tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25979325510752357542011-11-27T15:34:49.230-08:00Austere Provisions Company is an outfitter for professional adventurers. At Austere Provisions Company we focus on providing the absolute best quality equipment drawing from years of experience in world travel so that you, the customer, have what you need no matter what your mission or destination. <a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/?Click=26">www.austereprovisions.com</a>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.comBlogger401100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-42670983790834117562011-08-28T18:11:00.000-07:002011-08-28T19:50:41.547-07:00Saturday morning started with light to moderate rain and wind before dawn. Both increased over the next 12-14 hours until dying off around 0200 Sunday morning. I went out around 1300 for a little famous fried chicken from Popeye's, much to the chagrin of my wife who wanted me to hang out at the house. Damn that was some good chicken and biscuits, she enjoyed them too. <br /> <br />The local conditions were not that bad at the time. A few spots on major roadways with minimal standing water, primarily a hydroplane issue at posted speed limits but not at anything below and definitely no threat of a flooded vehicle or float away. Wind in open roadways was not significant but 'seemed' much worse in the neighborhoods and around structures. Minimal debris was present and what was present was finger sized branches and smaller. <br /> <br />After chowing down and deciding to stay in unless an emergency required leaving the house I grabbed a little shut eye in preparation for the potential of power outages and any complicating factor that would come with LE/FIRE/EMS being task saturated over the next few hours to days. As I was dosing off I noticed the lights flickering off and on but no sustained outage. Around 1530 I woke up to a slightly warmer house with no power. After a quick check of the exterior and neighborhood I found the outage was not isolated to our house and no damage had been sustained. Water and sewer services were still intact and cell voice and data were still up. <br /> <br />By this time larger organic debris was coming down with numerous branches in the size range of 4-8" in diameter coming down. By 1700 a tree with an estimated diameter of 20" fell into a house down the block causing moderate structural damage. Fire Department was able to respond and perform a basic investigation with no other services rendered on scene, residents made the decision to evacuate and left shortly after the single FD unit cleared up. <br /> <br />As there wasn't much for us to do we broke out the board games I had picked up a number of years ago for morale preps. I had found these on sale at one of the big box stores and picked them up for pretty cheap. They don't require batteries and most use large font for easy reading under candle light. We started out playing Sorry, I lost the first round and won the second. Later we would play Scrabble, I lost by just over 40 points. Can't win'em all... <br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/wlobG7hvtBJFdp-l5IenHA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6lghTIy6h1k/Tlr3kZeHvFI/AAAAAAAAApg/q79-j0e96EE/s400/sorry%252520game.jpg" height="226" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table> <br /> <br />For dinner we used the grill and a camp stove to prepare a tasty meal of bacon wrapped chicken kabobs, broccoli, and instant mashed potatoes. An excellent meal while we relaxed inside and out of the elements. <br /> <br />Once the sun went down, we had another round of board games and keeping an eye on the goings on around the house. There was functionally no activity in the neighborhood and even with at least two neighbors running generators it was fairly easy hear any 'unnatural' noises. With overcast skies and little to no 'human light' I was still able to view good detail under NODs without the use of an illuminator. <br /> <br />With security measures in place we settled into our night routine. Around 0330 the power came back on windows were closed up and we returned to using AC and fans to maintain a comfortable temp. I checked the house for any issues with power coming back on line and found none. Kept an eye on other houses for any issues, not knowing if anyone had been cooking or sustained damage during the outage that may result in a fire. Nothing abnormal was observed for remainder of night. <br /> <br />Clean up has commenced throughout the day of debris. The house sustaining the tree fall had the tree removed by dusk today with a surprisingly quick response. The following are some maintains and improves: <br /> <br />Maintain: <br />-Assessment, plan/schedule, execute <br />-Stock up and inventory with rational goals <br />-Board games <br />-Candles with caution <br /> <br /> <br />Improve: <br />-Do a better job of keeping cell phones plugged in during 'final hours'. This was a last minute thought. <br />-Make a sign to remind conservation of hot water. Water heaters are fairly well insulated and will keep water warm weven with power off for some time. I was able to take a quick shower around midnight and still had very hot water available after being nine hours into the outage. That being said, my lovely wife used a good bit of hot water washing dishes forgetting that our water heater was electric and not gas. <br />-Unplug electronics when power begins to flicker. I managed to kill a router by not unplugging it while power was blinking. Luckily I had a backup to get back online when power returned. <br /> <br />Overall our assessment was fairly accurate and our plan was appropriate. While we could have avoided minimal inconvenience by moving farther west and staying with friends/family/hotel it was completely unnecessary in my mind. The threat was fairly minimal even up to the last reports before we started getting rain. Had we needed to leave we had standard plans in place but this time bugging in was a perfectly functional plan. <br /> <br />All in all a great opportunity to work on preps and doing a run through. <br /> <br />Hopefully this has been helpful to some. <br /> <br />Until next time, stay sharp, <br /> <br />Mike<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-4267098379083411756?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-30740058796478595472011-08-26T21:30:00.000-07:002011-08-26T22:29:32.494-07:00or panic, depending on your situational awareness and preparations. My list was pretty easy today. As you may remember from my schedule outline on Wednesday that I had the following to complete: <br /> <br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Friday: <br />-Organize and inventory stocks. This is particularly important for the frig/freezer. Having an inventory will limit the number of times you have to open the unit to get food out for meals which will help to keep the cold air in and the warm air out. <br />-Fuel up vehicles. I would do this with a little time to spare and then top off just before the storm is about to hit. In the event a storm that isn't supposed to hit hard changes at the last minute you won't end up getting no fuel due to a run on the pumps. You also don't want to be forced into waiting in a 30 vehicle line with half a tank of gas as opposed to having the option to decide when you are down a days worth of driving from a full tank. For most that will be no more than a 1/4 tank. </span> <br /> <br />Organizing was easy as most everything was pretty orderly since stocking the freezer with bottled water. Inventory went quickly as all our frozen foods had been bagged in meal sized quantities when we put them in the freezer, it was a simple matter of getting a count of each type of chow. <br /> <br />Fueling up was a little more interesting... <br />When I went to the bank today I had to go through the local strip center that had a Kroger (grocery store for those not in the south/east) and a gas station. The parking lot for Krogers was packed and the gas station had 3-4 cars in line for each pump. I had planned to top off after the bank because I was between 3/4 of a tank and full from daily errands since I filled up earlier in prep for the storm. I decided I would pass on the pumps at this location/time knowing I was going out to dinner later. As I passed by the gas station I noticed a number of people getting out of their vehicles while in line, obviously unhappy about being in line at 4:30 in the afternoon on a Friday as Irene moves up the coast. <br /> <br />I headed back to the house and the next gas station up the road only had four cars fueling up across 16 pumps. I pulled in and fueled up with ease, made a pass through the inside of the station and saw that they were well stocked on cases of water and their propane tank exchange rack was full of new tanks. Should I need to pick up any last minute items should the storm take a turn I had options that were potentially a better bet than the larger stores. <br /> <br />So, after taking care of what I needed to do both on the preps side and normal every day business I was ready for chow. The wife and I headed to dinner at a new favorite restaurant for some outstanding Cuban food. She asked if we had any other preps to take care of and we ran through the list and were good to go. The point is, I didn't have to wait in line at the gas station hoping to fill up my empty tank, I didn't have to spend my evening trying to play catch up, and I have a reasonable amount of preps based upon the expected threat. My rationale for preparedness is to limit disruption of daily life that includes impact both by last minute rushing around to get ready for a storm such as this or the direct effects of a disaster. Integrate your preps into daily life and it is not an interruption but just another task on the to-do list. <br /> <br />Until tomorrow, Stay Sharp, <br /> <br />Mike <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-3074005879647859547?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-4105386015872039302011-08-25T20:37:00.000-07:002011-08-25T21:26:30.746-07:00Yesterday I posted some details about prep for hurricane Irene. I wanted to follow up on how the schedule is coming and add a few bits of info. <br /> <br /> <br />As you may have remembered, the following was my list for today: <br /> <br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Thursday: <br />-Exchange empty propane tank for grills. While I have a couple that I rotate through there is no sense in having an empty sitting around with a chance of needing it. <br />-Plus up on water and staples from the wholesale club for the time frame of event. While I usually fill up Klean Kanteens or Nalgenes from a filter having fresh bottled water available in smaller than gallon containers is helpful. Once the freezer and frig are stocked I fill the dead space with water. Once cool/cold they act as a buffer should the power go out. <br />-Plus up on any disposables that are down and add the expected time period of disruption. <br />-Address any issues found during walk around of structure. <br />-Secure any items that may be damaged by wind or water (either rain or expected flooding). <br /></span> <br /> <br /> <br />All goals were met for the day with relative ease and efficiency due to having a plan and schedule. This prevented being overwhelmed at the last minute. By the time the Virginia Department of Emergency Management announced that the Governor had declared a state of emergency via it's Facebook account the groceries and disposables had been purchased at the wholesale club and the list was half way done. No lines and less than $150 spent on items that will be used anyway. No waste. <br /> <br />Having VDEM as a 'Like' on Facebook allows me to keep up with info while on the move. Similar resources are likely available for your area as government agencies work to show functionality. Using social media is a much more streamlined avenue than some of the older methods such as websites, text messages, and hotlines. <br /> <br />In addition to seeing the VDEM updates I have kept up with <a href="www.weather.com">Weather.com</a> which has detailed analytics of the storm. Remember that information is power and knowing where to get that information is key to not wasting time. I like to have both objective and subjective sources. While weather prediction is an educated guess in most cases I like to view the 'charts' as well as be able to check out what the media outlets have to say. <br /> <br />Anyway, time to get some shut eye. Until tomorrow. <br /> <br />Stay Sharp, <br /> <br />Mike <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-410538601587203930?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-70259158391064603802011-08-24T19:16:00.000-07:002011-08-24T21:29:00.014-07:00As some may have noticed APC has moved. We are now located in Richmond, VA, a couple hours in from the coast. With Irene headed up the eastern seaboard I figured it would be a good time to make a few entries about how I get ready for potential disasters that have some lead time. I don't expect us to get much out of this storm based on predicted tracks but it doesn't take much effort or money to beef up preps. I say beef up because this is in addition to preps that are already in place for unexpected disasters. <br /> <br />Based on our location the most likely threats include short term power outages, minor flooding, minor wind damage, and traffic on major roadways from weather related accidents and mass movement of people from the coast. There is a very good chance we won't see anything more than a slight drizzle but a few extra groceries won't hurt. <br /> <br />Since we do first in/first out on groceries we generally don't get much more than a week or two down on staples. Anything that doesn't spoil (fresh veggies, fruits, milk, etc) or can be frozen to extend storage is bought in quantity either when on sale or at the local wholesale buyers club. I generally pick up the fresh stuff bi-weekly unless the schedule looks busy. This keeps a good amount of food on the shelf without it going bad and it is all items that my wife and I normally eat. What does this have to do with being prepared for a disaster? This buffers us from running out of food should the power go out or the local grocery store getting crushed from a tornado. Some households have no more than the next meal and a few condiments in the frig, we strive for around 30+ days of food in regular rotation. That is not 30+ days of MREs, that is 30+ days of real food before we have to move onto other resources. <br /> <br />I had the opportunity as a teenager to test this theory out in a legitimate hurricane hit. Living in North Carolina when hurricane Fran came through and shut the area down for a little over a week. Power was out for eight days and roads were blocked limiting travel by vehicle. Through using a generator for a few hours a day and doing a lot of cooking on the grill we ate well which was necessary considering the days were spent clearing the knee deep foliage and 40+ trees down around our house. <br /> <br />So, what will I be doing to prep for the possibility of a little trouble from Irene? Nothing really exciting but things that will make life a little more comfortable should we have a few days of power being out or roads being flooded and the like. <br /> <br />The current forecast has Irene passing Virginia between Saturday evening and Sunday evening. So the first step, which has already been done is to develop a threat assessment. Look at what the potential interruptions to daily life will be, how severe they will be, and how to mitigate the threat. We covered those above. Next is to develop a plan with a schedule to execute those last minute preparations so you aren't running around crazy at the last minute. The point is to minimize disruption of daily life as much as possible. <br /> <br />Over the last few days I have been building my threat assessment with plan and schedule. The following is my schedule of plans: <br /> <br />Wednesday: <br />-Check fuel for camp stoves, grills, etc. <br />-Check batteries, etc. <br />-Check food stocks. <br />-Check status of misc disposables (TP, Soap, Shampoo, etc.) <br />-Check ammo, gear, etc. <br />-Review any to do list items that have been 'put off'. <br />-Perform a house walk around. <br /> <br />Thursday: <br />-Exchange empty propane tank for grills. While I have a couple that I rotate through there is no sense in having an empty sitting around with a chance of needing it. <br />-Plus up on water and staples from the wholesale club for the time frame of event. While I usually fill up Klean Kanteens or Nalgenes from a filter having fresh bottled water available in smaller than gallon containers is helpful. Once the freezer and frig are stocked I fill the dead space with water. Once cool/cold they act as a buffer should the power go out. <br />-Plus up on any disposables that are down and add the expected time period of disruption. <br />-Address any issues found during walk around of structure. <br />-Secure any items that may be damaged by wind or water (either rain or expected flooding). <br /> <br /> <br />Friday: <br />-Organize and inventory stocks. This is particularly important for the frig/freezer. Having an inventory will limit the number of times you have to open the unit to get food out for meals which will help to keep the cold air in and the warm air out. <br />-Fuel up vehicles. I would do this with a little time to spare and then top off just before the storm is about to hit. In the event a storm that isn't supposed to hit hard changes at the last minute you won't end up getting no fuel due to a run on the pumps. You also don't want to be forced into waiting in a 30 vehicle line with half a tank of gas as opposed to having the option to decide when you are down a days worth of driving from a full tank. For most that will be no more than a 1/4 tank. <br /> <br />Saturday Early: <br />-Review weather reports. <br />-Update threat assessment. <br />-Address any 'holes' in plan. <br />-Sweep the house for laundry and dishes. Anything that would take water to perform. <br />-If you have a second bath with a bath tub consider blocking the drain and filling up with water. This allows you to have water for flushing toilets or basic clean up. I would suggest cleaning the tub first. <br /> <br /> <br />This event is a pretty easy one for us. There is a very low risk of issue and the issues are likely short term even if we took a hard hit. No one has recommended any kind of evacuation for our area and it doesn't look like any recommendations will come out. That being said though, the model of Assess, plan/schedule, execute works whether you are expecting a direct hit or you are on the fringe of the storm path. It is the details of the plan that will change based upon your assessment. <br /> <br />That is all for tonight, stay tuned for how this plays out. I will try to update the blog and facebook over the next week with any updates to how preps work out and any interruptions of service from APC. Remember this is a broad view and not a step by step. Much has been glossed over since many preps for unexpected events are integrated into daily to-dos. <br /> <br />Stay Sharp, <br /> <br />Mike <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-7025915839106460380?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-42819178290072141292011-08-04T18:04:00.000-07:002011-08-04T18:34:47.473-07:00What: Multiple weapon familiarization<br />Where: <a href="http://www.brtc-mission.com/" target="_blank">BeaveRun Readiness Training Center</a><br />When: Aug 1-2, 2011<br /><br />After taking some time off from contracting I have been looking to get back on a gig. I didn't want to show up to assessment and be the weakest link so I have begun getting back into shape and brushing up on skills that I can't do in the standard carbine/pistol/team tactics classes.<br /><br />In early July I contacted 03humpalot to get an info dump on the Intermediate Machine Gun Operators Course and check on the next class date. At that time no classes were scheduled and Buck mentioned that there may be a chance for a less formal opportunity in the near future. A couple days later Buck advised that he and the staff at BRTC would be doing a couple days of range time to work on videos and photos for program development and advertising use and offered me an invitation to come up and get some time on the guns as well as a chance to check out the facility. I told him I was there and he advised on travel and lodging info.<br /><br />I made my reservations at the local Holiday Inn in Beaver Falls, just a few miles from the facility (approximately 7 min drive). BeaveRun does have a special rate which will save you a couple of dollars. The town has most amenities that you would need while there for a class including a number of good mom and pop restaurants, a Walmart, and a number of gas stations and liquor/beer shops. I did see a gun store about a mile from the facility but didn't have time to drop in so not sure how much they have to offer in the way of last minute ammo needs or the like.<br /><br />TD 1 was scheduled to start at 0900 in the class room. Directions to the facility were easy to navigate and when I arrived at the complex I checked in at the 'ECP' with security and was directed to the training building. I was a few minutes early and Buck and staff were there with Tacman71 and Wayneard were already there linking some PKM belts and catching up on old times.<br /><br />We loaded up the little bit of gear that wasn't already staged at the range and headed out. Once on the range we setup some targets Tacman71 (Rob Tackett) had brought up to be used and setup a variety of 'areas' on the range to allow for shooting pistols, carbines, and machineguns on the range without conflict. While there are a number of ranges at the facility we worked on the 100m range which has (from memory) a covered concrete pad with integrated work areas at the primary firing line as well as concrete pads on the left side of the range at 25m, 50m, and 75m, allowing a variety of layouts for specific points of instruction. The entire range has a deep layer of crushed stone to allow for drainage and fight flooding when the weather turns wet. The berms are high and basically cut into a large hillside.<br /><br />The range has ample target stands for paper and quite a bit of steel to allow for a wide variety of instruction and exercises.<br /><br />Once on the range Buck took a solid couple hours to go over the 249 and 240B platforms with me. Having used these on previous contracts but not getting a lot of time on them I had a very basic knowledge of the platforms but had (and still have) a lot to learn. We covered the following (I am sure I am leaving something out):<br /><br />-Concept of the system and how it is best applied<br />-Tear down, inspection points, and reassembly (user level) and function checks<br />-Lube points/pre-mission checks<br />-Setting the gun up for success for various missions as well as how to setup your gear for success (slings, belted ammo, emergency mag, etc)<br />-BZO<br />-Platform options including the fixed and adjustable stock, standard and parasaw barrels, adjustable and fixed gas systems, iron sights and optics<br />-Mission application (vehicles, on foot PSD, on foot patrol, static op/lp, QRF, ambush) and adaption.<br />-Loading/unloading<br />-Malfunction clearance and IADs<br />-Barrel changes<br />-Application of fire on target as a solo gun and in teams<br />-Rates of fire, bursts, barrel life<br /><br /><br />After discussing and practicing dry these things I got behind the platforms and we went through a number of drills to get the hands on and a feel for firing them from various positions.