove it and wear it as a shoulder pack. The strap is wide and the ends have both not only Velcro but they have a snap in the middle of the Velcro, so it stays secure. It can also be worn as a fanny pack. The two pouches on either side are one big dump pouch. One thing of note was the removable packs on the sides, though strong, really should to have straps on the back side so they can be weaved through in order to be more secure.

Starting on the front of the pack, the outer edge, the thin narrow strip of Molle strips and a nice Velcro spot where you can put your own patch is a nice touch. The main pack has two zippers. The first zipper has a smaller container with a webbed separator. The larger container is extremely big and has a solid separator, which would be great for a laptop. There are no openings for either a hydration pouch or earphones. The back padding is not removable or replaceable.

Moving to the outside of the pack on the rear, there are three very thick large pads to separate from your back to help keep you cool. The shoulder straps are the biggest weak point. They are thin and the padding is crunchy. The straps have two heavy duty plastic D-rings. The movable chest strap has a buckle which includes an emergency whistle. The backpack does include a belly band to help keep it in place. The top of the pack also has two heavy duty plastic D-rings. The handle is very well-stitched.

All of the Molle webbing is MilSpec to allow components to be attached. The zippers are large and heavy duty, metal and a bit noisy, but easy to pull if you have gloves on. The cordage which extends the zipper pulls is not high quality and will likely wear out quickly. The zippers are covered for protection in the rain, but not overly as to get in the way. All of the plastic buckles have the company name in Chinese but since it is imprinted in the material, it does not really stand out. There are two large nylon loops on the bottom of the pack that I can easily see hooking on a bed roll down there.

This is definitely the best pack we have from this price class. It is strong and well-made. I would have no problem trusting this on our next local call-out or family outing.

I received this item at a discounted price or free for evaluation purposes. I have no affiliation with the manufacturer of the product or the seller of the item, and I do not receive any financial compensation. I rely on reviews when I make my own purchases. I aim to help other customers by providing thoroughly written reviews; I hope the information provided is helpful in some way.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JOOFATI

#backpack

Emergency Water Filter (Boston Fortis Explorer Pro)

Compact Emergency Water Filter (Review)

My husband and I recently received the Boston Fortis Explorer Pro. We didn't just put it with our gear; we thoroughly tested it so we could share the results with you, as always.

This is a compact filter, so it is easy to transport. If in an emergency situation, it is ideal to stash in a BOB (bug out bag), as every inch and every ounce counts. In this case, the filter is 6.6 x 3.1 x 1.8 inches and only weighs 9 ounces. It comes with a thick drawstring pouch and a decent set of instructions. Boston Fortis even managed to squirrel away a few survival goodies into their water filter: a whistle, flashlight (surprisingly bright), compass, miniature knife, and a flint. The whistle and flashlight are incorporated into the pump, while the compass is along the top where the tubing comes out. The knife and flint are built flush into the base.

Due to our desert region's monsoon drawing to a close, we have a ridiculous amount of mosquitoes right now; thus, we decided to use a camping bucket to hold hose water and bring it back inside the house to test. We also tossed in some dirt and debris for good measure. Per the instructions, we put one end in the bucket and the other in an empty glass. The 3-stage filter has a pretty quick flow rate of around 17 ounces a minute, according to the manufacturer. We did indeed find that to be right on par. As I kept an eye on the bucket, watching the dirt in the water spin around the tube while my husband pumped, I happened to glance over at the glass and saw it was about to overflow and quickly told him to stop pumping. He had no idea it was working so quickly. It does take a bit of effort to pump, but that was expected. As instructed, we had to be sure the tube does not set directly into the debris in order to prevent clogging.

As you can see in the attached photos, the water came out incredibly clear. It tasted a bit like plastic, which I figure is from the tube. I think that will improve with time and use. We did not taste any dirt. After use, we flushed it with clean water. The assembly and disassembly is simple, as is rinsing and cleaning the filter to extend its life. We are thoroughly impressed, and glad to now have the Explorer Pro in our kit. It could end up being a lifesaver.

Compact 100-Piece First Aid Kit (Product Review)

For a compact kit, this is a great one. I have put together a lot of medical kits for people over the years, and there is a difference between a bug out style med kit and a simple IFAK (Individual First Aid Kit). I am not going to compare the two, because they are completely different beings and it wouldn't be realistic or fair. I ordered the Compact First Aid Kit from TripWorthy to review.

