Perfect picks for prepper presents
Time passes quickly. It seems as if just a few months ago, the clock was striking midnight and a new year was being ushered in, full of hope and optimism. Now, after blowing through month after month of calendar pages and more than our fair share of challenges, the holidays are fast approaching. You know what that means: It’s gift-giving time, American Survival Guide style!
The needs and wants of our loved ones and friends are as diverse as the products available. From a compact kit that holds scores of survival tools to a handy dispenser of self-defense spray, clothing, packs and other gear categories, we have you covered. As you peruse this month’s expanded holiday collection, we’re sure you’ll find a gift to suit everyone’s tastes.
It’s incredibly true that shopping is never an easy undertaking. This year, the frustration and stress that accompany trying to find the perfect gift that’s also useful takes the polish off the season very quickly. We hope we’ve helped with at least some of that for you here. Grab a comfy chair, settle down with something to wet your whistle, and browse through this assortment in the comfort and quiet of your home.
5.11 TACTICAL PATHFINDER WATCH
Overview
Watches make great gifts. A highly durable, no-nonsense approach to a timepiece such as the Pathfinder will make an exceptional gift for nearly any lover of outdoor action and adventure. It features phosphorescent quarter markers that provide readability in low-light conditions, dependable Japanese movement and a super-tough nylon strap that can handle even the most extreme conditions. Wear it proudly at your next formal function or when trekking across the globe.
Specifications
Stainless steel case with matte ion-plated finish
Scratch- and chip-resistant mineral glass crystal
42mm case with 22mm strap
Water resistant to 330 feet (100 meters)
VSSL CAMPING SUPPLIES TUBE
Overview
This outdoor camping kit takes organization, durability and even design esthetics to a whole new level. The nearly indestructible cylinder, created from military-grade aluminum, holds 72 camping and survival items. Categories include bandages, fishing gear, signaling devices, fire-starting gear and more—all carefully organized for easy access and protection from the rigors of the outdoors. The VSSL camping tube offers a touch of sophistication any outdoorsperson on your holiday list will appreciate.
Specifications
72 camp essentials included
Waterproof and impact resistant
4-mode 200 lumen light
Oil-filled precision compass
Measures 9×2 inches; weighs 15.6 ounces
FRONT RUNNER EXPANDER CHAIR
Overview
First off, this chair reduces to 1/16 its size when folded down—ideal for space-saving when traveling or when camped out in the field. Its durable steel frame can hold up to whatever nature can throw at it while providing the user a roomy and comfortable respite. It’s all black and has two pockets to allow storage of personal electronics and various reading materials. A special leg design keeps it from sinking into soft soil or sand.
Specifications
Folds to just 17.5×16.4×2.4 inches
Opens to 17.5x31x20.5 inches
Weight: 9 pounds
Supports more than 250 pounds
BATTLBOX GEAR SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE
Overview
It might sound like it, but it’s not a cliché when a gift actually does keep on giving. BattlBox is a popular monthly subscription service that delivers essential outdoor, survival, safety and self-defense gear directly to your home. Everything is intensely tested “out in the field,” so you can depend on it when emergencies strike. Start with any of four package levels (a recent Pro Plus box is shown here), and move up or down from there as desired. These aren’t samples, and there’s no “junk”—just bona fide gear that works when push comes to shove and all hell breaks loose!
Specifications
Box options: Basic, Advanced, Pro, Pro Plus
Gift cards available
CAMCON TACTICAL PEN
Overview
An ideal stocking-stuffer, the CAMCON Tactical Pen does a lot more than write. It features a glass-breaker and a pressure point tip. It’s useful for both freeing yourself from your vehicle and escaping from a person out to do you harm. It’s tough, stylish and ideal for virtually everyone on your holiday gift list.
Specifications
Lightweight, knurled aluminum casing
Pocket clip for shirt pocket carry
Uses standard ballpoint pen refills
Glass-breaker for vehicle escapes
Cap screws onto both ends to ensure retention
FRONT RUNNER WOLF PACK GEAR BOX
Overview
You might think an empty box wouldn’t make an amazing gift. However, for the rugged outdoorsman or overlander on your list, this can be something they use all year long. This storage box is not a run-of-the-mill department store container; it’s a durable unit that can hold and protect loads of survival, emergency or work-related gear. The container offers clip-to-close latches. It’ll work alone or with the Front Runner Wolf Pack drawer systems, Front Runner transit bags and Front Runner flat packs.
Specifications
Made of black, high-density polyethylene (HDPE)
External dimensions: 20.1×15.8×9.1 inches
Internal dimensions: 17.7×13.4×8.1 inches
Suitable for interior and exterior storage
Other sizes available
RAPIDPURE INTREPID WATER BOTTLE
Overview
When running, jogging or performing any strenuous outdoor activity, hydration is a must. With the Intrepid 25-ounce water bottle, filling up anywhere is a worry-free and easy task. Use lake water, a nearby stream or even a puddle of rainwater—but stay safe at all times with this handheld purifying system. It’s incredibly easy to use: Just fill and drink. It offers up to a 25-gallon filtering capacity for viruses and a 200-gallon capacity for bacteria, cysts, protozoa and bacteria. After that, just replace the filter, and you’re on the go again.