<br /><br />In addition to the 240/249 Buck also brought out his personal PKM and went through the operation of that and we got a chance to shoot it as well. He has done some significant mods to it and it is a nice piece of hardware with quite a bit of weight reduction. Given the opportunity to customize one down range I would really like to set one up similar to his.<br /><br />I easily reached all the goals I had set for getting familiar with systems and then some. Buck definitely knows his stuff and has the ability to communicate it.<br /><br />Later in TD 1 we ran some pistol and carbine drills, shooting on the copious amounts of steel on the range and generally having a good time shooting a variety of guns that everyone had brought out including an M203. Buck ran through a run down on the 203 and we all got a chance to shoot quite a bit of training and practice rounds with a little competition to see who could get the most hits on steel at 100m.<br /><br />Around 1700 we shut down for the day, packed gear, and headed off to clean up and have chow.<br /><br />The next morning we hit the range again running more time on the guns and get video and photos of specific skills and procedures including running some vehicle down drills.<br /><br />In addition to another solid day of shooting the 249/240B/203 Buck broke out a M24A1 with AAC (IIRC) can and everyone took turns shooting it as well. I am not much of a precision gun guy, I have one IBA bolt gun, but that SWS was pretty slick. We also rounded out with some more drills and general shooting.<br /><br />I wan't to say thanks to Buck and Aaron from BRTC, Rob from Tacstrike, Wayneard, Mark S, Mark T, and the rest of the guys that came out. I learned a lot and had a kick ass time.<br /><br />I hit the road after dinner on the 2nd and didn't get all the files but look for some pics and vids to follow.<br /><br />In closing, be sure to check out BRTC and the classes they have to offer. The facility is great and the staff are knowledgeable and passionate about the work they do. A great combination.<br /><br />Pics and Videos:<br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/EeXJ8UEU1lV8SarOlUj4lw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-XYpFzWNC49w/TjtHvwE5WhI/AAAAAAAAAK0/PCTxWmT5CNo/s400/m240B%252520pile%252520o%252520links%252520and%252520brass.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/thirdworldmedic/BRTCAAR?authuser=0&amp;feat=embedwebsite">BRTC AAR</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Early in the day, the pile kept growing...<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/wY220kf8dM2Dc-a_EYKZ5Q?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-GoAqTvt3gPk/TjtHvRZB5II/AAAAAAAAAKs/3XmfSaW8SuY/s400/Buck%252520on%252520SAW.jpg" height="173" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/thirdworldmedic/BRTCAAR?authuser=0&amp;feat=embedwebsite">BRTC AAR</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Buck running the SAW<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/OCdgRZJNiCYR8mp5RbT7AQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-8THen32DL5w/TjtH3OFgEbI/AAAAAAAAALA/etdx6Zr7o0A/s400/rob%252520t%252520on%252520pkm.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/thirdworldmedic/BRTCAAR?authuser=0&amp;feat=embedwebsite">BRTC AAR</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Rob on the PKM<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/7avahqWheh4gTRCLHpw1Zw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mSFOiYTOwQU/TjtHu_4s-rI/AAAAAAAAAKk/V-PLqosjRvo/s400/40mm%252520mike.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/thirdworldmedic/BRTCAAR?authuser=0&amp;feat=embedwebsite">BRTC AAR</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Putting the 203 to work<br /><br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/2CAJudX5eag" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="349" width="560"></iframe><br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2CAJudX5eag">Vehicle Counter Assault Drill (Static camera)</a><br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/e9hnqW2jqU8" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="349" width="425"></iframe><br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e9hnqW2jqU8">Vehicle Counter Assault Drill (CAT SAW Gunner helmet cam)</a><br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/IN5LygcNAcc" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="349" width="425"></iframe><br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IN5LygcNAcc">Buck testing out a new machinegunner go</a><br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IN5LygcNAcc"> bag from EGGROLL</a><br /><br />On the note of steel...<br />I do not remember how many pieces Rob brought down for us to shoot but I would venture to say that spread across the 5-10 targets we cumulatively put 10-15k rounds (a lot of it being green tip 5.56) on the targets, most of it through the 249. All of them held up extremely well with zero plate penetrations and minimal pock marks.<br /><br />As you can see in the vids a number of drills put us pretty close with excellent durability on the target side and no splash or spall on the shooter side.<br /><br />We literally did everything we could with guns and the 203 to try and destroy them and they weathered the storm.<br /><br /><br />Until next time...<br /><br />Stay sharp,<br /><br />Mike<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-4281917829007214129?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Michael Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17503153629092157643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-20766518022500272652011-07-29T12:46:00.000-07:002011-07-29T14:48:30.661-07:00It's been a while. It has been pretty busy here at Austere Provisions Company as we work on expanding our product line up from trusted manufacturers as well as work on developing a number of new projects.<br /><br />Keep an eye out here and on our <a href="http://www.facebook.com/AustereProvisionsCompany">Facebook page</a> for news. The first item is a morale and mindset patch.<br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/eyDKAjT8nV6_2LklvlxpgQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-iWaIfXF4UnU/TcHCHAeW8sI/AAAAAAAAAn4/LoDIgBQFiaI/s400/DSC_3431.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?authuser=0&amp;feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />A reminder to yourself and team mates that walking the warrior path is a thinking mans game and the ultimate weapon in dominating your environment is the brain.<br /><br />This patch stemmed from a group of colleagues I am working with to bring some great new concepts to production to make it easier. Look for more details on this group at a later time.<br /><br />One of the products that we are in final production with is a 2-1 sling device. I have had this idea on the drawing board since late 2007 - early 2008 time frame. At the time I was working in Iraq doing static security and I spent quite a bit of time in and out of vehicles, checking OP/LPs, walking posts or spending time at ECPs and the like. I preferred a single point sling for the ease of getting the gun on target but a two point was much more comfortable for 'walking the beat' and the combination of an adjustable sling (BFG VCAS or VTAC padded sling) and 'wrapping the gun up' made life easier when going hands on for searches or climbing ladders, etc. Not being satisfied with a one or the other solution I started brainstorming solutions. I came up with a couple of solutions and side lined the project while first getting APC stood up.<br /><br />Fast forward to December 2010, I discussed this project with Clint Lynch of Sentinel Design and we started working on executing the concept. Below you can see the pre-production short run for testing.<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/RLhry4_XbV1pks_ABzb_nQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-h91HbgPdYYA/TjMa0O5v82I/AAAAAAAAApU/QkWXv7PyO_8/s400/working%252520prototypes.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?authuser=0&amp;feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />While I am a bit partial I will say that I am really stoked with how this turned out and can't wait to get these on the shelf. The first run is planned to be in FDE (Flat Dark Earth) followed by black as an option in later batches. As depicted in the picture the center hole is for slings with QD connections, the outer holes act both to reduce weight and allow HK hooks or mash hooks to be clipped in should you perform those parts or are using weapons that do not support QD connections. Speaking of weight reduction, the sample shown in the picture is functionally the same weight as a ITW fastex pair (male and female) so you shouldn't notice the extra weight on your sling. While there may be some variation in the production units I don't see it being much more than 0.01 ounce.<br /><br />Once the first batch is done I will be sure to announce them through all of our channels and have a link to the website for purchase.<br /><br />As development on other projects and expanding APC has taken quite a bit of time the blog has not had much information put out. Look for that to change, not just with product of the week but other topics of interest. So stay tuned and be sure to hit check out Facebook and the APC website.<br /><br />Stay sharp,<br /><br />Mike<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-2076651802250027265?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Michael Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17503153629092157643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-60136292372407961322011-02-13T00:22:00.000-08:002011-02-13T00:32:59.223-08:00Austere Provisions was recently notified of the recall of the "Triad Sterile Lubricating Jelly" that we include in our trauma kits and attached to the nasal airways that we sell. Due to the fact that we provide these as give-aways for courses, charity events, and product demos we are trying to get the word out as far as possible. We will replace the lubricant packet at no cost to the customer/recipient of the kit but we need to know if you still have the kit in hand. So, if you have either an IC3, LMS Comprehensive kit, or individual nasal airway that you purchased from Austere Provisions Company please email me at mike@austereprovisions.com for info on how to receive the replacement.<br /><br />As of 02/13/2011 any kits or airways leaving the shop were stocked with a replacement equivalent component not effected by the recall.<br /><br />Detailed information about the recall from the manufacturer:<br /><br />URGENT MEDICAL DEVICE RECALL<br />This is to inform you of a product recall involving Sterile Lubricating Jelly manufactured by Triad Group.<br />This recall has been initiated due to concerns expressed by the Food and Drug Administration regarding the<br />validation of the gamma radiation sterilization cycles for these products. We are initiating this recall because use<br />of inadequately sterilized product might result in patient infection.<br />This recall extends to all Lots of Sterile Lubricating Jelly remaining within their labeled expiration dating (three<br />years), including all Lot numbers beginning with the digits 7, 8, 9, or 0. We began shipping the Lots of product<br />subject to this recall in January, 2007<br />Please immediately examine your inventory and quarantine product subject to recall – any stock of Sterile<br />Lubricating Jelly manufactured by Triad Group. In addition, if you may have further distributed this product, please<br />identify your customers and notify them at once of this product recall. Your notification to your customers may be<br />enhanced by including a copy of this recall notification letter.<br />This recall should be carried out to the user level. Your assistance is appreciated and necessary to prevent<br />potential patient harm.<br />Please complete and return the enclosed response form as soon as possible and return the recalled product to<br />Triad Group.<br />If you have any questions please call Triad Group Customer Service Monday through Friday, between the hours<br />of 8:30 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. Central Time: 262-538-2900 ext 2761.<br />This recall is being made with the knowledge of the Food and Drug Administration.<br />Yours truly,<br />Jack Waterman<br />Jack Waterman<br />Regulatory Affairs Manager<br /><br />__________________________________<br /><br />Thanks for your patience as we work to correct this issue,<br /><br />Mike Griffin<br />Owner<br />Austere Provisions Company<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-6013629237240796132?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-1949832407680760202010-10-24T19:59:00.000-07:002010-10-24T21:16:45.258-07:00How do you tell the difference under low light or no light conditions? How do you prevent a catastrophic incident due to misidentification? Through the use of effective signaling, both passive and active, the chances of incidents like this can be reduced if not prevented.<br /><br />Passive means include items like IR flags, squares, unit patches, ID patches, etc. Active means include items like this week's product of the week: The Neptune Beacon from CEJAY Engineering. Designed to fill a number of roles in order to reduce the overall load today's warrior has to carry in order to complete the mission at hand.<br /><br />Information from the manufacturer:<br /><br /><span class="cejay-product-desc"><p>The Neptune beacon is a multi purpose multi function signal light developed to provide the soldier and officer several ID and illumination tools in one compact package. The Neptune light produces a wide, variable-output, flashing or constant on, IR, Blue or White signal. In flashing IR mode, the intense brightness of the Neptune’s signal allows it to be used as either an individual or vehicle Combat ID marker. In Blue or White signal mode, the beacon can be used as either a land or water distress signal.</p> <p>The Neptune high impact plastic housing and sealed electronics are engineered to withstand harsh environments and chemical exposure. Powered by one CR123A, the Neptune is lightweight, rugged, versatile and submersible to 150 feet making the beacon superbly suited for water to land deployment and special operations applications.</p> <p>Despite its small size, all Neptune functions can be controlled with one hand even when gloved. The Neptune’s signal is turned ON or OFF simply by rotating the battery cap. The single mode selection button allows the user to select light color and move between flashing or constant on signal mode. Brightness level can also be adjusted in constant on mode, making the light useful as either a signaling device or lamp.</p> <p>The Neptune can be attached to PALS webbing, belts, or uniform by using the supplied locking spring clip or wrist mounted with the included wrist strap. The light can also be used with optional head/helmet strap for use as a headlamp.</p></span><span class="cejay-product-desc"><span class="cejay-product-desc"><p><strong>Specifications</strong></p> <p><strong>Weight</strong>: 76 Grams | 2.7 Ounce (with battery)<br /><strong>Size</strong>: 49mm x 27mm | 1.9" x 1.06"<br /><strong>Flash Mode</strong>: Constant ON with Brightness Control | Fixed Flash<br /><strong>Signal</strong>: IR, White, Blue LED<br /><strong>Battery</strong>: One CR123A<br /><strong>Coverage</strong>: 360 degrees x 180 degrees<br /><strong>Switching</strong>: Rotate Battery Cap and Mode Switch<br /><strong>Operating Life</strong>: 100 Hours in Flashing signal mode | 8 Hours at maximum brightness in Constant ON signal mode<br /><strong>Environmental</strong>: Waterproof 150 feet<br /><strong>Options</strong>: Neptune Signal Light (902900)</p></span></span><br />Personal experience:<br /><br />When I met with Steven Bronson of CEJAY in January of this year at SHOT Show and saw the Neptune I was immediately interested. The Neptune offered all the functionality of the current beacon that I was using (IR, White, Blue flash) with the addition of the constant on and the ability to dim. As well, by using the individual LEDs for each light as opposed to a filter this eliminated white light bleed around the filter. The few full size beacons I had in my inventory from Iraq had all been taped up around the joints of the filter to prevent any white light bleed, functionally preventing easy transition from IR to white/blue. Not to mention the reduction in bulk by going to the Neptune.<br /><br />While all that seemed great I was still somewhat cautious with using a new unit and even more cautious about recommending this new design to customers and colleagues. Shortly after SHOT I got signed up with CEJAY as a dealer and purchased a small number of Neptunes, integrating them into my training gear and putting them out to some colleagues for evaluation in a variety of conditions. After approximately three months of use in a variety of applications primarily attached to the body armor of full time instructors and combat developers I felt comfortable recommending them. <br /><br />The unit that I retained for my personal use started life off in a container of water and placed in the on position (blue flash mode) and left in water until the battery died somewhere between day five and six, slightly longer than the rated 100 hours. The unit was removed from the water and exterior dried, battery compartment opened and found to be completely dry. Examination revealed no moisture under lens and battery was replaced revealing normal operation. After this test the unit was attached to my primary plate carrier via a short MALICE Clip (see photos below). While I do like the ability to move the Neptune around with the locking clip, the MALICE Clip offers a more permanent mounting option.<br /><br />The most recent use of this light was at an EAG/Pat Rogers class in Alliance Ohio where we ran through shoot house evolutions in low light conditions. Myself and my partner ran Neptunes on the rear of our vests in order to identify ourselves to each other and the instructors and safety officers while moving through class. While other students used chem lights which were functional for this application the Neptune offered a reusable and multipurpose solution to this requirement as well as many others such as functioning under NVGs. <br /><br />A few pics:<br /><br />Wrist band:<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/JUMHCL3O9u17_2_GS7ef_w?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TMUDeOKMA3I/AAAAAAAAAnI/R017qlNMS3s/s400/DSC_3362.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br />Wrist band in use:<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/2FmRuZkWuECmP9i7ckamHA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TMUD7VatT2I/AAAAAAAAAnM/kWcN-bG6Krs/s400/DSC_3345.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br />Clip:<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/cAwX-nBhbVbC3drbg62nWg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TMUDIflIQpI/AAAAAAAAAnE/a86MEfx_nrU/s400/DSC_3379.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br />MALICE Clip:<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/NLBDmLXB2M_aqFZXgcNhlw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TMUCwoKpwDI/AAAAAAAAAm8/UORiWU0xdsE/s400/DSC_3396.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br />MALICE Clip in use:<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/tomt_woN8HoLJB2OO-RxGQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TMUCYFtsy-I/AAAAAAAAAm0/0bH36MaM3lM/s400/DSC_3413.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br /><br />In addition to identification this light is optimally setup as an emergency signaling beacon. As well, for those that may not need the IR function a training model is available with the same specifications except that the IR LED is replaced with a visible red spectrum LED making it even more well suited for backpackers, adventurers, and the like. <br /><br />Check back in the next few days, I will be adding these to the website and uploading a video explaining the various functions of the Neptune.<br /><br /><br />That is all for tonight,<br /><br />Mike<br /><br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-194983240768076020?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-24792058047481098702010-09-15T21:40:00.000-07:002010-09-16T00:33:17.014-07:00...And bigger isn't always better. Especially when it comes to gear for remote/tactical/austere/etc work. Smaller, more durable, lighter, etc are the characteristics professional adventurers are looking for.<br /><br />This weeks product of the week lives up to the word compact. The Pocket BVM (manufactured by MicroBVM Systems Ltd.) is an adult Bag Valve Mask that is comparable in size to a couple of combat dressings (H Bandage or OLAES Bandage). Back in the day I would take whatever BVM I could find at a reasonable price and vacuum seal it. This worked OK but had a serious memory effect on the material which left you with about half of the tidal volume that the bag started out with, and often hampered 'bounce back' or reinflation after each respiration. It was an imperfect solution at best but it was what we had 'back in the day'. Now with the medical industry actually interested in providers working outside of the hospital and even the urban street we are starting to see equipment that doesnt take up so much space, and some of it is actually getting lighter.<br /><br />Some info from the manufacturer:<br /><br /><div style="margin-top: 16px; font-size: 19px; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><a name="1">The Pocket BVM</a></div> <div style="margin-top: 12px; line-height: 20px; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">The Pocket BVM <span style="font-size: 8px;">TM</span> is Ideal for various emergency and clinical settings where resuscitation and breathing support to the respiratory distressed or non-breathing patient is required along side the space factor.</div> <div style="margin-top: 9px; line-height: 20px; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">The Pocket BVM <span style="font-size: 8px;">TM</span> when packaged is a pocket sized fully functional BVM.</div> <div style="margin-top: 9px; line-height: 20px; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">The Pocket BVM <span style="font-size: 8px;">TM</span> will replace any standard BVM by maintaining all the standard working factors and operation possibilities and will improve the use effectiveness by adding the accessibility, availability and last but not least maximize limited storage space by up to 75%.</div> <div style="margin-top: 72px; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">The Pocket BVM <span style="font-size: 8px;">TM</span> advantages and capabilities</div> <ul style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><li>Up to 75% cube space reduction, space efficient</li><li>Textured grip to prevent slippage </li><li>Single Use eliminates cross contamination </li><li>Superior resistance to high/low temperature unaffecting bag re-expansion</li><li>An Endotracheal Tube can be connected to the Resuscitator </li><li>Deflector, see through mask</li><li>Peep valve adaptor can be attached </li><li>Ergonomic cushioned mask design fits securely to facial contours </li><li>Includes Bag, mask, patient valve, reservoir bag, inlet for oxygen drive line </li><li>Two independent Inlet Valves, The Resuscitator has two independent inlets, one for air, and the other for oxygen. When the Resuscitator is attached to an oxygen supply, it enables to Oxygen the patient.</li><li>The Pocket BVM <span style="font-size: 8px;">TM</span> is easy to use, without operational fatigue, it requires minimum pressure to be compressed and, due to its design, quickly recovers its shape, so as not to cause operational fatigue, even after extended continuous use.