This is a physically small kit. It is not much wider than a pair of hair cutting scissors. I did not expect much, until I opened it. I am pretty impressed with how much they were able to get in here. I appreciate the mixed type of items, such as survival (poncho, glow stick, emergency blanket) with first aid (bandages, antiseptic, ice pack) with practical (sewing kit, whistle, safety pins), because you simply never know what you will have the need for. Also consider that items may end up having more than one type of use in an emergent situation. The prescribed use may not be what it ends up being used for!

This kit would be great to keep in a vehicle glove compartment. It would also be ideal for a camping trip or to take along on a hike. If you have teens beginning to drive, or young adults moving into the dorms, this is an excellent kit to have in their first car or to keep in their dorm room. I would be perfectly comfortable having my teenagers carry it in their backpacks at school in case of emergency. There is also just enough space left so if you are going away for the weekend, you could put some allergy or headache medication in a sandwich baggie in there as well. The only change I would make to what they already have is to add a couple extra pairs of gloves; they currently only include one set. If you come across an accident, you always want to have extras. If someone has larger hands and accidentally tears one, or someone else on scene needs some, it's simply impractical to have one pair. Otherwise, this is a great compact first aid kit.

I received this item at a discount or free for my honest opinion. I have no affiliation with the manufacturer of the product or the seller of the item, and I do not receive any financial compensation. My opinion is entirely my own. I hope the information provided is helpful in some way.
   
https://www.amazon.com/Lightweight-Compact-100-Piece-Complete-Water-Resistant/dp/B01DYYCX6M/

 #TripWorthy

Review of pH Test Strips (HealthyWiser)

pH Test Strips by HealthyWiser (Product Review)

HealthyWiser makes a couple different sets of pH test strips, both of which they sent me to check out. Due to how hard it will likely be to restock our medical kit's supplies, I've been trying various testing strips. I am hoping that the use of testing strips will help keep an eye on things like water safety (to prevent sickness, thus the need to take medication in the first place), body pH, ketone build-up, etc. Each post will address the particular strip's significance.

This time, I'm trying the second set of pH strips. If you aren't familiar with pH, it's basically your body's electrical balance. It's impacts how well a lot of it regulates and functions. If you're too acidic, you can have issues like being fatigued, have headaches, stomach issues, and muscle and bone loss. If too alkaline, you can have muscle and joint pain, nerve pain, stiffness and arthritis, and trouble sleeping.

The instructions were clear, and the color chart on the case is easy to see with its large font. Testing with the pH strips is simple, with options for using either urine or saliva. I think having a chronic illness in a SHTF will be a huge worry, especially with not having access to all the regular required prescriptions. Being able to keep an eye on things with test strips will be a big help.

I received this product for my unbiased, honest review. I have no affiliation with the manufacturer or the seller of the item, and I do not receive any compensation.

#HealthyWiserpHstrips

https://amzn.com/B01CF8CGGA

Old School Oil Lamps

I grew up along Atlantic coast of Florida, so hurricanes and emergency weather situations were a normal part of life. We experienced power outages on a regular basis, and my family had old-fashioned hurricane lamps--and yes, we used them. As you may have seen, I have been trying out various types of camping lanterns lately. However, I don't want to rely on only modern technology if SHTF. For that reason, we picked up a oil-based camping lantern. It's been so long since I've used one I wanted to brush up on them, plus I had a lot of questions from a survivalist's point of view. Can you make your own wicks? Are certain types of oils better than others? So I started digging online, and it became abundantly clear that one person really knows her stuff. I learned more from her post than I thought possible. If you plan on using an oil lamp, please take the time to check it out. It is worth it, I assure you.

  Tips and Tricks for Using Oil Lamps (by Preparedness Pro)

Lantern reviews

I've reviewed several lanterns lately. If you don't have any in your emergency kit and are looking for some guidance, I hope this will give you a place to start. I tested small, portable ones; some were solar powered while others required batteries. Some had USB as well. One even was made of silicone and could carry items inside. Jot me a note if you have any questions.