Specifications
Removes over 99.99% of viruses, bacteria, cysts and parasites
Includes activated carbons to remove odors and improve taste
Flow rate: 1.2 liters per minute
BPA-free construction
TOPS KNIVES A-KLUB KNIFE
Overview
When it’s time for a big gift, few are bigger than the A-Klub knife. Designed by Amanda Kaye (of Naked and Afraid fame), it sports an incredibly designed curved blade that’s over a foot in length, along with a full-tang handle. This mini machete will chop, slice, cleave and hack through nearly any material that stands in the way. Its Acid Rain blade finish protects the steel, while the Kydex sheath protects and stores the entire unit when it’s not in use. This is the gift for the blade collector who has everything!
Specifications
Overall length: 17.88 inches
Blade steel: 1095 RC 56–58
Weight with sheath: 2 pounds, 1 ounce
Green canvas Micarta handle
Includes a black dangler Kydex sheath
NDUR SURVIVAL TIN
Overview
Add this little number to a stocking, and you might very well save someone’s life in the future. This compact, fully stocked tin of reliable survival gear can easily fit into a pocket or gear bag. When an emergency strikes, it’ll be nearby to aid in a plethora of life-saving situations. It features a multifunction knife, flexible wire saw, whistle, mini fire steel, fishing kit, button compass, sewing kit, candle, tinder and much more. Waterproof instructions are included to help you along the way.
Specifications
Originally designed for the British SAS
Perfect for pack or vehicle carry
Dimensions: 6x5x4 inches
Weight: 6.5 ounces
SNUGPAK ROCKETPAK
Overview
Give the gift of space; in this case, a whopping 70 liters (4,272 cubic inches) of mobile storage. The RocketPak offers the ideal containment system for survival enthusiasts to create their own bug-out bag. From a spacious main compartment to two 15-liter (915 cubic inches), detachable side pockets, heavily padded straps and a customizable, removable stay that can be “molded” to your back’s contour, you’ll hit the trail with confidence with this pack on your back. Zippered compartments on the top and bottom offer quick and convenient access. The RocketPak is available in multiple colors.
Specifications
Made with 600D nylon fabric
Large hook-and-loop area for patches
Internal hydration system pocket
Removable stay can be molded to fit your back
PEPPER BLITZ PDF-2 FOGGER
Overview
Give the gift of safety with this easy-to-use self-defense item. Created for the active person, the Blitz Fogger easily secures to a person’s hand as they walk or jog through the neighborhood or hike a trail. If threatened, all it takes is a few squirts to the assailant’s face to make them run away while their eyes and nasal cavities burn intensely and become irritated. This is the perfect small gift for family members, friends and co-workers. A key ring is included to keep this important defensive device nearby at all times.
Specifications
Emits continuous spray between 2–3 seconds
Shoots an 8- to 10-foot cone-shaped spray
Dimensions: 4.125×1.375 inches
Weight: 3.50 ounces
Five-year shelf life
PEPPER BLITZ LIPSTICK PEPPER SPRAY
Overview
Ideal for that special woman in your life, this little item will help keep her safe from those out to do her harm. What looks like an ordinary lipstick case is actually a hidden pepper spray self-defense weapon. Just pop open the top and blast the attacker squarely in the face. It will cause them intense pain and a burning sensation in their eyes and nasal cavities. This unit shoots a dense stream up to 8 to 10 feet.
Specifications
Holds approximately eight short bursts
0.66% active ingredient
Available in multiple colors
Five-year shelf life
VICTORINOX HUNTER PRO ALOX KNIFE
Overview
This excellent knife combines both elegance and practicality due to its refined design and durable, razor-sharp drop-point blade. The Hunter Pro will have a reserved spot in its owner’s front pocket when working in the urban jungle, but it’s equally at home during weekend getaways deep in the woods or countryside. Its striking red color contrasts perfectly with the shimmering finish on the knife’s stainless steel blade. The Pro Alox Knife package also includes a smart clip and a braided paracord lanyard.
Specifications
Closed length: 5.4 inches
Open length: 9.125 inches
Blade length: 3.75 inches
Lockback construction
Deep-carry belt clip for easy carry
VICTORINOX FARMER X ALOX SAK
Overview
This is an amazing Swiss Army Knife … and a whole lot of utility for the lucky recipient. The Farmer X features 10 useful features within its compact, stylish design. At your fingertips are a wood saw, screwdriver, reamer, punch, bottle and can openers, scissors, straight blade and more. All these accessories fold into the durable handle that easily fits within a pack, handbag or back pocket. Need it even closer? The split ring allows attachment to a key ring or lanyard. Style, functionality and true craftsmanship are the staples of this perfect gift item.