<br />The Pocket BVM <span style="font-size: 8px;">TM</span> can be folded compactly to fit a small storage case.</li><li>The Pocket BVM <span style="font-size: 8px;">TM</span> Manual Resuscitators has enhanced performance and reliability. All equipment complies with the Safety Standards </li></ul><br /><br />While I have had this product for some time and been playing with one I dedicated as a demo I have been pleased with the durability. The case is not super tough but at the same time isnt over engineered thus adding unnecessary weight. Outside of the compactness the function is pretty standard of a BVM. It does not include an O2 hose, the green tubing is simply and O2 connection. In order to run O2 to this BVM you would need a double ended push fit section of O2 tubing. To me, this is a major issue as the times I will be using this I will most likely not be carrying an O2 tank and if I am I can spare an extra ounce for the extension tubing.<br /><br />The valve to mask interface uses standard airway fittings, allowing you to connect to any standard airway device such as an ET Tube, King Tube, Combi-Tube, Trach, etc as well as any standard mask. Although, I have been very happy so far with the mas that is provided. It is flexible and gives good compliance as best I have been able to assess on manikins and living tissue. I have yet to have the opportunity to try one on a respiratory or cardiac arrest patient for myself. Considering that I have swapped out all my old vacuum sealed BVMs for the Pocket BVM, should the need arise (and hopefully it doesnt) I will be able to offer a report back on the function.<br /><br />And no review would be complete without a few pics:<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/H8Ai-P5jbpc9IDvQZFn9Og?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TJGepZ6y11I/AAAAAAAAAmQ/RQoqkQ6mv-M/s400/DSC_3222.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br />Diameter at the widest point (the outer ring of the case) is right at 5.25".<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/R92s5ShYoXrIa3O7ThiuGA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TJGeIiOppHI/AAAAAAAAAmM/QWjopt3YtTo/s400/DSC_3239.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br />Thickness measures in at 2.5".<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/0GbTWWK_6fl9kRZanIvCrA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TJGb6WU6lqI/AAAAAAAAAmA/ggctxdTNy_8/s400/DSC_3253.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br />In comparison to a large OLAES Bandage.<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/WUqhG7b1C5ikmqpgUVB9Ew?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TJGbOXiyRFI/AAAAAAAAAl4/reLStH7HEjo/s400/DSC_3270.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br />Each component shown comes packed in the case, Mask-Valve-Bag-Reservoir.<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/w7YWywyQRVeEkLexMCcbkw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TJGep30MoII/AAAAAAAAAmU/pArCobjecgY/s400/DSC_3058.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br />In use with the included mask.<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/Q71CNmCsHtlkoPjXN6BJzA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TJGZZwD27XI/AAAAAAAAAlw/gTv5OA7Bgzw/s400/DSC_3063.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br />In use with a standard ET Tube.<br /><br />In conclusion, if you need a compact BVM for your remote med bag check out the Pocket BVM from Micro BVM.<br /><br />Where to get them:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=MB-PBVM&amp;Click=26">Pocket BVM/Micro BVM now available at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br /><br /><br />Before I sign off...<br /><br />It has been a few weeks since a post, hopefully that will not be a trend. In the months leading up to SHOT everyone, including myself are working to get projects done in time for release early next year. I am looking to get out in the field and get some testing done on some survival gear and have an extensive list of tactical training planned for this fall and next year. So look for some great reviews as well as some AARs which I will be posting so customers, friends, and colleagues can keep up with our activities.<br /><br /><br />Anyway, that is all for tonight, stay sharp,<br /><br />Mike<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-2479205804748109870?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-91760067503464682972010-08-22T15:17:00.000-07:002010-08-22T16:43:29.135-07:00You need it NOW. <br /><br />This weeks Product of the Week is the Blue Force Gear Trauma Kit Now. Since it's release this design has interested me for a number of reasons. The pouch is based on two piece concept which we initially saw in tear off and cable release pouches. Downsides to these are that they are higher profile due to the multiple layers of material required to support the hook/loop attachment system. Some of these pouches are very good, and I have used a number of these but the thickness and protrusion from your armor has to be accounted for when setting your gear up. The Trauma Kit Now (TKN) functions on an insert and pouch concept where the removable portion that carries your med gear simply slides into a fitted pouch. This reduces overall bulk as well as ease of access as it takes minimal strength (as you may see in an injured arm) to slide the insert out vs. overcoming a large panel of hook/loop.<br /><br />Another feature I particularly like about the TKN is the insert design. As opposed to simply making it a pull out pouch it is setup almost like a nylon surgical tray allowing me to lay it on or next to a patient and work from the 'tray' as opposed to setting off the med kit grenade that is seen in some kits where you have to pull 'this' out in order to get to 'that'. Everything is exposed and easily accessed once the tray or insert is pulled out.<br /><br />So let's hear the manufacturers details:<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 8pt;">Blue Force Gear redefines the commonplace first aid kit with the fastest one-handed trauma kit ever - the Trauma Kit NOW!™ Reach for the tab of Trauma Kit NOW! ™ and receive instant access to life-saving supplies even with an injured hand. Tapered carrier design allows the insert to clear the pouch regardless of how full the kit may be. Top of pouch has MOLLE webbing for attaching a Benchmade™ Rescue hook, Trauma Shears, or one of our Tourniquet NOW Strap™ tourniquet holders (available separately). Pouch flap has a Velcro loop field for medical ID patches.<br /></span>Supplies not included.<br /><br /></span></span><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:78%;">Life Time Warranty!<br />MADE IN THE USA</span></p><br />Here is a few pics of one I have setup on a chest rig:<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/tZMt_p90P2ePGvprQ1Bo0w?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/THGXjrovMAI/AAAAAAAAAlE/mkSgqNI6RqY/s400/DSC_2896.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br />The MOLLE footprint for this pouch is 3 columns by 3 rows. Actual footprint, seam to seam, is 4.5w x 6.5h.<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/7gtbQuSxRZFwb-bUqo38LQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/THGb8GcvReI/AAAAAAAAAlM/rl7NOFJTDM8/s400/DSC_2988.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br />Pouch footprint.<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/WQfQOAFctbJh10Ml6AgIqA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/THGXikSlpFI/AAAAAAAAAk8/aEUg4dq8EJ4/s400/DSC_2962.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br />Insert removed. (shown with TMS MED patch and TQN Strap, not included). Insert velcroes closed to allow it to be removed from a vest or belt and tossed in a pack or tossed to an injured team mate without loss of supplies.<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/Wbwkhx-mv_WKidyoCeWlGQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/THGXjCWAH1I/AAAAAAAAAlA/bDRNmq9GYDU/s400/DSC_2944.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br />Once the insert is opened all equipment is easily accessible, to the point that multiple providers could work from a single insert on the same patient.<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/C2tqislHl0FqbJtl6fi-dg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/THGb8cIQF3I/AAAAAAAAAlQ/FvrLb-WEQe8/s400/TKNemptyopen.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br />Insert show empty.<br /><br /><br />In conclusion, I really like this pouch for both self-aid/buddy-aid setups as well as setup for medic-aid either carrying one or multiples on the medic's second line or as rapid treatment kits on the exterior of a med pack. As well, this pouch easily holds both the APC Comprehensive Trauma Kit built for LMS Defense and the APC IC3 Med Kit.<br /><br />Where to get it:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=BFG-M-TKN&amp;Click=26">Blue Force Gear Trauma Kit Now available at Austere Provisions</a><br /><br /><br />Until next time, stay sharp,<br /><br />Mike<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-9176006750346468297?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-11770174690760336002010-08-10T23:34:00.000-07:002010-08-11T11:09:41.995-07:00As you may have seen mention in last weeks post I spent a good bit of time in June and July training. One of the courses that I attended was the LMS Defense No Light Operations course in Alliance, OH. While there I had the opportunity to check out some new and not so new gear from industry developers including Stephen Hilliard and Pat Rogers. Stephen works for Blue Force Gear and while talking between evolutions I had a chance to discuss with him the Ten Speed series of pouches. These have been out for a few years and the line has been growing to meet a wider array of end user's needs. While the idea of a multipurpose, low profile, and light weight pouch intrigued me I had obvious concerns about the durability of such a product.<br /><br />So let's take a look at these things, from the manufacturer's website:<br /><span style="color:navy;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;" ><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">Our Ten-Speed Mag Pouch™ works from the premise that a magazine pouch should have excellent, consistent retention without a lot of securing straps, lids, or flaps to get in the way of a smooth, consistent reload. When not in use, the pouch is designed to lay flat against your vest or carrier so that it is completely discrete and unobtrusive. Primarily intended for personnel performing fast, short duration operations where speed and a low profile are paramount. Due to the use of high performance materials, the Ten Speed Pouch is also extremely lightweight registering barely three ounces on the scale. Not limited to magazines, it will also securely hold some types of Flash Bangs, Strobes, Lights, etc. Attaching to any MOLLE/PALS surface, its use is only limited by your imagination. The Blue Force Gear Ten Speed Pouch™ is made out of military-grade heavy duty elastic and Cordura fabric/webbing right here in Georgia.</span><br /></span></span></span><br /><br />During class a number of students used the Ten Speed M4 pouch to hold M4 mags but also to hold other items such as trauma kit contents, radios, flashlights, and flash bangs. While some may be thinking, "yeah, and..., I can do that with a standard triple M4 pouch". My response to that is, when you dont need to carry anything in that triple M4 pouch you now have a bulky pile of cordura sitting there that will easily get caught on any obstruction it can find when moving through a structure or in brush, not to mention the weight whereas the Ten Speed pouches are elastic based they tighten up and lay flat when not in use reducing the overall profile of your gear and they are quite trim on the weight side (weights of Ten Speed M4 Pouches: Single-1.4oz, Double-2.7oz, Triple-3.2oz).<br /><br />As someone who appreciates modularity in a pouch (or most anything) the Ten Speed Series gets my vote since it offers a relatively secure package that can handle small or large items without having to spend your evening weaving MOLLE/PALS to prep for a class or a mission that has different requirements from normal gear setup. As well, for me a big benefit of this series is the ability to stash a Ten Speed Triple M4 on the back of my vest and have the ability to run my rig in more of a traditional shooters platform sans med pack and should I need to transition back to a med pack or ruck I can simply remove the contents whether they be mags, smoke, or bangs and there is no unnecessary bulk under my pack that would increase profile. To me it is a win-win.<br /><br />While all of these things were positives and points I had already evaluated I had not had the opportunity to thoroughly evaluate extended use of the pouches. Having a chance to talk to Pat and look over his gear which included Ten Speed Pouches I was pleasantly surprised to see that while well worn the materials and craftsmanship had held up and continued to have quite a bit of life left in them, even after years of regular use (by my accounting Pat averages 4-6 blocks of instruction a month which equals a good bit of time in gear). This shouldnt be a surprise though as just with all Blue Force Gear the Ten Speed series is all Made In The USA with domestic components and while the price may be slightly higher than some of the options available at your local discount surplus store you wont be able to find a comparable design or execution from any of the knock off brands.<br /><br />So after all that, I decided to pick a few of these up and stick them on some gear to get a feel for how best to integrate them. The one shown below is a triple that I have placed on my primary med bag. This bag is setup as an assaulter's med bag, the intent is to have a relatively low profile with the primary capability of treating and stabilizing life threatening injuries in a warm zone environment prior to moving to a cold zone or CCP where more definitive support equipment can be staged. For that reason the Ten Speed Triple works perfectly to plus up the fire superiority component of care under fire and allow me to carry extra mags, smoke, or bangs that either I can use through removal of the pack or team mates can use by working off my pack and me working off their pack or vest.<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/eXYPhkyjo5LDc2_3earCiQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TGJFbgOjv_I/AAAAAAAAAkg/dV7xdSE-iyI/s400/DSC_2853.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Extra Bullets<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/juqv3mf7az9Ni1kvz-iUGw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TGJFb0CPRhI/AAAAAAAAAkk/ZSTm1laXOcM/s400/DSC_2871.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Or Extra "Band-aids"<br /><br />So, if you need a lightweight and low-profile/low-bulk solution to carrying your fighting load take a look at the Ten Speed series of pouches.<br /><br />Where to get them:<br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=BFG-TS-TM4&amp;Click=26">Blue Force Gear Ten Speed Triple M4 Mag Pouches at Austere Provisions Company<br /></a><br /><br />Look for more offerings of Blue Force Gear products at Austere Provisions Company, BFG is making a solid product with solid designs and putting Americans to work. I personally take pride in carrying such a product and supporting such a company and I believe the customers of Austere Provisions Company feel the same way.<br /><br />So, until next time, stay sharp and stay safe,<br /><br />Mike<br /><br />Honorable Mentions: (Look for these more often)<br /><br /><a href="www.lmsdefense.com">www.LMSDefense.com</a><br /><a href="www.eagtactical.com">www.EAGTactical.com</a><br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-1177017469076033600?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-63502512869673937952010-07-30T16:28:00.000-07:002010-07-30T17:49:14.149-07:00After no posts for a few weeks we are back. Since the beginning of July I (Mike) have been on the road taking classes to freshen up on skills as well as get the opportunity to work through some new concepts and network with some industry partners. To start I ran up to Alliance, OH to attend the LMS Defense No Light course and function as med support as well as cover some of the logistical support. This class was great on many levels considering I had the opportunity to get back together with my buds from LMS, meet Pat Rogers of EAG Tactical, train and network with both Stephen Hilliard from Blue Force Gear, and Clint L. from FNH, not to mention the guys from APD who were stellar hosts and tacticians. Formal AARs are available <a href="http://www.lmsdefense.com/forum/index.php?topic=6720.msg58338#new">here</a> and <a href="http://lightfighter.net/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/458100756/m/103104037/p/1">here</a> (requires registration, make sure to follow instructions about posting an intro). Note: The hack for carrying chemlights on a grenade ring shown in a previous post proved to not be a solid concept. As I mentioned in the post this was untested, we tested this during class and consistently lost chemlights. I have moved to carrying mine in the elastic loops of an EAG Tactical Dump Pouch, works great.<br /><br />Once class was over in Ohio I headed home to do a bit of laundry, grade some tests and head off to my part time teaching job at a local Paramedic program. Once laundry was done and I had enjoyed a few days with my family I hopped on a plane to Reno, NV to attend Firearms Instructor Development at the LMS Defense Combat Development Center located just up the road in Fernley, NV. An excellent course with a great group of warriors and the opportunity to play with some hardware while updating our software. AARs available <a href="http://www.lmsdefense.com/forum/index.php?topic=6740.0">here</a> and <a href="http://lightfighter.net/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/458100756/m/712109737">here.</a> After finishing up Instructor Dev I stuck around to help teach the Low Light course running Saturday and Sunday. The class was filled with a great group of students. The first evening was made rather "sporting" by a pretty solid dust storm rolling in but everyone endured with an even greater appreciation for full light/full visibility shooting environments. The rest of the evening and the following night presented perfect weather for a solid class. The AAR for Low Light can be found <a href="http://www.lmsdefense.com/forum/index.php?topic=6756.0">here</a>. So after a couple hours of cleaning and packing gear and a few minutes of shuteye it was time to get back on a plane (or three) and head home in time to grade a few more tests and teach some classes.<br /><br />On to this weeks Product Of The Week...<br /><br />For some time now I have been working on finding a way to better streamline my gear as well as set it up in a graduated or scalable manner. Rationale being that I dont always need "everything", meaning not all training or operational missions require a complete belt rig, plate carrier/vest/chest rig, and assault pack/assaulters med ruck/etc and setting up each component so that I have a little bit of the essentials on each line allows me to tailor my gear to the mission. For a good bit of time there was no good solution for carrying med gear on your first line. When in Iraq I usually just tossed a dressing of some sort, a tourniquet, a nasal, and a decompression needle in a cargo pocket and pressed on. It wasnt comfortable, it was bulky, and routinely caught on things when getting in and out of vehicles or crawling into the access hatches of OP/LPs. After not using a battle belt for quite some time I recently went back to using one as the designs have come a long way in the last few years. I opted for the Blue Force Gear SOC-C Modular Padded Belt Kit. I chose this kit for a number of reasons, the company is solid, it is completely American Made, it is well thought out, and gives the user the option of adding armor for added protection. <br /><br />Once I got my belt setup to carry bullets I started looking at options for carrying "bandaids" (med gear). Initially I dug out an old GPS pouch and stuffed a SWAT-T and Primed gauze in it and used that. After looking at designing a 1st line med pouch I decided to order a couple of Blue Force Gear Boo Boo Pouches to see what they would hold for trauma gear. Turns out they are sized just right for a wrap TQ and some form of packing material, whether it be Primed gauze or QuikClot Combat Gauze.<br /><br />Here is a few pics:<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/YVgQZAGv-hMeNmelwRKJ0w?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TFNcVn3Q7YI/AAAAAAAAAj0/y7hEuDvBnKA/s400/DSC_2792.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br />Pouch only<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/ZCtrSj0T68seIfFz9QV7fg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TFNcxScFN4I/AAAAAAAAAkA/G2ax_0jzooE/s400/DSC_2808.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br />Pouch with Primed Gauze and SWAT-T<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/xSKw0CozXt1EPv82xNw20g?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TFNdCytLFoI/AAAAAAAAAkE/14vFgwbqaOE/s400/DSC_2823.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br />Pouch with Primed Gauze and TK-4 (TK-4L also fits)<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/uPN7LBNdC4zei_PffRyWrA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TFNdPZWfzWI/AAAAAAAAAkI/hiWo8NEWr_Y/s400/DSC_2838.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br />Pouch mounted on Blue Force Gear SOC-C belt, this one is mine and is packed with a SWAT-T and QC Combat Gauze.<br /><br />So why did I do this and what are the benefits: I can ditch my armor and keep my belt rig on either while in a secure area or while running drills where armor is not necessary and may hamper the learning process but I can maintain a minimum of med gear. Just enough to stop a major bleeder until I can either get to my med pack or my vest or until a buddy can get reinforcements to me. As well, distributing gear across your 1st, 2nd, and 3rd lines allows for better distribution and prevents one line of gear from becoming overly cumbersome.<br /><br />Where to get these pouches:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=BFG-M-BBKP&amp;Click=26">Blue Force Gear Boo Boo Kit Pouch at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br /><br />That is all for this week, got a couple of new items in plan to do detailed reviews on some established items in the next few weeks. Looking forward to it. Until next time, stay sharp, stay safe,<br /><br /><br />Mike<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-6350251286967393795?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-40379353514264003972010-07-05T15:59:00.000-07:002010-07-05T16:49:11.175-07:00Before we get into product of the week I just wanted to take a moment and wish everyone a happy 4th of July. I hope everyone took a moment to remember just what the 4th is all about and that we all have a lot to be thankful for because we (the Americans in the audience at least) could be living in a very different country and world had certain individuals not stood up against the strongest country of the time and said NO MORE! As well, a big thanks to all the vets out there who have worked so hard to maintain the security of what our forefathers put in place.<br /><br />So, onto the product of the week:<br /><br />When you need a tourniquet...