Collapsible LED Lantern 2-Pack Set

Gold-colored Solar LED Collapsible LED Lantern

Solar LED Silicone Collapsible Lantern

Active Shooters & Terrorists

Unfortunately in this day and age, the topic of active shooters and terrorists are something we must acknowledge and be prepared to deal with. Do you know what you would do if faced with this threat in your immediate presence? You can't just think about it. Talk about it with your family. Practice in your home, in your back yard, etc (not with loaded weapons, please), and do it frequently. Just like with firearms training, your response must be second nature.

The article I am attaching is pretty well-written. Ignore the grammar issues, keeping in mind it is written by an ex-British soldier who also has more than 20 years in the field of international security so writing is not his expertise.

Read it carefully. Leave comments, questions, concerns, and we will be glad to discuss them.

http://www.theprepperjournal.com/2016/08/12/how-to-respond-to-active-shooter-terrorist-attacks/

Emergency Supplies to Keep at Home

Preparedness Kit
This list is a compilation of items to keep at home in case of a serious event, such as a natural disaster or a crisis in society. Should evacuation be required, already having these items prepared will be of great help. Please consider the personal needs of your household’s members, such as any medical, dental, or emotional needs, and add them to the list to make it your own. (Another post is soon to come for a detailed medical kit.)

Water: One gallon per person, per day. Keep at least a 2-week supply at home. If evacuating, take along a 3-day supply.
Food: Non-perishable. Same as above.
Flashlights
Radio (hand-crank doesn’t require batteries)

Two-way radios for communication, as the Internet may be down

Batteries, if needed

Solar devices to charge any of your items, if needed

Multi-purpose tool

Gas valve shut-off tool

Hygiene items
Copies of important documents, in waterproof file (identification, passports, wills, medical information, deed/mortgage paperwork, birth certificates, marriage certificate, insurance policies, bank info)
Cell phone with charger
Contact info
Cash
Map(s)
Extra keys
Manual can opener
Whistle (one for each person)
Matches in waterproof container

550 Paracord
Work gloves
Items to secure home (boards & nails for windows, duct tape to prevent flying glass, etc.)
Towels

Clothing/Shoes (appropriate for situation)
Socks (Take note of socks. In a crisis, power may be out for extended periods, making for long, hard work days with no end in sight. Feet take the brunt of it all. Good socks are a necessity.)

Plastic sheeting
Duct tape

Tarp

Sharpie-type marker(s)
Scissors
Entertainment items (Everyone needs a sanity saver, especially in difficult times. Playing cards, notebooks, drawing pads, crayons...)
Sleeping gear

Basic cooking items (A cast iron dutch oven with a lid is great for about everything, along with a basic cast iron pan, utensils, and hot pads.)

5-gallon bucket: multi-purpose. Flush a toilet (pour bucket of water into toilet); wash clothes or dishes. There are even lids specially designed to turn a 5-gal bucket into a potty.

Household chlorine bleach (For emergencies only, you can treat unsafe or suspect water with 16 drops of liquid bleach per gallon of water. NO SCENTED OR COLOR SAFE BLEACH. Only straight household liquid chlorine bleach!)

Pet supplies (including leash, photos w/pet, and copies of shot records)

First aid kit

Survive and Thrive!

Ok, first things first. We didn't name this a "prepping" blog because that word has taken on a negative connotation of late, thanks to the crazy shows on television. We are a family of four that simply believes it is more intelligent to be prepared and have supplies on hand should the need arise, than to have something happen and be SOL (shit out of luck). At that point, you're completely screwed because it's too late once the SHTF (shit hits the fan) and you're wishing you had done something about it sooner, right?

That's why we're here. We are going to post regularly, featuring an array of products that can help you prepare to survive just about any situation imaginable. You don't have to only just barely survive an awful emergency, but you can thrive through it. 

For now, let us introduce ourselves. I'm a former middle school teacher and also worked in the medical field. I stopped working outside the home due to chronic illness. I now review products for online sellers. My spouse is a former peace officer, a certified gun armorer. We have two children who just started high school. We are all avid campers, and enjoy activities such as target shooting (firearms and compound bow), fishing, camp cooking, and stargazing here in the desert with our three dogs (two wee terrier mixes and a massive German Shepherd who thinks he's tiny too).

We'd love to hear from you! Please leave comments with any questions or comments with ideas for topics you would like us to cover. We have a huge list going, so there's going to be lots coming your way and we'd love to add to it!

Until next time, stay safe!