Specifications
Swiss-made pocketknife with 10 functions
Anodized-aluminum scales for superior durability
Compact, pocket-friendly design
Closed length: 3.70 inches
Blade length: 2.75 inches
SELK’BAG INSTINCT REALTREE EDGE
Overview
The person who has everything probably doesn’t have this incredible item. The Selk’Bag Instinct offers an amalgamation of insulated outdoor clothing and an instant shelter. This innovative creation is ideal for almost all environments and offers warmth, convenience and the ability to beat feet on a moment’s notice. Its numerous features include double-layer insulation, a thermal collar, insulated hood and a camo design that all but makes you disappear into the great outdoors. The Instinct is ideal for use when camping, hunting or just roaming the vast outdoors. It’s available in multiple sizes.
Specifications
Temperature rated to 19.6 degrees (F)
Easy-access sleeve hand openings
Removable booties allow for easy footwear changes
Cargo pockets hold plenty of small personal items
Soft polyester shell with a water-repellent finish
GOAL ZERO YETI 150 PORTABLE POWER STATION
Overview
With the world becoming increasingly unpredictable, you need a power source that can function off the grid if needed. This “box of power” does the trick. It’s compatible with an optional solar panel, so you can power up your smartphone, tablet, digital camera, laptop computer and lamps with the help of free, unlimited sunshine. The unit charges fully via a wall or auto outlet and will be ready to work when a blackout or power grid issue occurs. The Yeti 150 Portable Power Station is silent, safe, and fuel and fume-free.
Specifications
Weight: 12 pounds
Dimensions: 7.75×5.75×6.75 inches
Includes AC, USB and 12V DC outlets
Safe and easy to use
CARHARTT RAIN DEFENDER PAXTON HOODED ZIP MOCK SWEATSHIRT
Overview
This sweatshirt is a great addition under your main jacket in the winter. Alternatively, you can wear it alone on a brisk autumn day. You’ll enjoy the comfortable fit of this all-around sweatshirt. When rain falls, it steps up by repelling water and keeping you dry underneath. This sweatshirt’s rib-knit cuffs and waist help keep harsh weather and cold temperatures out while keeping you warm inside via your own body heat.
Specifications
DWR fabric treatment effective for light rain conditions
Three-piece, jersey-lined hood with drawstring
Front handwarmer pocket with hidden pocket inside
Mock-neck collar with antique-finish brass zipper
13-ounce, 75/25 cotton/polyester material
TASMANIAN TIGER TT FLEECE CAP
Overview
Heat loss is no laughing matter, and heat lost from your head can be downright deadly. However, this serious problem can be easily prevented with the Tasmanian Tiger Cap. Warm microfleece covers the majority of your head, keeping in warmth and shutting out cold. This cap is ideal for any cold, damp or frigid environment, and it easily collapses down into a small bundle for storage when temperatures rise once again.
Specifications
T-Microfleece 75D material
One size fits all
Weight: 1 ounce
TasmanianTigerUSA.com
WESSPUR BEGINNER’S COMPLETE CLIMBING KIT
Overview
Sometimes, the tree you want to cut down is just too darned big or tall for traditional means of cutting, so it’s up to you to go up and chop it down to size. For that, you’ll need a harness system. WesSpur has you covered. This complete ensemble has all the gear needed for a novice to begin climbing. From a full set of spur gear to a Moving Rope System, a comfy saddle and more, you’ll be scurrying up and down the timber in no time. All of the gear is built tough with high-quality items and components that’ll hold up to repeated use. The kit is upgradable and customizable too.
Specifications
Useful for both ascending and descending
Micro-pulley for easy slack-tending
Tall back padding on the saddle increases comfort and back support
Durable, wide-back saddle
Includes tree climber’s illustrated reference manual
KESTREL FEATHER TOMAHAWK
Overview
Don’t be fooled by its tactical, modern appearance—the Kestrel Feather Tomahawk is just as at home around the campsite as it is in an urban jungle setting. It sports a full-tang design, so there’ll be no worry about a broken handle or head separation on your next trip out. It’s surprisingly lightweight, which allows for more work and less fatigue. The integrated G10 scales create a 3D texture that works well to keep your grip solid in both dry and wet environments. The head has a 3-inch edge, as well as a 3-inch, distal-tapered spike that’s effective on wood, sheet metal, tempered glass and a variety of other materials.
Specifications
Blade steel: 80CRV and 1075 versions
Weight: 1 pound, 2.5 ounces
Tungsten Cerakote finish for corrosion and wear resistance
Includes molded Kydex sheath with low-ride M.O.C. straps
A.G. RUSSELL SANDBOX DAGGER
Overview
If you’re looking for that quintessential gift for the knife aficionado on your list, the new Sandbox Dagger from A.G. Russell might well check all the boxes. This modern take on the classic dagger is equally at home in a display case or in a combat zone. It uses DM1 blade steel with a special heat treatment and improved blade geometry, so the issue of tip strength has overcome past concerns. The full tang gives it good balance, and the 15-degree sharpened edge angle makes quick work of cutting and penetration tasks.
Specifications
Overall length: 10.875 inches
Blade length: 6 inches
Weight: 5.7 ounces
Handle scales: Olive Drab Rucarta
Sheath: Nylon with Kydex insert; MOLLE compatible