<br /><br />You need it NOW! That is where the name came from for the Tourniquet NOW! Strap from Blue Force Gear. For years I have resisted the urge to use a dedicated holder for my TQs and always opted to stash them on retention straps for tear off med pouches or to simply rubber band them into the MOLLE on my vests, plate carriers, or packs. At SHOT this year I got a chance to play with a number of Blue Force Gear products and really liked the new additions to the line. I have been using BFG slings for years and they have always held up no matter what the application from training to deployments. Couple that with the fact that all products with the Blue Force Gear name on them are made right here in The USA and it is hard to go wrong.<br /><br />I recently added Blue Force Gear to the line up here at Austere Provisions Company and as usual I made a starter order of products that I wanted to try out based on industry feedback as well as personal interest. The Tourniquet Now! Strap was one of those starter items and I have been playing around with it and have been very pleased with both the durability and how much more low profile of a solution it is over my long standing rubber band technique.<br /><br />Let's see what BFG has to say about it and then we can get into some more details...<br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:78%;">Our Tourniquet NOW! Strap is an easily attached adapter that securely mounts a tourniquet or similar sized object to any MOLLE surface for instant access. Bands can be used in two different configurations to fit currently available combat tourniquets.<br /><br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Short, sweet, and to the point. Some more details. The strap is made with a polymer stiffener to create a firm foundation that simply slides into MOLLE loops allowing elastic bands to stick out between the rows of MOLLE.<br /><br />Here is a pic of the strap not in MOLLE:<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/V10MEoUYxxU7zWXEB1sdkw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TDJpyswL0mI/AAAAAAAAAjY/6wmm1wNPOP4/s400/DSC_2723.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br /><br />Here is a comparison shot with my more traditional method of securing.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/FEEtp5KliNXinL7_fgKszg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TDJqL9rrmhI/AAAAAAAAAjg/4nHh4IZsrns/s400/DSC_2691.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br /><br />An important factor in preventing these from coming loose in either securing method is placement on your gear. Ideally you would place these up on your chest where they are both easily reached in the event you need the tourniquet as well as are slightly more protected than down on the lower trunk section of gear. I kept TQs strapped to my chest my entire time in Iraq and never had one come loose unless I was pulling it off to put it to use. Now I have heard of a single report of a SOFT-T coming loose from a Tourniquet Now! Strap, I think this can be avoided with good placement and giving a glance over your gear before go time to make sure everything is tight and right.<br /><br />To reduce the profile of the SOFT-T on my vest I fold it so that the clasp mechanism is offset to one end and tuck the windlass retainers under the windlass. This reduces the possibility of things get caught on the TQ iteself. As well I turn the clasp towards the vest so it is not sticking out further reducing the likelihood that it would catch on anything during movement. Here is a more detailed shot of what I feel is a solid placement and packaging:<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/N_mJMSfAUCnPfy3cteV5GQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TDJp_B2CQDI/AAAAAAAAAjc/3fQMdWzEd9g/s400/DSC_2709.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />So, where to get this thing:<br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=BFG-M-TNS&amp;Click=26"><br />Blue Force Gear Tourniquet NOW! Strap available at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br />Until next week, stay sharp and stay safe,<br /><br />Mike<br /><br /></span></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-4037935351426400397?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-63814480757340570422010-06-25T15:21:00.000-07:002010-06-25T16:51:09.250-07:00And a new hack.<br /><br />After a few weeks of absence taking care of a few new projects and getting settled back in after the LMS Defense Customer Appreciation Weekend (<a href="http://www.lmsdefense.com/forum/index.php?topic=6655.0">check AAR Here</a>) it is good to finally be putting up another product of the week.<br /><br />This weeks product is AmeriGlo Light Sticks. An obvious addition to our Low Light segment of products, providing users with a safe, cool to the touch, disposable light source for direct illumination of an area or for signaling in various ways.<br /><br />A little information from the manufacturer:<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);font-size:85%;" >Our most popular item! AmeriGlo's 6" light stick is always individually foil wrapped to insure bright and dependable light when needed.<br /><br />Used by military, law enforcement, paramedics, campers, hikers, scouts, utility companies, hotels, schools, boaters, and well-prepared individuals. Emergency personnel and troops alike prefer AmeriGlo light sticks for its versatility in the field, using this special locking hook.</span><br /><br />Color Specific information from the manufacturer:<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);font-size:85%;" >Green is the brightest color in the 12-hour product category. The 6" green light stick provides adequate light for a standard-sized hotel room (or household bedroom) for 12 hours.<br /><br />Yellow is the 2nd brightest color in the 12-hour product category. The 6" yellow light stick is ideal for illumination, marking, and signaling.<br /><br />Red is often used in training exercises when many colors are needed. Red is also a 'stop/warning' indicator.<br /><br />The infrared light stick can only be seen (in its glowing state) via certain grades of night vision devices. The AmeriGlo IR stick has special raised bumps (patent pending) on the stick's housing, allowing the end-user to quickly and safely distinguish the IR stick from a visible spectrum colored light stick prior to activation. This unique feature can be a life-saver in covert operations </span><br /><br /><br />While AmeriGlo makes a wide variety of colors and sizes of light sticks we have opted to start with the most popular colors field use which also happen to be the colors (visible light sticks) used for triage during mass casualty incidents, so these can pull double duty for our customers that are First Responders and looking for a light source or signaling capability for an aid bag. The IR light sticks are something that have been requested by a number of our customers for training and operational use under night vision, for those not familiar you must have a night vision device to observe light produced by the IR light sticks.<br /><br /><br />In a market where numerous companies produce a similar product it is the fine details that stand out and make a single product lead the pack. AmeriGlo and their light sticks are that product. Details such as the following are why we choose AmeriGlo:<br /><br />-Small latching hook at tip of light stick for clipping onto gear<br />-Innovative product development such as stippling on IR light sticks for tactile identification under light discipline<br />-Durable packaging to increase shelf life<br />-Consistent product<br />-Ease of interaction and customer service<br /><br />A few photos of the light sticks:<br /><br />Visible colors<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/ygTXrQAV-_q-4l3MonDNNQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TCUzhX666KI/AAAAAAAAAiI/rt34pg3Iw5I/s400/DSC_1965.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />IR (should have an adapter for my DSLR soon to shoot with my PVS-14 and get some good low light shots)<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/3FxfJY7DiCiLrSWHT3nx4A?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TCU2h7AsSQI/AAAAAAAAAjA/SzZ_Q-KHJ2Q/s400/DSC_2151.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />Latching Hook:<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/vopDDVbXiQNBCpdqR0s7mA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TCUziQGAmUI/AAAAAAAAAiM/PwtNrkMDJVk/s400/DSC_1985.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />Solid Loop:<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/dO502sgula-APM8GZoTvww?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TCUziyazJMI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/PjCv0_marMc/s400/DSC_2004.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br /><br />And of course I mentioned in the intro that I had a new hack this week. For a long time guys have been carrying light sticks on their tac gear, now I dont want to go into too much detail about the why but while playing around with shooting photos today I found what may be a solid new way to carry these for rapid deployment. A little background on the motivation: I am always trying to streamline my kit by reducing weight, bulk, and anything that can catch the environment around me when training or working. Anytime in the past that I have carried light sticks on my vest for quick deployment I have hung them off a carabiner through a loop of 550 cord or if I was using another model of light stick I had to tie 550 cord through the enclosed loop of the light stick and I just clipped the cord loop into the carabiner. Not liking the carabiner because of the bulk and the likelihood of it snagging on something I have looked for a better solution. Today while setting up a photo I decided to clip some of the light sticks into a grenade pull ring and then clip into the biner. Looking at the system the biner suddenly seemed unnecessary and I pondered other ways of attaching it to a section of MOLLE on my vest.<br /><br />I ended up coming up with the idea to simply use a small section of 550 cord to larks foot around the pull ring and then larks foot around the MOLLE. This created a low profile, stowable clip in point for my light sticks that was less likely to catch on stuff, quieter, smaller, lighter, and all around cool. Below is a setup guide on how to put this together since my ability to paint a picture with words may not have been sufficient:<br /><br />Take a pull ring and larks foot a section of 550 cord through it. I found that a 13-14" piece of non gutted 550 is just long enough to complete both larks foots and minimize excess. You could probably make it shorter if you gutted it.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/ToNo85G3LZmLSg_gr3X9AQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TCU2FONu_LI/AAAAAAAAAi4/BwalWJWf_SI/s400/DSC_2134.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />Slide the 550 cord through a section of MOLLE (shown on clear section of MOLLE)<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/lFYN2lMlAyCQzOtK1vC10A?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TCU2ErE7l5I/AAAAAAAAAi0/VTPaQZMcbSs/s400/DSC_2118.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />And larks foot around the MOLLE (I stowed the knot behind the webbing, photo may be slightly deceiving):<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/96ruaPG4vQMAgZGIXVv3hA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TCU2Dhw2-vI/AAAAAAAAAis/EB51K_7tLyM/s400/DSC_2082.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />Hang your light sticks:<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/tylGbej6QY5BKimnnMf8-w?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TCU2EAM-quI/AAAAAAAAAiw/OcANRq5IpDU/s400/DSC_2101.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />I like to hang mine between pouches that have a small gap so that they dont bang around as much (reduce profile, noise, and possible loss) so you perform the same technique on an occupied section of MOLLE between the pouches:<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/euoJA4T3lnlvoPX0m8CEUw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TCU2DHxD60I/AAAAAAAAAio/MuEvUKKBkOw/s400/DSC_2054.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />End Result:<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/xsiDCeSsVUTbUvUkcFGtMw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TCUzjAV5G_I/AAAAAAAAAiU/HuqW0_oJLg4/s400/DSC_2022.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />Another Angle:<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/TDYkjycybRl5WHpLsjxJcw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TCUzjoQVDPI/AAAAAAAAAiY/FqzSVBO1ux4/s400/DSC_2041.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />As I said before, I literally just came up with this today so it will take some time on the range and in the shoot house to vet but it may be a solid solution to streamlining and cutting ounces from your gear. Not to mention pull rings are cheap as long as you have a source for them ;-).<br /><br /><br />Where to buy this stuff, huh? Right here:<br /><br /><a href="https://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=AG-LS-6&amp;Click=26">AmeriGlo 6" Light Sticks in visible spectrum colors (Red, Yellow, Green) at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=AG-IR-6&amp;Click=26">AmeriGlo 6" Light Sticks in InfraRed spectrum at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br /><br />That's all for this week, stay sharp, stay safe,<br /><br />Mike<br /><br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-6381448075734057042?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-22467143041791949762010-06-07T20:09:00.001-07:002010-06-07T20:15:38.288-07:00We are busily packing gear up to head out to Fernley Nevada to the LMS Defense Combat Development Center (CDC) to attend the Customer Appreciation Weekend. We will be closing up shop on Wednesday June 9th at 1600 and reopening on Tuesday June 15th at 0800. If you have an urgent gear need, drop us a line at 540-632-2272 or by email (preferred) at mike@austereprovisions.com and we will do whatever we can to help get you squared away in our absence.<br /><br />While we are away we plan to get some good shots of gear in use so check back here next week for some new photos of your favorite gear being run through the sand and scrub brush.<br /><br />Until next week, stay sharp and stay safe,<br /><br />Mike<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-2246714304179194976?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-23396017724676423152010-05-30T22:28:00.000-07:002010-05-30T23:44:38.045-07:00And say thank you for all that you have and remember today, Memorial Day, is a day for those that paid the ultimate price for freedom so that the rest of us could enjoy the liberties we have. No matter your opinions on the direction this country is headed or where you would like to see it go remember that life would be very much different if it wasnt for those individuals that laid there life down for all of us.<br /><br />In addition to being a day of remembrance, Memorial Day indicates the beginning of summer and while hydration is important any time of the year when you are working at max output it becomes particularly important when the heat gets cranked up. At Austere Provisions Company we have a few tools to help you stay hydrated and mission effective. One of those is the product of the week: Vitalyte ERS (Electrolyte Replacement Solution).<br /><br />Vitalyte is one of those longstanding favorites of mine (Mike) that I have been using for years, since it was called Gookinaid. The first time I used this stuff was on my first trip to Central America where I participated in a 15 day expedition medicine course. I landed on training day zero and started that night. I knew ahead of time that hydration would be an issue as I would be well into the class by the time I was starting to acclimate, it didn't help things that I was coming from the mountains of Virginia in January and the difference in temperature was 60-70 degrees. Knowing that I packed plenty of Gookinaid and water bottles. I kept myself to a strict hydration plan of basically keeping a water bottle within arms reach at all times and to constantly sip while at rest, prehydrate before heading to the field, and get a few gulps in on a regular basis when on the move. I stayed on a cycle of two liters of plain water to one liter of Gookinaid and I stayed well hydrated that entire trip.<br /><br />It was only after that trip where I got lax during other training episodes where I ever really had issues with dehydration and when I really found Vitalyte/Gookinaid to be a lifesaver. Vitalyte has all the good for you stuff in it but doesnt taste like punishment while not having so much sugar in it that you slow hydration or worse. Vitalyte contains a balanced amount of sodium and potassium with a touch of glucose to help move things from the gut into the bloodstream, all of this in an isotonic mixture so your body doesnt have to flood your gut with water to dilute it down like some "sports" drinks. On top of all that goodness you have the option of four great flavors: Fruit Punch, Zesty Orange, Natural Lemonade, or Cool Citrus. My personal favorites are the Zesty Orange and Natural Lemonade.<br /><br />Anyway, enough of my science lesson let's look at what the manufacturer has to say:<br /><br /><p style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" align="justify"><span style="font-size:100%;">Electrolytes are essential in the hydration equation. Whether you're an athlete, weekend warrior or outdoor enthusiast; sick, pregnant, traveling or just hung-over, you'll need something to combat dehydration. Enter Vitalyte™: a straightforward, simple electrolyte drink that replaces fluids, electrolytes and Vitamin C lost with dehydration.<br /></span></p><p style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" align="justify"><span style="font-size:100%;">Vitalytes electrolyte formula hydrates, replenishes, energizes and revitalizes, all while maintaining that perfect electrolyte balance of the four core electrolytes: sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium. We pay special attention to the dynamic duo: sodium and potassium since these are the first two minerals lost and play the leading role in hydration. Our sodium/potassium balance is the ideal marriage for hydrating thirsty bodies with exactly what they need and nothing they don't. Not too much sodium, not too little potassium and the optimal amounts of calcium and magnesium. And because Vitalyte is made almost entirely of glucose - the only sugar that doesn't have to be digested - it's isotonic which means that it matches to the body's fluids that are being absorbed directly from the stomach into the blood, similar to an IV. </span></p><p align="justify"><span style="font-size:9pt;"><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);font-size:100%;" >Rapid and effective, Vitalyte has no "extra" unnecessary ingredients to slow you down. Your blood volume increases, your energy is replenished and your thirst is conquered. It's that simple... electrolytes replacing electrolytes. Period. We've done the research. We've done the math. And we feel that we've created the perfect formula for hydration. It's up to you what to do next.</span><br /></span></p><p align="justify">So, if you are a man (or woman) of action and need a hydration solution that can keep up with you, we believe that Vitalyte is the answer. As you may have read earlier, I said I had been using Vitalyte since it was Gookinaid. One of the nice things about the rebranding was that it brought about new sizes to suit your needs, everything from the stick packs to the original quart size up to the kilo size for hydrating a team or class.</p><p align="justify">Since I know you all love pics, here's a few:</p><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/JLjCX6aaawF01VTKa7DVOQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S15b7PwT6SI/AAAAAAAAANc/tp5ioKTGe70/s400/DSC_0517.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Sticks<br /><br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/KEfkaiNbD5rGdtclIHsSAA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S15b6wgJVGI/AAAAAAAAANY/4KqJBjNCaBs/s400/DSC_0504.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Quarts<br /><br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/pAmU_oERZg2DSIz7KjMsDQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/TANTon667eI/AAAAAAAAAhs/RlrFC_nmUyg/s400/vitalytekilo.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Kilos<br /><br />Where to get it? You know the deal...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=VIT-SPNO&amp;Click=29">Vitalyte Stick Packs in Flavorful Fruit Punch, Zesty Orange, Natural Lemonade, or Cool Citrus at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=VIT-Q&amp;Click=29">Vitalyte Quart Packs in Flavorful Fruit Punch, Zesty Orange, Natural Lemonade, or Cool Citrus at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=VIT-K&amp;Click=29">Vitalyte Kilo Cans in Flavorful Fruit Punch, Zesty Orange, Natural Lemonade, or Cool Citrus at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><p align="justify"><span style="font-size:100%;">That's all for this week, stay hydrated, stay sharp, and stay safe,</span></p><p align="justify"><span style="font-size:9pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Mike</span><br /></span></p><br /><p align="justify"><span style="font-size:9pt;"><br /></span></p><br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-2339601772467642315?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-55458987415517040012010-05-23T20:01:00.000-07:002010-05-23T22:35:46.625-07:00Or in this case the container, The SUMA Container that is. This weeks product of the week is The SUMA Container from Fastfire, a division of SOLKOA.<br /><br />Some of you may be thinking to yourself, as you often do when reading the APC Blog, "self, SUMA seems like an odd name, I wonder if it means anything?" You would be correct, it stands for SOLKOA's Ultralight Multi-purpose Aluminum container.<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/2OLdMYWVDDKbTGDDr35RRA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S_nuKNtaMOI/AAAAAAAAAhE/-U-iZ2IssQI/s400/DSC_1864.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />So let's see what the manufacturer has to say about this thing:<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Solkoa's Ultralight Multi-purpose Aluminum container is engineered to withstand the worst of conditions and to be used for multiple purposes. Designed for the minimalist, the ultra-lightweight enclosures are machined out of billet 6061 aluminum, which makes them four times lighter than stainless steel and half the weight of titanium. </span> <span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Protect the contents of your expensive survival tools with the best enclosure on the market, used by adventure professionals worldwide. </span><ul style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><li>Hard anodized, suitable for cooking</li><li>Can also be used for digging</li><li>Outside dimensions: 2-1/2"w x 4"l x 1-1/2"d</li><li>Weight: 3.1oz</li></ul>My thoughts:<br /><br />When I first saw the SUMA Container I thought it was pretty slick. I have been carrying and building survival kits for various travels for well over a decade and I have never been satisfied with the containers for smaller kits. I have used everything from the mint tins, to super duty zip baggies, small Pelican style cases, mini water bottles, plastic soap dishes, etc. You name and I probably tried it. While I do like the Witz Sport Cases that I use to build the Austere Provisions Company Survival Kits out of they are limited in functionality beyond use as a case and while holding true to the ideal of finding gear that has multiple purposes I kept looking for the ultimate survival kit container.<br /><br />So far, the SUMA is the winner. It is a tough little work of art and would not be out of place as the change holder for a luxury sedan with a sticker price of six figures but it is so much more. The weight is deceptive when you pick it up because it looks as though it is built like a tank but feels like a feather and the real deception kicks in when you start to abuse it. I am pretty sure at one point during my torture session that I heard a little snicker and something about "is that all you've got?" come out of this thing.<br /><br />The packaging and description from the Fastfire website says that it is "hard anodized, suitable for cooking" followed by "can be used for digging". So I said, "what the hey, lets hit the woods" and set out to see if this thing could hold up. As you will find in the video I started with a small amount of water brought to a boil over an Esbit stove using the standard Esbit fuel tabs. Result: a small amount of discoloration and residue from the fuel tab which washed off with a rinse in the stream and no obvious distortion or structural weaking. Next I upped the heat a little with a Jetboil stove to see just how tough the finish was and if the aluminum could handle the stress. As you can see, no problems at all.<br /><br />The third portion of the video is the digging test. I save the digging for last because I wanted to use the heat of the boiling tests to strain the metal and see if it could handle some hard labor after the rapid heating and cooling or if that would weaken the material. I started with a good sized patch of brown matter roughly 1-2" deep, not even a challenge to dig through, followed up with a few inches of top soil which didn't even phase the SUMA. Not only that but I rinsed the container off in the stream and it looked good as new.<br /><br />The vid:<br /><br /><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ItjW0xZcUeM&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ItjW0xZcUeM&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br />Once I was done and packing up I stuffed the survival contents I had thrown together as I headed out the door and replaced the lid on the SUMA container and commented to myself how even after numerous takes using both the Esbit and Jetboil stoves and digging in the dirt the lid still fit like a glove giving no indication of distortion, warping, or other structural change.<br /><br />The lid is retained by two velcro straps with loop on one side and hook on the other. A rectangle of hook on the lid is sized perfectly for an IR US flag or other unit patch aiding in identification during a recovery situation.<br /><br />So, if you have been searching for the ultimate survival container, your search is over and while some may balk at the price I would ponder over this: Most survival gear is functionally disposable, this container is not and you should expect years of use out of it. Not only that but it is made from the highest quality materials right here in the USA.<br /><br />I know you all love seeing pictures, I like taking them so here is a few more:<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/zmz_7ezvTE_pOMa1gZScIg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S_nuKpc2knI/AAAAAAAAAhI/YNiBl-HJE3I/s400/DSC_1880.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/EUzXrY7CEINsfJ2CCdmUTQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S_nuLDJBJKI/AAAAAAAAAhM/NYGBvq_jZl0/s400/DSC_1894.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />A basic kit I put together while heading out the door.<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/EUNiiPBe-_RoOtxiNlpH1A?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S_nuLmjlEPI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/QKL675p228g/s400/DSC_1908.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=FF-SUMA&amp;Click=26">Fastfire SUMA Container available at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-5545898741551704001?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-47189252220036745122010-05-17T14:40:00.000-07:002010-05-17T15:33:50.320-07:00at the <a href="http://www.lmsdefense.com/lms/home/courseinstance/372">LMS Defense Customer Appreciation Weekend in Reno June 11th (evening of) through June 13th</a>. Austere Provisions Company is proud to be attending and will be bringing some gear and the opportunity to hear some schpiel about some of the gear we carry. What does this have to do with Product Of The Week you may ask? Well this week we will be reviewing the Austere Provisions Company Comprehensive Trauma Kit produced under contract for LMS Defense.<br /><br />A little background:<br /><br />This kit came at the request of John Chapman, Director of Training for LMS Defense, when APC was just a brainstorm of mine. Chappy was looking for a more comprehensive kit of multipurpose items than was currently available that also matched the Defensive Medicine curriculum LMS was offering. I worked up a couple ideas for a well rounded package with built in redundancy that would fit both the trained civilian shooter and the professional warrior on the front lines and the LMS kit was born.<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/_Euv9nEr5WNyXzhvReNdmg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S_HDThrOtKI/AAAAAAAAAgk/_bydu05-cfw/s400/DSC_2058.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />Included in the kit:<br /><br /><span class="text colors_text">1-Olaes Modular Bandage 6"<br />1-H&amp;H Primed Gauze<br />1-H&amp;H Combat Medic Reinforcement Tape<br />1-Ultra Robertazi Nasal Airway, 30fr w/ Lubricating Jelly<br />1-SOFT-TQ Gen 2 Tourniquet<br />1-SWAT TQ<br />1-Alcohol Prep Pad<br />1-Iodine Prep Pad<br />2-Safety Pin<br />2-Large Exam Glove, Non-Sterile, Non-Latex, Violet in color<br />2-Medium Exam Glove, Non-Sterile, Non-Latex, Blue in color<br />1-14gax3.25" Hypodermic Needle<br /><br />So what makes this kit different from other kits? For starters we went with the Olaes Modular bandage which includes a bandage, packing material, and an occlusive dressing which we then backed up with Primed gauze for extra packing material or to be used in conjunction with the SWAT-TQ as a secondary pressure dressing. Following the redundancy pattern we went with a true windlass style TQ, the SOFT-TQ, and backed it up with the SWAT-TQ. Couple those items with our core recommended components of two pair of gloves, decompression needle, safety pins, alcohol and iodine prep pads, Combat Medic Reinforcement Tape and you are set to treat some major trauma.<br /><br />Some of you may be thinking: "wow, thats a pretty cool kit but where do I get trained to use such stuff?" At LMS Defense! As I mentioned earlier this kit was designed to go with the Defensive Medicine Curriculum which you can check out here: <a href="http://www.lmsdefense.com/lms/home/course/24">LMS Defensive Medicine Link</a> or maybe you want to step it up a little and take the <a href="http://www.lmsdefense.com/lms/home/course/29">LMS Defensive Medicine/Two Man Tactics Combo Course</a>.<br /><br />If you have taken one of these or any of the other LMS Defense courses then I hope you have signed up for the Customer Appreciation Weekend I mentioned at the beginning of this article. It looks to be a great opportunity to network with other students and instructors as well as see some of the students you trained so hard alongside over the last few years, all the while brushing up on skills and getting the latest and greatest updates that we all need to stay one step ahead the wolves of the world.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=APC+CBOK-LMS&amp;Click=26">Austere Provisions Company Comprehensive Trauma Kit produced under contract for LMS Defense available now</a><br /><br />Are you looking for a custom kit for your team, shooting club, or business? Contact me at mike@austereprovisions.com and we can discuss a build for you.<br /><br />Stay sharp and have a good week,<br /><br />Mike<br /></span><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-4718925222003674512?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-56441786987003256722010-05-09T21:40:00.000-07:002010-05-09T23:00:14.196-07:00But my matches are still working...<br /><br />This weeks product of the week is the newly released UCO Stormproof Match. We originally heard about these late last year (2009) when signing up with UCO/Industrial Revolution as a dealer and were in great anticipation of the release. Well after quite a bit of playing around with them and comparing them to some of the other matches we have used over the years we are happy to add them to the line up.<br /><br />As usual, a little info from the manufacturer:<br /><br />Unlike other “waterproof” or “windproof” matches, the UCO<br />Stormproof matches are easy to light, and will stay lit for up to<br />15 seconds, even after being submersed in water!<br />Being able to reliably make a fire is vital for cooking, generating<br />warmth, and in survival situations, making signal fires.<br /><br />The UCO Stormproof Matches are perfect for camping and<br />emergency kits. The UCO Stormproof matches should be part of<br />every 10 Essentials check list.<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/p5bfGhwJs55IlnYrOoCXYg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S-eIsdZQRlI/AAAAAAAAAgE/h10GSNDfOKE/s400/DSC_2027.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />My take on it:<br /><br />These are what you always wish the old school storm matches actually were. They are longer and thicker thus minimizing breakage during striking, they have a longer more robust application of striker that burns for a full 15 seconds or longer and is truly waterproof to the point that you get an actual flame after dunking. Don't believe it? I wouldn't either, let's go to the video:<br /><br /><object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/76Z3Dffcytk&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;color1=0x3a3a3a&amp;color2=0x999999"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/76Z3Dffcytk&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;color1=0x3a3a3a&amp;color2=0x999999" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="385" width="480"></embed></object><br /><br />As you can see the match takes two dunks in the water and keeps on burning. A note of caution: Don't expect these matches to be extinguished until they have burned out through an exhausted fuel supply. Putting them under water, as you can see, will not extinguish them alone.<br /><br />Not only are the matches pulling extra duty but the manufacturer went the extra mile in the packaging. We offer the 2 pack kit which includes 2 boxes of 25 matches each. Each box has a striker on either side and the has 2 extra full length striker strips for stashing in a match container or survival kit. So if you are looking to outfit a solid fire-starting component to your survival kit, bug out bag, or contingency plans I full recommend these matches.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=UCO-SPM&amp;Click=26">UCO Stormproof Matches now available at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br /><br />Until next week, stay sharp, stay safe, and keep your powder dry (and away from these matches),<br /><br />Mike<br /><br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-5644178698700325672?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-41421681623277429252010-05-03T20:18:00.000-07:002010-05-03T21:19:16.532-07:00It's a light!<br /><br />This weeks product of the week is a favorite of mine and an item I have been using for years: The Photon Freedom Micro from Laughing Rabbit, Inc. These little lights are the third generation (Original Photon Microlight and the Photon II) in the Photon series and are the ones I prefer of all the microlights on the market today. I do still use the Original Photon in some applications where expense/economics outweighs the need for the programming that the Freedom offers such as in pocket survival kits, interior lighting for rucks and kit bags, etc. Anywhere that may require a constant on or variable level lighting I prefer the Freedom and in general use it over the other two models.<br /><br />A few details from the manufacturer:<br /><p><span style="font-size: 9pt; font-weight: 700;">The Freedom® Micro is the most advanced easy-to-use micro-light from the leader in Micro-Light technology.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 9pt;">Made in the United States, Photon Micro-Lights are approximately the size and weight as a US quarter. They feature the brightest LEDs in the world and smart-circuitry.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 9pt;">Available in a wide variety of colored LEDs including ultraviolet and infrared. Hands-free clip and quick-release necklace included FREE!</span></p><br /><ul><li><span style="font-size: 9pt;">Smart Circuit Freedom Technology</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 9pt;">Full-range adjustable brightness</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 9pt;">5 Safety Modes</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 9pt;">Replaceable Lithium battery</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 9pt;">Quick release ring</span><strong></strong></li><li><span style="font-size: 9pt;">Visible for over one mile</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 9pt;">24 K gold plated contacts</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 9pt;">Ultra tough case</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 9pt;">Water resistant</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 9pt;">Interactive packaging<br /></span></li></ul>My take: <br /><br />They make great lights for emergency backups in caving and rescue work where the weight and bulk are not noticed until needed, or as an EDC (Every Day Carry) item on a keychain to save your tactical flashlight for when high lumen levels are necessary, or in the tactical environment where a super dim or highly adjustable light source is preferable to maintain light discipline/precautions when performing administrative functions.<br /><br />As seen below I keep one on my keychain which comes in quite handy on nearly a daily basis:<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/1BgnCnHcwLW_GSL-IfwOUQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S9-ZeXpFIpI/AAAAAAAAAfk/fuiwaLA3BMU/s400/DSC_2015.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />As well I keep one on a "Contingency Necklace" as a deep fallback during rescue operations or while exploring underground:<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/gdSLkPlc7hs0ZzyZ4zccMw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S9-ZdTeeJUI/AAAAAAAAAfg/zLNJ0QzPboA/s400/DSC_1998.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />Two very different uses where these lights shine, literally and figuratively, and the list of uses just keeps on going. I keep these things stashed all over the place and must have literally dozens scattered around the globe in gear piles. They are very durable, water resistant within reason and even if they do go in the drink for an extended period they will continue to run but should be cleaned to prevent battery corrosion from damaging the internals. All in all a great little accessory for the professional adventurer.<br /><br />So if you are looking for a great little back up to your high powered rescue headlamp or your super lumen tactical light consider the Photon Microlights and particularly the Photon Freedom Microlight, available in numerous colors including infrared.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=LRI-PHOTON-FRE">LRI Photon Freedom Microlight in white, red, blue, and green at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=LRI-PHOTON-FRE-IR">LRI Photon Freedom Microlight in infrared at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br />Until next time, stay sharp, stay safe, and have fun out there...<br /><br />Mike<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-4142168162327742925?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-26402176790720905422010-04-23T22:15:00.000-07:002010-04-24T01:18:18.442-07:00This week we have a new Austere Provisions Company Exclusive product to announce as well as some new off the shelf items.<br /><br />Onto the exclusive...<br /><br />The Austere Provisions Company 72 Hour Individual Sick Call Kit.<br /><br />I started this project last year and had moved it to the back burner due to a couple other projects I am working on until I got an email from a good friend traveling in Europe. The jist of the email was that he had woken up after a night of socializing with some industry friends and colleagues to much more than a relatively minor hangover. Symptoms included fever, chills, fatigue, and cough among others. My buddy's complaint was that while he had a fairly comprehensive individual trauma kit in his luggage he did not have any basic meds to control symptoms or treat everyday issues such as a cold, headache, congestion, stomach upset, or any other of a host of issues that are common when traveling or in the field.<br /><br />Compounding this was the fact that he was traveling and while he had been to this European city numerous times before he did not know of a local pharmacy to source meds from and wasnt in much of a condition to be going out anyway, turns out it was snowing outside as he was having his own personal summer courtesy of his immune system inside.<br /><br />In the end, after a number of conversations I was convinced that this kit needed to be on the shelf and available to active travelers and adventurers today and not sitting on the back burner. Now some of you may be thinking to yourself: "self, havent these kits been made by numerous others before, why does this guy think his is so special?" Well, what I think makes this kit superior is that each content and the kit itself is the distillation of the most useful meds on the market packaged in a durable and water safe package with a large enough quantity of items to cover most issues for a solid 3 days.<br /><br />The content list comes from the most common meds used during numerous deployments around the globe as well as carried in my personal kit. Each med is individually packaged for easy dosing and organization. So what is in this thing? Contents as follows:<br /><br />-Acetaminophen 500mg 12 Packets of 2<br />-Aspirin 325mg 18 Packets of 2<br />-Ibuprofen 200mg 18 Packets of 2<br />-Phenylephrene HCL 5mg 18 Packets of 2<br />-Diphenhydramine 25mg 18 Packets of 1<br />-Loratadine 10mg 3 Packets of 1<br />-Alamag Plus 24 Packets of 2<br />-Loperamide HCL 2mg 12 Packets of 1<br />-Meclizine Hydrochloride 25mg 3 Packets of 1<br />-Cold Relief Multi-Component Tablet 12 Packets of 2<br />-Zantac 75 6 Packets of 1<br />-NoDoz 200mg 9 Packets of 2<br />-Talnaftate 1% 12 Packets of cream<br />-Vitalyte Electrolyte Replacement Solution (Assorted Flavors) 6 Stick Packs<br /><br />All that in a 12x12 LOKSAK bag leaving plenty of space for the end user to add personally prescribed meds or extras for extended trips. As the kit comes when ordered the bag is roughly half full and folds to 6x12, easily fitting in an assault pack, carry on, or brief case.<br /><br />A few quick pics:<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/icDy0VbvSfQpe2T8u4i7vQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S9JmGyGwjII/AAAAAAAAAeg/4Zk0GiA5B7c/s400/DSC_1970.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/QJj9TX4lvepmjUFRdUZ8KQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S9JmHVOe8OI/AAAAAAAAAek/G8JCLC2Z7YI/s400/DSC_1984.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />So if you are looking for a good sick call kit to keep you in tip top shape no matter where your travels take you consider the Austere Provisions Company 72 Hour Individual Sick Call Kit<br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=APC-72SC&amp;Click=26">72 Hour Individual Sick Call Kit available exclusively at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br />A few honorable mentions added this week:<br /><br />We are very happy to add Littmann Stethoscopes to our line up. While we feel that all of Littmann's products are top of the line we have been particularly happy with the Classic II SE. I personally carried one of these for a number of years and continue to keep it in a sick call diagnostic bag. The Classic II SE combines a capable design with a compact and lightweight footprint. And of course we had to go with the Black Edition so it is tacticool in that late 80's early 90's way.<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/6TyX9qT77JRL0tZfApR_wA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S9JkUhTTreI/AAAAAAAAAd8/jUZYkJxQ5mo/s400/DSC_1859.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=LTT-2SE-BE&amp;Click=26"><br />Littmann Classic II SE Black Edition available at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br />Next up is a tool I have been carrying for quite some time in my diagnostic kit which serves a number of purposes including basic auditory tests, but more useful in the field is the ability to help identify long bone fractures. If a question mark just popped into your head take a minute and do an internet search for "tuning fork" and "fracture diagnosis" and you will find a myriad of sources about the accuracy of such a technique as well as various ways to perform this test. Through my research and use 128mhz seems to be the most accurate and multipurpose.<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/DF3qKASKlerax6Zu1S7XTQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S9JkVczIRaI/AAAAAAAAAeI/CvpTMczuKLs/s400/DSC_1905.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=PM-128TF&amp;Click=26">128 mhz Tuning For now available at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br />Next up is a very common tool, EMS Shears. We are currently offering three options in our line of EMS Shears. Two sizes in an all black, fluoride coated model and a single size in the standard stainless steel version trusted for years.<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/lPWa1KEhyPadr_UiBq1Opg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S9JkU0gdeWI/AAAAAAAAAeA/vy6psSko1us/s400/DSC_1873.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></table><br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=PM-FL-SHEARS&amp;Click=26">Fluoride Coated EMS Shears now available at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/aXqDKFvc-2Dcqbl_3PMz7g?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S9JkVEI2fzI/AAAAAAAAAeE/rzRrQTSmaJI/s400/DSC_1888.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></table><br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=PM-S&amp;Click=26">Stainless EMS Shears now available at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br />Alright, I know we didnt destroy any gear this week but trust me when I say that each item we have featured in this post is a tried and true item that I keep in my own gear bag. That includes the Sick Call Kit which I happen to build a couple for myself to stash in various locations.<br /><br />That is all for this week, I look forward to bringing you more next week. Until then, stay sharp and stay safe.<br /><br />Mike<br /><br />P.S. I wanted to take a minute and apologize for no post last week. My wife and I headed out to do a little camping on Thursday and came back on Friday to find a flooded house due to a broken water line in our kitchen. We have spent much of the week cleaning and coordinating with insurance and construction resources. Thanks to everyone who has offered assistance, it is much appreciated.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-2640217679072090542?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-10636889432926560002010-04-09T21:05:00.000-07:002010-04-09T21:40:54.729-07:00We got a solution...<br /><br />We have been carrying hemostatic agents for some time now but we have a few adjustments to make to our line up. Recently Z-Medica, the parent company of QuikClot, decided to release the same packaging and design features previously only available to the military to the general public. What am I talking about? The QuikClot Gauze originally came as a rolled gauze in a pillow pack. The military made a request that it be produced in a folded format for ease of packing in to a wound, with an x-ray detectable marker to ease identification of foreign materials in large wounds, and vacuum sealed to reduce bulk. Initially all attempts to obtain this for the retail market were met with the response of "this is only for official military use". I am not sure if there was some sort of contractual agreement where X number of units must be delivered before being released or what but recently we were notified by our distributor that this new form was now available to us. <br /><br />This is good for you in two ways:<br /><br />1. You can now get the new packaging which saves some space particularly in reducing the bulk of individual medical kits and the like.<br />2. We are running a clearance sale on the remaining stock of the original pillow packaging.<br /><br />As well as the change in packaging to the QuikClot Gauze we were notified that the QuickClot ACS is no longer being supported and we will no longer be able to source it. In order to help anyone who particularly likes the QuikClot ACS pick up a few extras or to add hemostatics on the cheap we will also be running a clearance sale on the remaining stock of QuikClot ACS.<br /><br />Here's the links:<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/i9WGMAGlhMYXcGCRra_1kw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S2NiJzq3poI/AAAAAAAAAOM/RzslnvOvZO8/s400/DSC_0532.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></table><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=QC-GAUZE">QuikClot Gauze original packaging on clearance at Austere Provisions Company for $35.00/ea<br /></a><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/i2PHuEu-TNwSpFR0M92tcw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S2NiKQDGZBI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/P4LUq5J8KXo/s400/DSC_0554.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></table><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=QC-ACS">QuikClot ACS on clearance at Austere Provisions Company for $26.00/ea</a><br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/I6-PTTLOgSCuFrSCQn21Eg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S6U48W5xXiI/AAAAAAAAAZU/1jzSZF1BI2Y/s400/DSC_1650.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></table><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=QC-GAUZE2">QuikClot Gauze new packaging (shown on left) now available at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br />So, this weeks product of the weeks comes with a little sale that we hope you will take advantage of. I know its no cool test or video but it is an important piece of gear we believe in. <br /><br />Thanks and we will see you next week, stay sharp,<br /><br />Mike<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-1063688943292656000?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-49656819046564983692010-04-04T20:00:00.001-07:002010-04-04T21:06:12.542-07:00Before I kick off this weeks review I want to wish everyone a Happy Easter. It is days like today that I like to stop and reflect on all that we have and all that has been sacrificed by others for us. As well, I would like to take a moment to say thanks to those serving both at home and abroad to make sure that we at home are safe. <br /><br />This week has been another busy week of working on projects and creating unique solutions for our customers. Look some more APC exclusives in the near future. As well as keeping busy at work, I was happy to welcome my lovely wife home from her 30 day medical rotation in Honduras and get her feedback on "all that stuff you made me pack". After a week of relaxation I convinced her and some friends to head out for some camping as the weather was just perfect for some time outdoors and so we packed up and headed out. This leads us to this weeks product of the week...<br /><br />The UCO Candle Lantern: <br /><br />I have been using these for years with great success. They provide a nice warm light source in a compact package. In the picture shown below you will see my wonderful hot pink model which I picked up in 1993 and have been using since. I would like to say that my memory is good enough to remember when I picked it up but I was lucky enough that it still has a sticker on it where it was produced for a major outdoors chain anniversary celebration.<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/Y6XWse_PRP-ZiHjCxoxkXg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S7lSKjgjyyI/AAAAAAAAAbw/mqvWLpvaKe0/s400/DSC_1753.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />A little hard info on this things from the manufacturer:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(153, 153, 153);font-size:85%;" >The classic, long-burning collapsible candle lantern that has provided warm, natural light to thousands of outdoor enthusiasts since 1982, the <strong>Original Candle Lantern</strong> is still our most popular model. Lightweight and compact, the patented Candle Lantern provides 9 hours of warm light from a single candle. It is perfectly suited to backpacking, mountaineering, snow camping and similar outdoor pursuits and simple to maintain and operate. Our unique, spring loaded candle tube insures a constant flame height and minimal wax spillage. This lantern works exceptionally well inside a tent on winter hiking and camping trips.</span> <p style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(153, 153, 153);"><span style="font-size:85%;">Now lighting the candle lantern is easier than ever with our easy lighting system. The chimney quickly and easily slides down inside the lantern to give the user instant access to the candle area. Once lit, the chimney slides back up into its original position - providing wind protection for the candle flame. We sell it by itself or in a value pack. <b>Value Pack:</b> Includes the Original candle lantern, 3 candles, and a fleece bag. </span></p> <p style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(153, 153, 153);"><span style="font-size:85%;">The Original UCO Candle Lantern has these additional features:</span></p> <ul style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(153, 153, 153);"><li> <span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>Collapsible</strong> - our patented design allows the lantern to telescope closed, protecting the glass chimney while traveling or hiking.</span></li><li> <span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>Convenient Handle</strong> - Stainless steel handle makes the Candle Lantern easy to hang and carry.</span></li><li> <span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>Constant Flame Height</strong> - our unique spring loaded candle tube keeps the flame height constant while a small viewing window shows how much candle remains. Each candle burns for up to 9 hours.</span></li><li> <span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>Economical</strong> - the Candle Lantern is affordable to purchase and economical to use. Other lanterns can cost up to $2.00 per hour to operate, the Candle Lantern costs only about 9 cents per hour.</span></li><li><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>Efficient</strong> - lightweight aluminum or brass frame holds the glass chimney securely in place, creating a windproof environment for the flame. </span></li><li> <span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>Safe</strong> - No combustible fuels, no complicated starting procedures.</span></li><li> <span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>Reliable</strong> - no batteries to fail and replace, no mantles or bulbs to break.</span></li><li><span style="font-size:85%;"> Environmentally Friendly - no batteries or fuel cartridges to dispose.</span></li><li> <span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>Lifetime Parts Guarantee</strong> - see below</span></li><li> <span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>Made in U.S.A.</strong> with top quality materials and workmanship.</span></li></ul>A little info from my use:<br /><br />As I mentioned before I have been carrying and using these for years and for a number of good reasons. They are fairly durable considering they do contain a glass globe, I have yet to have to replace a globe in any of the ones I have used including the "pinky" from 1993. Keeping them in the case and careful packing during travel helps with this. Outside of durability the actual function of the lantern is of course primarily light and these lanterns provide a nice comfortable and quiet light. If you need something brighter you may consider a fuel or electric lantern but you will be trading off the quiet (liquid and compressed gas lanterns) or the soft comfortable light (electric lanterns), something to think about. Along with offering a soft quiet light these lanterns are a great source of heat if used with care. A perfect example was our trip afield this weekend. I am pretty tolerable of cool temps but even I like to warm up the tent before heading to the sleeping bag on cool and cold nights. One technique I have found useful is to rig up a section or two of 550 cord from loops inside my primary tent so that I can hang one or more of these lanterns inside and keep them a safe distance from the tent and occupants during use. This weekend I set this up while we were bedding down for the evening and was nice and warm even in a light summerweight bag with outside temps in the mid to high 40s and a pretty solid breeze.<br /><br />One other place I have used this concept successfully has been in caving. It is quite common to get quite cool when underground, particularly when wet. On a number of occasions I have used one or two candles under an improvised shelter (a large trashcan liner) to create a microclimate capable of warming up a cold team mate.<br /><br />NOTE: Caution should be used in both of these techniques as you can very easily burn yourself, your team/tent mate and even light your shelter/tent on fire. Very close attention should be paid to making sure that nothing comes in contact or even close to the heat source.<br /><br />So what about that other item in the picture above? That is the UCO Candlelier which contains 3 of the standard candles for even more light and heat. The Candlelier is a rigid non-collapsing body design which allows you to place a mug on the heatshield to warm liquids. During my testing I was not able to get it water to a rolling boil but it did start bubbling and was more than warm enough be uncomfortable on the fingers or the tongue without letting it cool.<br /><br />So if you need a good source of warm heat in your travels I would encourage you to look at some of the options we have available at Austere Provisions Company:<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/UQZzy6vNjjr_7alvoJoOOQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S7lf0h3Fr-I/AAAAAAAAAb4/jVGYWXqBKbs/s400/DSC_0008.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=UCO-CANDLE-VALU">UCO Candle Lantern Value Pack available at Austere Provisions Company</a><br />Includes a complete lantern with candle installed, 3 replacement candles, and a soft fleece bag.<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/5MR5SFWAEdWn9r1hsYQsKA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S7lf1EtjVCI/AAAAAAAAAb8/Zbhy8f2iVMc/s400/DSC_0048.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=UCO-CANDLELIER-VALU">UCO Candlelier Deluxe Kit available at Austere Provisions Company</a><br />Includes the complete Candlelier with 3 candles installed, 3 replacement candles, and a padded case.<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/CYjciAjTXSMnCeEPHxmeIg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S7lf1lNlDiI/AAAAAAAAAcA/ELAU9-QspYA/s400/DSC_0076.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=UCO-CANDLE-REG">UCO Regular Candle 3 Pack available at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br />That is all for this one, thanks for checking in and have a great week.<br /><br /><br />Stay sharp,<br /><br />Mike<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-4965681904656498369?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-83388500236669655242010-03-28T17:54:00.000-07:002010-03-28T19:04:35.065-07:00This weeks product of the week comes to us from Fastfire. If you read last weeks review you may have noted the mention of the Fastfire brand, a division of the SOLKOA company which provides equipment, training, and consulting to the government, military, and private sector. While the core of Fastfire is firestarting products this week we will be looking at the GRIP-S system:<br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/Hk7X36Etg9A0Zuqxa60Q8A?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S6LjsMJHjjI/AAAAAAAAAYY/qlxcAWzzkaY/s400/DSC_1570.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />From the factory the GRIP-S system includes the following:<br /><br />-(2) Universal Handles<br />-(4) Set Screws<br />-(2) Lanyards<br />-(1) 28" Wire Saw<br />-(1) Phillips/Flat Head Screw Bit<br />-(1) Set Screw Adjustment Disc<br /><br />Info from the manufacturer:<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">Solkoa's Grip-S™ (Grip-Survival) are a pair of universal handles capable of holding a multitude of useful tools needed for field expedient improvisation beyond the capabilities of today's domestic-use multi-tools. Designed for ultimate adaptability, durability and simplicity, Grip-S™ can hold any of the standard flexible wire saws, any universal shank saw blades (increasing your capability to cut and fabricate beyond wood including dense plastics, various metals, and even masonry and stone), and any round or hexagonal tools up to a quarter inch in diameter (including standard ¼" hex bits, metal files, drill bits, awls, etc.).</span><br /><br />Info from use:<br /><br />When I first found out about this product last year I was really excited about the possibilities of where it could be put into use. As someone who has used tons of survival gear and continue to try new stuff out I have used numerous 'bargain bin' wire saws and they have always come up short. The GRIP-S alone as a wire saw works like a dream however when you look at everything else that it is capable of you begin to see it as the latest "multi-tool" only limited by your imagination.<br /><br />Quick vid of the wire saw in use against 9" of finished hardwood:<br /><br /><object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/M11C72LeQ2w&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/M11C72LeQ2w&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="385" width="480"></embed></object><br /><br />While I initially looked at the system strictly from a survival perspective for use in shelter construction or anywhere else you may need to cut materials in a survival situation. However looking at other applications where you may need to use any of the accessories that the GRIP-S handles can harness the uses are endless. Need to drill whole? Drop a drill bit in the handles. Need to cut metal or plastics? Drop a bimetal or application specific recip saw blade and go to town. Need to reshape a material? Drop a file or rasp in. Any bit that will fit in a 1/4" chuck will fit in the GRIP-S handles.<br /><br />A few examples:<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/WRqP5m4dj2dL3bKI8A1LIA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S6g3UizynmI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/kRtGQPtA8mE/s400/DSC_1681.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The flat/philips bit included in the kit<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/4tjwDv1dBJpBDNj46-sKOw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S6g3U4dRT7I/AAAAAAAAAZ4/9hm5sTvu6No/s400/DSC_1693.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Files of various sizes (not included)<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/tb6z65sg1zNOHBKv7szZwA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S6g3VsUA_LI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/VdsPyNTzD3E/s400/DSC_1707.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Drill bits up to 1/4" (not included)<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/La8ah-ASFoBpFwsUBDJhzw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S6g3V59Sg2I/AAAAAAAAAaA/wIuG2oB0Olo/s400/DSC_1721.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Recip Saw Blade (not included). I prefer the Lenox Fire &amp; Rescue as a good general purpose blade.<br /><br />So if you need a capable wire saw and foundation for a mission specific tool kit I would encourage you to look into the Fastfire GRIP-S.<br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=FF-GRIPS"><br />Fastfire GRIP-S kit available at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br />Until next week, stay sharp and keep your powder dry...<br /><br />Mike<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-8338850023666965524?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-60809489655361535272010-03-20T19:52:00.000-07:002010-03-20T21:12:57.067-07:00Last week we looked at the Swedish Firesteel from Light My Fire USA, this week we will be looking at another quality option in the area of fire starting gear: The Fastfire Fire Starting Kit and Firestriker MAXX.<br /><br />A little background, Fastfire is a brand under the SOLKOA Company. SOLKOA designs and builds professional level SERE equipment the military, government, and private sectors. One of the key products of the Fastfire line is Fastfire cubes. Not being a chemist, I have no idea what they are made of but they offer some very attractive attributes that are not seen in most solid fuel cubes.<br /><br />From the manufacturer, Fastfire cubes:<br /><br />Fastfire:<br />• Generates a sustained, 1300°F flame in just seconds<br />• Burns even when WET!<br />• Wind resistant<br />• Smokeless and odorless<br />• Ignites easily from a spark or any flame<br />• Very low flashpoint (140°F)<br />• Lights under conditions where other tinders would fail<br />• Each tinder is packaged using a rugged, high quality foil that guarantees long shelf-life and durability.<br />• Solid cubes don’t leak, spill or foul up your other gear<br />• Left whole, one cube will burn vigorously for 10 - 12 minutes<br />• If divided into eighths, eight separate fires may be generated, with each tinder piece burning 2 - 3 minutes each<br />• Once extinguished, Fastfire material cools to the touch within seconds<br /><br />From my testing:<br /><br />Fastfire cubes have a texture and consistency similar almost to a styrofoam material although slightly different. The surfaces, even when cut or abraded are water resistant and do not become waterlogged. This also allows you to cut a single cube into numerous smaller pieces for starting multiple fires or controlling the size and strength of fire from the cube. As mentioned in the specs, Fastfire cubes light easily with a spark. When I first saw this product demonstrated the user abraded the top of the cube and directly lit the cube. Through my toying with the product I found that using a tool to "drill out" the center of the cube creating a sawdust type powder that commonly lights with a single strike from the Fastfire Striker. This also leaves the bulk of the cube to be cut into smaller chunks and added to the fire or saved for later. See video below for demonstration.<br /><br />The other half of the Fastfire Fire Starter Kit: The Fastfire Striker.<br /><br />From the manufacturer:<br /><ul><li>3" ferrocerium rod attached to a 3" hacksaw blade</li><li>Weighs only 1oz!</li><li>No breaking parts (plastic) or failure points (springs that can break)</li></ul> From my testing:<br /><br />The Fastfire Striker puts out ample sparks and is a very simplistic design consisting of the ferro rod and hacksaw blade. Although it is technically a hack saw blade, this is no chunk or fragment of your average bimetal blade that you find at a big box store but appears to be a high quality and purpose designed piece of gear selected by Fastfire. Even after extensive testing the hacksaw blade continues to be sharp for secondary use beyond just a striker.<br /><br />The combo:<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/xh8C8ejfvJoNPVbeKC4dig?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S6LjtSbg8gI/AAAAAAAAAYk/5xSKLqDm1Ts/s400/fastfirestarting%20kit.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />In use:<br /><br /><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ZiJrozFMw2Q&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ZiJrozFMw2Q&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br /><br />Next item up...<br /><br />The Fastfire Faststrike MAXX, a beefed up version of the striker included in the fire starter pack. The ferro rod is an extra inch long, totalling 4" with a matching hacksaw blade and an estimated duty life of 10,000+ strikes which by my estimates from using firestarters over the years is a lowball figure. I could easily see it lasting much longer than that.<br /><br />A quick comparison shot (MAXX on top):<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/b7ZUcEDNBWHFVmmcALEbog?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S6LjtoG0FUI/AAAAAAAAAYo/v5pG_qxHMTk/s400/fastfirestriker%20max.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />How to get it:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=FF-FSK">Faststrike Fire Starter Kit available at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br />Includes (4) Fastfire cubes and (1) Fastfire striker.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=FF-RFK">Fastfire Refills Kit available at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br />Includes (8) Fastfire cubes. Use it to stock up with the Fire Starter Kit or couple it with a firesteel you already carry.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=FF-FSM">Fastfire Faststrike MAXX available at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br />Great mainline striker.<br /><br />As a special for intro-ing the Fastfire line we will be tossing a free Fastfire cube in every order placed between now and the end of March to give customers an opportunity to try this stuff out.<br /><br />Enjoy one on us.<br /><br />Be sure to check back next week as we have another product that I am personally very excited about. Until then, stay sharp.<br /><br />Mike<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-6080948965536153527?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-23722351852965230582010-03-14T12:49:00.000-07:002010-03-14T14:00:19.262-07:00It's one of those things that separates us from animals and has allowed us to make major advances throughout history. If you think about it, there are a very small number innovations at the dawn of man that are the foundation for where we are today. Fire is one of those. While that may be cool to think about and ponder the way fire helps us today is to provide heat to keep us warm, provide light, provide smoke (signal, cooking, or bug abatement), and provide you signaling ability. <br /><br />So how do we get this fire started? One of the tools I keep in my survival toolbox is the Light My Fire USA FireSteel. Available in three sizes of rod (actual striker component): Mini with a life of approximately 1,000-1,500 strikes, Scout with a life of approximately 3,000 strikes, and Army with a life of approximately 12,000 strikes. The 12,000 strike rod comes in the Army size with a compact synthetic handle for field use or the Barbeque with a larger wooden handle for home or car camping type use.<br /><br />From the manufacturer (Light My Fire USA):<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">Originally developed for the Swedish Department of Defense, Swedish FireSteel is a flash of genius. Its 3,000°C spark makes fire building easy in any weather, at any altitude. Used by a number of armies around the world, Swedish FireSteel’s dependability has already made it a favorite of survival experts, hunters, fishermen and campers. It has also found its way into cabins and backyards as a fool-proof way to light stoves and gas-barbecues.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);"> * Durable</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);"> * Works when wet</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);"> * Approved by the International Survival Instructors Association</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);"> * Produces a 3000°C (5,500°F) spark</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);"> * Lights campfires, stoves, gas-barbecues</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);"> * Bright spark – can be used as emergency signal </span><br /><br />Things I like about the FireSteel:<br /><br />-Durable and simplistic design<br />-Puts out plenty of spark (good quality rod and well designed striker)<br />-Economical (easy on the wallet to add one to any survival kit)<br /><br />A few pictures of the various sizes we currently carry at Austere Provisions Company:<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/PXvBtwBLkuIhLmGDPh9MBA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S500xjEqJpI/AAAAAAAAAXE/E1SKd1VNMnI/s400/DSC_0256.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />Army Size with striker and lanyard<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/n1m3VxXxBKRgex7JYHKHDw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S500xd_uzWI/AAAAAAAAAXA/PiqvwpU1vVg/s400/DSC_0221.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />Scout Size with striker and lanyard (comes in a variety of colors as shown)<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/gtFfmFAo6DoouqUt_pDVXw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S500ycm-3uI/AAAAAAAAAXM/t2wcHaO0s88/s400/DSC_1525.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />And the Mini with striker (lanyard removed to be carried on keyring as shown below)<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/UX7GQ3QQueiYFGaSsqf9mA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S500x0cBkEI/AAAAAAAAAXI/uopQKna_0Us/s400/DSC_1508.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />After carrying for a little while I did a little hack work to shorten the overall length so that it stood out less (see below):<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/GhGQIfAVQqlUdayUNxQ2HQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S500yrBFerI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/AfzmsmMavww/s400/DSC_1542.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />Here is a quick vid of the FireSteel Scout in use:<br /><br /><object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/YieyTLOqHm0&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/YieyTLOqHm0&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="385" width="480"></embed></object><br /><br />So if you need an effective means for starting a fire that can not be damaged by exposure to the elements take a look at the Light My Fire USA FireSteel in any size available now at Austere Provisions Company.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=LMF-FS-Mini&amp;Click=27">Light My Fire USA FireSteel Mini at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=S-FSSC&amp;Click=27">Light My Fire USA FireSteel Scout at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=S-FSAR&amp;Click=27">Light My Fire USA FireSteel Army at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br />We have more Light My Fire USA products on the way and scheduled to deliver this week as well as a few fire related stock from another company. Look for info on those in the near future.<br /><br />Stay sharp out there and have a great week,<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-2372235185296523058?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-69175983569681398512010-03-06T17:04:00.000-08:002010-03-06T18:10:26.261-08:00Something I am pretty serious about is low light gear. Spend enough uninterrupted time underground to kill a fresh set of batteries or in places where your survival rate drops pretty close to zero if you lose your light source and you will be too. Not to mention how helpful lights, headlamps in particular, are in low light environments. One of the first professional level lights I purchased was a Petzl headlamp (halogen twist on/off in the rear of the pile) and I have been using them ever since.<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/ksXsDydryGPGifcIjyavDw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S5L8Il7fcsI/AAAAAAAAAWY/UB818G0HYBU/s400/Petzl%20blog.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />As you can see I have used Petzl products for years and literally have put them in the hands of friends and family members that are deploying or traveling. As I mentioned last week my wife is currently on a medical mission to Central America. One of the pieces of trusted gear she took with her was her Petzl Tikka XP that I purchased for her a number of years ago when they first came out.<br /><br />A relatively new twist on an established item is the TACTIKKA XP ADAPT Kit. This is based off the Tactikka XP which has been around for a number of years now (two gray lights, right front of picture). This kit includes the base light in black with a subdued headstrap and stabilizer strap (for rigorous activities), webbing/cloth clip, helmet/hard surface mount, filter set (red, blue, green), and a set of batteries. This kit allows the user to run this light in a traditional manner as a head lamp, attached to web gear or vests, or attached to a helmet (tactical or rescue).<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/LjijCDafufKJ_sY_5wF_mA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S5MExdRfbTI/AAAAAAAAAWg/rlidix64Fa0/s400/859612.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />We are happy to offer the TACTIKKA XP ADAPT Kit, in stock now. Now some of you may be saying to yourself "self, this guy just did a review a few weeks ago on Princeton Tec lights and recommended those, what the deuce?" Well the answer is, I have complete faith in the lights that I recommend from both Petzl and Princeton Tec and good design and durability are not exclusive to one model or brand. After all, variety is the spice of life. You will be well served by any of the lights we carry for years to come.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=PTZL-TTXP-AD&amp;Click=24">Petzl TACTIKKA XP ADAPT available at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br />Alright, 'till next week. Stay sharp and stay safe.<br /><br /><br />Mike<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-6917598356968139851?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-18875171453751444892010-02-28T21:30:00.000-08:002010-02-28T22:06:01.510-08:00This week has been a big week here at Austere Provisions Company. In addition to regular duties of fulfilling orders and working on new projects this week was spent helping a team member (my wife) pack for a medical rotation to Central America. As many have heard me say in the past, we only carry gear that I would put in the hands of a family member, close friend, or team mate and it is no slogan or pitch. Much of the gear stuffed in those duffel bags that went out the door today are items we offer on the website and personally vouch for to our customers. <br /><br />Some of the items headed south:<br /><br />-APC Survival Kit<br />-Light My Fire USA strikers and matches<br />-Gerber Mini Multitools (will be up on the site soon)<br />-LRI/Photon Coin lights<br />-Klean Kanteen<br />-Petzl headlamps (also up soon)<br /><br /><br />Some brands that we recommend that are not currently offered (working on them but no visibility):<br /><br />-MSR MIOX water purifier<br />-Littman Stethoscopes<br />-Corpsman EENT Kit<br />-Benchmade Knives<br /><br /><br />And a few items we will keep quiet for the sake of operational security.<br /><br />We have a couple new products that will be up in the coming week including further offerings from QuikClot and Tac Med Solutions. Another order from LDI is on the way to round out the line of OV-2 lights. As well, another run of APC-LMS Comprehensive Trauma Kits will be built this week with extras going on the shelf.<br /><br />Anyway, time to get some rest, got another big week coming up.<br /><br />Stay sharp out there...<br /><br />Mike<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-1887517145375144489?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-60031166349621059852010-02-20T19:50:00.000-08:002010-02-20T20:34:12.957-08:00This weeks product is another one of those pieces of gear that is built from the ground up with user feedback in mind: The H&amp;H Silver H Bandage.<br /><br />After fielding of the first Cinchtight bandages from H&amp;H users requested a beefier "hook" for applying compression. Out of that feedback came the original H bandage with the heavy duty H hook with heavy duty attachment to the bandage itself. Soon after the fielding of the H bandage a special request came into H&amp;H for a bandage that could be used in truly remote environments where evacuation may be limited or delayed and infection would be a major concern. While infection is always a concern, some environments and missions present special concerns where extra effort must be taken to reduce morbidity and mortality due to infection. H&amp;H's response, integration of a "totally antimicrobial silver mesh sheet" into the H Bandage.<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/XAXzQxS-PfPUNYNPPMjhGw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S4Cyzj9LeOI/AAAAAAAAAVY/MYT-3-nkyUQ/s400/DSC_1361.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />The Silver H Bandage is packaged flat to allow rapid identification and prevent confusion with the standard H Bandage, as shown in the picture.<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/Co01M01gMeRhf3XUE2MDbQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S4Cy0E3O4eI/AAAAAAAAAVc/QczaQGjLeXg/s400/DSC_1343.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />As shown in the picture above, you can see the 7"x9" Silverlon layer over the actual pad of the bandage. Application requires no change in training for use of bandage and only a change in selecting whether the Silver H is appropriate for your mission. As well, while the Silver H is slightly more expensive, it is more economical than purchasing separate Silverlon dressings for use with a standard H Bandage. Comparison: A 4"x4" Silverlon Dressing can cost as much as $10, when coupled with a standard H Bandage from Austere Provisions Company you are looking at a total of $18 for a smaller Silverlon bandage and integration of an extra step in application.<br /><br />So, if you are planning for a mission where you expect a particularly dirty environment or extended evacuation times you may want to consider integration of The Silver H Bandage from H&amp;H Associates.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=HH-SHB&amp;Click=31">Silver H Bandage now available at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br /><br />Have a good week...<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-6003116634962105985?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-82105310984994518312010-02-12T19:52:00.000-08:002010-02-12T21:39:46.918-08:00Introducing the latest and greatest from Laser Devices Inc., The Operative OV-2 Weaponlight:<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/truDMXjIcgR6SO0IaXTX2w?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S3YmPKvNMtI/AAAAAAAAASk/gNzaa1b1ZeU/s400/DSC_0986.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />This is a light system that we at Austere Provisions Company are very excited to be offering. The OV-2 is the culmination of a significant amount of user feed back to create a lightweight, low profile, and multi-mission capable weapon light.<br /><br />From LDI:<br /><br />The OV-2 carbine lighting system has a modular design to meet the wide variety of today's battlefield needs. Interchangeable On/Off/Momentary push button or remote cable pressure pad switching options, and the low profile MIL-SPEC-1913 offest mount provide flexibility in mounting and activation options. The OV-2 also integrates seamlessly with the DBAL-Ac or the ITAL-A &amp; OTAL-A visible models using the optional dual remote cable switch. The OV-1 and OV-2 are available with either an incadescent lamp or a high intensity LED.<br /><br />OV-2 Features:<br />-Rugged aerospace aluminum, MIL-SPEC Type III hardcoat anodized<br />-Choice of Incandescent or LED<br /> *Shock absorbing incadescent lamp generates 95 lumens of bright white light<br /> *recoil-resistant LEDs product 150 lumens of intense white light<br />-Deeply knurled non-slip grip<br />-Meets MIL_STD-810G for adverse environmental conditions<br /> -Optional tip-off filters available in blue, red, and green. Infrared filters available for incadescent lights only.<br />-Manufactured in the U.S.A.!!!<br /><br />What do we like about this light? This light was designed from the ground up to be compact and make use of every grain of metal, glass, and plastic that goes into it's production. The heavy knurling and deep milling reduces overall weight while increasing gripping ability and efficiently shedding heat produced by the bright LED or Incadescent light module, all of this is accomplished while creating a super rugged body in a small package. A small enough package that it can be squeezed between rails instead of sticking off them like a sore thumb. Now some may say, this light isnt all that small whats the big deal? No other light currently on the market in this size offers the level of user adjustment as this light. This begins with mounting system:<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/X72163E4c0-h6Dxtmx0gdg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S3YfBx_RebI/AAAAAAAAASI/qzBuSDo9Jh0/s400/DSC_0755.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />This mount, as you can see, is offset allowing the light to be tucked between rails and can be oriented so that the light sits left or right and high or low, whichever the user desires. Why is this a big deal? When installed the OV-2 adds no more than half of an inch of overall width whereas comparable lights add as much as 1.5" to width because they are mounted directly off the rail. This may not seem like much until you are moving through a concrete overwatch tower, your local mobile home turned meth lab, or a cave in some far and away land inhabited by bearded bad guys. At that point anything you can do to reduce your profile, streamline your gear, and move faster and quieter is a good thing.<br /><br />In addition to being low profile and streamlined, the factory mount puts the OV-2 in a perfect position for use with laser aiming units as you can see below:<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/9Vcg_OExn5Qb3vLv08TwZA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S3YfBYi_SVI/AAAAAAAAASE/Cvm0Q3vxokI/s400/DSC_0654.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />As you can see the light is mounted between the 12 and 9 o'clock rail does not interfere with the IR illuminator allowing full use of all accessory components.<br /><br />So now that we have mounted the light what can we do with it? The setup I have been running primarily is a standard push button tail cap as you can see here:<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/OQbQ4q7ktye-1HnmNI6M7g?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S3YcRfgcabI/AAAAAAAAARo/V6F-ngN5TTE/s400/DSC_0908.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />This tail cap is one of three currently available and is a solid basic option. The button is click on/off and momentary if you push without clicking. The other option is a standard remote tape switch which is popular but the one that I am really excited about is the dual tail cap. For years I have run lights with dual tail caps. When I transitioned to smaller lights I had to give up my precious dual tail cap because no one has been building a dual tail cap for a compact weapon light. Why am I all torn up about the dual tail cap? I like to set my guns up so that the controls for all weapon lights, lasers, and illuminators to be ambidextrous. This can be done with tape switches alone BUT it takes up precious space on the 12 o'clock rail especially when positioning a tape switch for your light AND laser, not a perfect solution. With the dual tail cap I like to position the light so that when holding the weapon in the traditional form (right hand running the fire control group, left hand supporting) my left hand can activate the push button portion and when I transition to the alternative form (left hand running the FCG, right hand supporting) I can activate a tape switch positioned between the 12 and 3 o'clock rail. This allows me to keep a thumbs forward shooting position on my support hand, and leaves plenty of space to mount the tape switch for my laser on the 12 o'clock keeping it ambidextrous as well. Primary weapon nirvana!<br /><br />Unfortunately I dont have a shot of the dual tail cap to post up. When I first got my mitts on one it still had not been released and I had to give the goodies back at the end of the day. Look for pics soon as we just order them.<br /><br />So what do we have to offer on the shelves?<br /><br />Currently we have the following in stock ready to ship:<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/1qrdt6ur5VUPRlALBLjpFQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S3IMSrhKBBI/AAAAAAAAAP4/6uSQ1CBOa9A/s400/DSC_0663.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></table><br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=LDI-OV-2L-1">OV-2 LED package 1 at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/AuBUkZPFZBubeYe24eSlrA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S3IMTNquj0I/AAAAAAAAAP8/Lf-WqsSVH7A/s400/DSC_0678.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></table><br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=LDI-OV-2L-3">OV-2 LED package 3 at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/wedZA-DP3nOccDqXWjBExA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S3IMThDmPCI/AAAAAAAAAQA/jkU4X6BNNJU/s400/DSC_0693.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></table><br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=LDI-OV-2L-5">OV-2 LED package 5 at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br />And what do we have on order:<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/6avhfFbmZctc_n9w92xSUQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S3IMUTXHiII/AAAAAAAAAQI/AF5zscnhjGo/s400/DSC_0726.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></table><br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=LDI-OV-2L-2">OV-2 LED package 2 at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/8R5VycsJowZvXvF_giyAzg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S3IMUCV_pTI/AAAAAAAAAQE/KL60fXYxq28/s400/DSC_0711.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></table><br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=LDI-OV-2L-4">OV-2 LED package 4 at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=LDI-OV-2L-6">OV-2 LED package 6 at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=LDI-OV-2L-7">OV-2 LED package 7 at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br />In addition we will be adding individual components to allow you to build your own package should one of the predesigned ones not meet your needs.<br /><br />As of last check Austere Provisions Company was the sole dealer of the OV-2 line which we are very proud of. We fully support the OV-2 line and offer full LE/MIL pricing support for all customers who can provide proof of affiliation with an LE/MIL/EMS/FD agency, unit, or department. Thanks for your service. In order to get the adjusted pricing for public servants please either email us at sales@austereprovisions.com either for individual package pricing or you can register at our site and notify us at sales@austere provisions.com with your login ID and we will give you access to the LE pricing for all packages and components.<br /><br />Until next week, have a great weekend.<br /><br />Mike<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-8210531098499451831?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-78149259756906701872010-01-29T22:29:00.000-08:002010-01-29T23:15:11.423-08:00Not a huge review today but a strong introduction for a new section of products. After working out the details we have added hemostatic agents to our medical line up. We have QuikClot products (ACS+ and Combat Gauze) on the shelf as of today and Celox Products (Celox-A and Celox Gauze) enroute with an expected arrival of early next week.<br /><br />Hemostatic agents are not a new concept. Throughout history different substances have been used to encourage clotting in moderate to severe hemorrhaging, including pepper, salt, powdered liver, and just about anything else you can imagine under the sun. The first hemostatic agent I carried was horse liver that had been ground up and packaged in an aerosol can, marketed in Greece and significantly less expensive than the options available at the time. While it worked fairly well it was difficult to apply to deep wounds and wasnt easy to pack due to the size. The most popular option at the time was the original formula of QuikClot which as many know had a reputation for being quite hot when it came into contact with liquids, even to the point of causing 2nd degree burns in patients. This effect can be reduced by integrating a few steps into the application process although that is basically unnecessary due to the development of so-called cool formulation which are available from a number of companies. These new cool formulation hemostatic agents are a significant step forward, providing excellent hemostatic effect with minimal side effects and easier application through a move from granular powder type form to sponges, gauze, and even a syringe type delivery device (Celox-A) allowing you to get the agent into the base of the wound.<br /><br />While hemostatics should not be considered a panacea for trauma patients or a replacement for effective training and conventional techniques for stopping moderate to severe hemorrhage they are an excellent tool to add to your tool box, aid bag, personal med kit, or any other med setup. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=QC-GAUZE">QuikClot Combat Gauze available at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=QC-ACS">QuikClot ACS available at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br />In other news, this upcoming week we will be closed from Tuesday the 2nd until the morning of Monday January 8th. I will be out of the office getting the first phase of my 6 million dollar man transformation done (translation: orthopedic surgery). You will still be able to place an order but it will not ship until Monday. <br /><br />Any orders placed by midnight on Monday will be shipped prior to closing for the week, all other orders will ship the following Monday. I expect to be available for email late in the week if you have questions or need assistance. <br /><br />I would also like to take a moment and say thanks to all my friends and family for the support during this down time and while it is not the most convenient time for this break it is necessary. As well I would like to thank all of my customers who have helped to kick this business off.<br /><br />Thanks Everyone,<br /><br />Mike<br /><br /><br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-7814925975690670187?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-72150638502006865422010-01-24T19:49:00.000-08:002010-01-24T21:08:17.220-08:00Got back this evening and wanted to do a weekly release. Due to SHOT Show we will not have a specific product of the week but instead discuss some of the upcoming additions the gear line up that came out of meetings at the show. <br /><br />Going into SHOT Show I had quite a few meetings with manufacturers to setup accounts, preview new gear, provide feedback on current production, or to con them into building the gear the way we at APC want it. In the never ending pursuit of finding tougher, lighter, faster, more economical, and whenever possible American Made I stayed busy and found quite a few exciting new products. I dont want to give away too many secrets before final discussions are worked out and products are on the shelf but we are looking to add some awesome new gear for keeping gear dry and protected from the elements, professional grade survival and signaling equipment, gear for going on rope in the recreation and tactical environment, numerous new low light options including a weapon light with options that I feel like came from someone reading my mind (look for a review shortly, working on it now, followed by product on the shelf), and much much more. I am currently working on fleshing out some prototypes for new concept gear ranging from hardware to tactical nylon so keep an eye out for those. <br /><br />In addition to all the new gear scoped out at SHOT a number of items are on order or have arrived while at the show including Vitalyte oral rehydration products in individual packets and liter packs which are in stock as well as the H&amp;H TK-4L in bound now. Look for these to be up shortly.<br /><br />As for the Austere Provisions Company kit naming competition, the name has been selected and the lawyers are doing what they do to confirm due diligence and make sure all is clear before release. Sorry for delay, a certain someone is still getting a freebie so no worries there.<br /><br />That is all for today, check back next week for an awesome new product that I am very excited to offer.<br /><br />Mike<br /><br />OUT<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-7215063850200686542?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-60353003072381572652010-01-15T09:54:00.000-08:002010-01-15T11:00:20.004-08:00To those who have smelled blood in the air in any substantial quantity will always recognize it. It smells like iron, in fact I have been caving before in some areas where iron content in the water was high and once I smelled it I thought to myself that someone must be bleeding. If you spend enough time putting yourself in rigorous situations you will either be injured or present for someone else's opportunity. Whether it be travel, training, deployments, or day to day life you have a very good chance of being exposed to a situation where it is good to have a minimal amount of medical gear to compliment medical knowledge. For this reason one of the very first products on the shelves of Austere Provisions Company was The Austere Provisions Company Basic Blow Out Kit. While the market seems to have been flooded with everyone's take on the concept there are some very good options and we feel that we supply one of the better kits at a reasonable price. In that light, it has come to our attention that a company has registered "The Blow-Out Kit" as a trademark phrase and in order to be fair we will be changing the name of our kit. After all we feel that the contents of the kit and company behind it are just as important as the name on the label. So, this weeks product of the week will be a detailed introduction to our basic kit and the kick-off of a competition to rename the kit.<br /><br />Competition outline:<br />Starting at the publication of this blog we will be taking suggestions in the comments section here as well as on the forums that we advertise on (LMS Defense, M4Carbine.net, 5352.org). On Monday the suggestions will be compiled and the new name will be selected. The winner will receive a free kit and some of the new logo gear we have made up for SHOT.<br /><br />Onto the kit:<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/pebcxobeXEVTv12Z5vUHhQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S1C5egig1II/AAAAAAAAAMs/bwb0YZSNgmU/s400/BOK-1-2.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/iam6wxGl1kFcUe1UAhZPFg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S1C5eZn5Z5I/AAAAAAAAAMo/nGkWjuuqAz8/s400/BOK-1.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />Description from the product page:<br /><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">This kit is designed as a well rounded load out for addressing the major causes of preventable death on the battlefield: Major bleeding, Occluded airway, and Tension pneumothorax. The kit contains the following:</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">1-Cinchtight H Bandage</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">1-TK4 Tourniquet</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">1-Primed Gauze</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">1-Combat medic reinforcement tape</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">1-30fr Nasal Airway</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">1-Packet waterbased lubricant</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">1-14gax3.25" decompression needle</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">1-alcohol wipe</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">1-Iodine wipe</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">1-1.5" blue Cyalume light stick</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">2-Large safety pins</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">2-medium nitrile gloves</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">2-large nitrile gloves</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">As with all kits built by APC the contents are the distillation of years of experience, as the old saying goes "the more you know, the less you carry". In holding true to that statement we encourage all purchasers to seek out training in each item or the kit as a whole. Should you be interested in referrals for high quality training relating to this and other kits we build please contact APC by email and we will direct you to a program appropriate to your skill level and background.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">NOTE: A number of the items included in this kit are intended for invasive medical use. When purchasing you assume full liability for your actions.</span><br /><br />Each of these items are selected because they are either very efficient in functioning one specific task or they are easily adapted into other uses. As an example, I want to cover some of the ways each item can be pressed into service outside of it's designed intent:<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">1-Cinchtight H Bandage</span><br />Designed to be used to control mild to moderate hemorrhage through direct application. The elastic bandage works as a good athletic wrap on sprained joints or as an improvised sling. The entire bandage can be used as an improvised wrap tourniquet by simply adjusting placement and wrapping to the point of constriction.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">1-TK4 Tourniquet</span><br />Designed as a full occlusive tourniquet for veinous and arterial blood flow. Can be use as a sling, or compression bandage in conjunction with primed gauze.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">1-Primed Gauze</span><br />Multipurpose by design. Couple with duct tape for small wounds, use as drainage packing in infected wounds, use as padding or to secure splints. Also works as a good wicking material when soaked in a flammable liquid for fire starting.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">1-Combat medic reinforcement tape</span><br />All the uses of duct tape from securing bandages to holding vehicles together.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">1-30fr Nasal Airway</span><br />Easily used as an improvised cric tube.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">1-Packet waterbased lubricant</span><br />Whatever the imagination can lead you to, dont blame us if you get caught putting this stuff on your boss's door knob<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">1-14gax3.25" decompression needle</span><br />Intended for needle decompression of the chest but can be used for removing splinters/foreign bodies, or draining abscess and blisters.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">1-alcohol wipe</span><br />Clean up any surface before sticking a needle through it or help start a fire.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">1-Iodine wipe</span><br />A secondary method for cleaning before dropping a needle in someone OR as an improvised irrigation solution. Fill up the bag the kit comes in, drop the iodine pad in it and you have a quick and easy way to reduce the chances of infection in nasty lacerations, also safe to drink with a suitable dwell time for the source.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">1-1.5" blue Cyalume light stick</span><br />Just big enough to provide a little light to search a body for a wound or mark a downed colleague but not big enough to be a target indicator to the plain eye. Blue shows a better contrast to blood than red or green and is intended to not distract from follow on triage which is generally red, yellow, green, and black.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">2-Large safety pins</span><br />Safety pin mangled tissue out of the way, immediate closure technique, manage an airway, create a sling with a shirt, dig a splinter out, a million and one uses only limited by your imagination.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">2-medium nitrile gloves</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">2-large nitrile gloves</span><br />While one pair of gloves in a standard size works ok for most we want you to be as functional as possible as well as being able to recruit the helping hand of a colleague who may not be as prepared as yourself so we have included two sets of gloves. In addition to the obvious use as a barrier between you and your patient, gloves make an excellent bladder for irrigation, a hasty CPR mask, bit of entertainment for children during a disaster, occlusive dressing, impromptu collection bag, and many more uses. Obviously the usefulness is limited if you only have one pair of gloves, ours are color coded so that you know which size is for you and which is for improvising. Medium Gloves are BLUE and Large Gloves are VIOLET (indicated on label as well).<br /><br /><br />These are in stock now and the name has been temporarily changed to The Austere Provisions Company Basic Medical Kit which will not be the final name obviously so dont submit that. Get your suggestions in and we will make an announcement on Monday January 18th as to who the winner is.<br /><br />On a separate note: Austere Provisions Company will be attending the SHOT Show, we will be closed for shipping orders after 1100 January 17th so that we have time to get all orders submitted up until that time shipped before the show. All orders after that time will be shipped January 25th when we open back up. As thank you for being patient all orders from now until the morning of January 25th will receive 10% off the order with the coupon code: SHOT .<br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=BOK-1&amp;Click=26">Austere Provisions Company Basic Medical Kit</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-6035300307238157265?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-79537321389187580292010-01-08T08:03:00.000-08:002010-01-08T13:18:35.726-08:00translated to "Water is life". As we know, the amount of time we can live without food can be counted in weeks whereas the amount of time we can live without water is counted in days or sometimes hours depending on the environment we are operating in. Because of this, the ability to purify, store, and transport water is paramount to not only survival but maintaining a high level of physical readiness. Since the original lexan and poly bottles were brought onto the market there have been many variations on the theme. Relatively recently a new trend has hit the market, metallic water bottles. With links to the old aluminum Boy Scout canteens some have proven to be solid performers while others have proven to be better suited for the mall or the hands of some teenie bopper.<br /><br />Not the Klean Kanteen. Basic specs for all Klean Kanteens from the manufacturer:<br /><br /><ul style="color: rgb(204, 204, 204);" class="features"><li>BPA-free &amp; eco-friendly</li><li>Made of 18/8, food-grade stainless steel, no liner needed</li><li>Doesn't retain or impart flavors</li><li>Rounded corners are easy to clean with no hard angles where dirt, germs or bacteria can stick</li><li>Stainless steel threads</li></ul><br />The original Klean Kanteens, now called the Classic, were made with a smaller opening as shown in some of the field use pics you will find below. These were and continue to be excellent bottles however Klean Kanteen has just released a new bottle with a larger opening that matches most screw on water filters and other accessories designed for use with standard sized water bottles further increasing the use of a single bottle.<br /><br />This is all fine and good but why do we at APC like Klean Kanteen so much? Durable, high quality products are great but what makes them even better is when they are multipurpose or can be pressed into use outside of the original purpose with limited detriment to long term service life. Along with being durable the Klean Kanteen makes a good vessel for boiling water either for sterilization/pasteurization for drinking or for preparing food, try that with your BPA free poly bottle and let me know how well it turns out. In addition to all this, your Klean Kanteen wont stick out at the gym and you will probably have to keep your teenie bopper niece from trying to nab your "cool water bottle".<br /><br />During a teaching trip earlier this year I took along two Klean Kanteen Classic 40oz bottles to put through their paces.<br /><br />Here is our water source. This trip was during the dry season so many or our normal flowing water points are not usable during this time, this low volume spring fed puddle was our source for water during this FTX.<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/bWfezd7R3p13jPpiGBYn4A?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S0dhdISb__I/AAAAAAAAAH4/yhoQL_fnP7Q/s400/watering%20hole.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />While fairly clean, some care was necessary to reduce large particulate matter and of course we wanted to take steps to kill off as many biological threats as possible. We accomplished this by using the Klean Kanteens as shown below:<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/59wlUyxs6GE4HztsMrm5Fw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S0dhdJCZFmI/AAAAAAAAAH8/JXxaxvza-Oc/s400/kanteen%20in%20fire.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />Now some of you may be wondering, how do we get these things out of the fire since they dont have a handle like a pot or even a mug? I travel with a wool watch cap everywhere I go, which makes a handy pot holder among other things (see pic below). A tip, allow the water to cool for a few minutes before transferring to zip style baggy or your water will end up on the ground and you will have a hole in your bag.<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/FUO4vkUWf8m6aqYLprGvHw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S0dhdWc6NDI/AAAAAAAAAIA/33iwwuQgYRo/s400/kanteen%20to%20baggy.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />This method was used to provide water for the four person instructor cadre throughout a multi-day survival section.<br /><br />The pictures above show the Classic model which is all that was available at the time of this trip, however we recommend the wide mouth version show below. These are produced in 12, 18, 27, 40, and 64oz models, we find that the most useful sizes for day to day use are the 27 and 40oz models.<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/ueIkx3aN3ixK4CjoB0TtGA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S0egHWzHO9I/AAAAAAAAAIg/W0FPAhp3aG8/s400/DSC_0136.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/y1svrzaWWqptnL3x5pxK2g?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S0egINgeznI/AAAAAAAAAIo/hYhYKBQ-FZw/s400/DSC_0168.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/Pdu4T-hePgyxhTNnnw4XJQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/S0egHxUc4qI/AAAAAAAAAIk/3k3ojKXhCKM/s400/DSC_0151.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br /><br />A few notes about using your Klean Kanteen in this manner...<br /><br />From the Klean Kanteen FAQ section--<br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(204, 204, 204);">In a pinch, single-walled Kanteen™ Classic and Wide bottles with the Brushed Stainless finish can be placed on a fire or a stove as long as you take the cap off. Do not do this with a colored bottle, as it will damage the paint.</span><br /><br />While the manufacturer says this should only be done in a pinch we have found no obvious wear and tear on the bottle after numerous uses you may get some staining, soot, or tar that builds up on the bottle. This can be reduced by using the bottle in clean coals or cleaner burning wood, wetter wood will put off more smoke and tar that can accumulate on the bottle. However, if you find that your Klean Kanteen becomes covered with tar or smoke we found that a quick scrub with steel wool, soap, and water removes all tar and returns the bottle to near new status with minimal discoloration.<br /><br />In the consideration of full disclosure, a few other things to mention about these bottles:<br /><br />-They are made of single wall stainless steel and while they may look like the old school coffee thermos they are not insulated, put something hot in this and you will feel it.<br />-The same applies with cold stuff. I have used these a number of times filled with ice water to massage cramped muscles, sprained/strained ankles and knees. Great tool as a number of team mates will tell you.<br /><br /><br />So, to the point, we at Austere Provisions Company really like the products coming out of Klean Kanteen. We like them enough that we carry them in our personal packs and feel comfortable recommending them to our customers for many applications from a go bag, bug out bag, or as an "Every Day Carry" item.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=KLEAN-W-27&amp;Click=26">Klean Kanteen Wide 27oz Bottle at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=KLEAN-W-40&amp;Click=26"><br />Klean Kanteen Wide 40oz Bottle at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-7953732138918758029?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-58277361543276962572010-01-02T19:51:00.000-08:002010-01-02T20:31:49.311-08:00Since our last blog post we have seen the dawn of a new year and we at Austere Provisions Company would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year and healthy and fruitful 2010. Onto the product of the week.<br /><br />Is it sticky?<br /><br />Yeah, it's STICKY. What am I talking about? The Bolin Chest Seal. I get this question a lot and there is some background to it. In 2005 at the Special Operations Medical Association conference, held annually in Tampa, Florida, numerous times it was mentioned by operators that current chest seals were not staying in place when applied to bloody, sweaty, and dirty patients on the current battlefields in Iraq and Afghanistan. When those complaints came out a number of people in the medical industry were listening, one of those people was Bob Harder of H&amp;H Associates. H&amp;H looked at the current options available and hit the drawing board to design a product that would effectively vent air and blood from open chest wounds without clogging or clotting the valve(s) and stay in place during extended field evacuation situations.<br /><br />So what does the solution look like? Like this:<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/efkvHWzM3lnhHUg7e5mVTQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/Sy6lLrg4z-I/AAAAAAAAAGE/q0k4Ng08yaw/s400/DSC_0087.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/ProductReleases?feat=embedwebsite">Product Releases</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />Info from H&amp;H:<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Sucking chest wounds require an emergency first aid solution that is fast, direct, and effective: the Bolin Chest Seal (BCS) is specifically engineered to meet these critical needs. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">The BCS is a sterile occlusive chest wound dressing for treating open pneumothorax and preventing tension pneumothorax that result from gunshots, stab wounds, or other penetrating chest trauma. The patented failure-proof triple-valve design of the BCS allows air and blood to escape while preventing the re-entry of either, thereby eliminating any unwanted gas or liquid exchange at the trauma site.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">The large (6” diameter), rugged polyurethane disc structure of the BCS can cover practically any size chest trauma site. The thickness of the disc prevents any disc wrinkling from occurring during application. In addition, the wound side of the disc is covered with a thick layer of jell-based adhesive, strong enough to not only seal over hair and blood but also flexible enough to be removed and reapplied to the trauma site if required. These critical characteristics of the BCS to prevent the occurrence of tension can be accomplished quickly, directly, and effectively. </span><br /><br />So, back to the original question: Is it sticky enough? Yeah, it is. The "jell-based adhesive" is very similar to an adhesive called Hydrogel which is used by breachers where the charge has to stick, every time no matter what. Hydrogel is purposely designed to stick to irregular surfaces that are wet which is why it was selected for use in the Bolin Chest Seal.<br /><br />Now all this information is great but how do we know if it actually works? The failure of chest seals in the past became enough of an issue that The Naval Medical Research Center decided to test the original Asherman Chest Seal and the Bolin Chest Seal to determine capabilities through live tissue training.<br /><br /><a href="http://gohandh.com/BCS_Performance.PDF">PDF of report HERE</a><br /><br />Quoted Conclusion Paragraph from report:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(204, 204, 204);">"CONCLUSION</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(204, 204, 204);">We have developed a standardized spontaneously breathing open pneumothorax swine model. Device testing in this model relied on hemodynamic changes that were easily monitored. The Asherman and Bolin chest seal valves have similar effectiveness in evacuating intrathoracic air, but the Bolin seal offers superior adhesive properties.</span><span style="color: rgb(192, 192, 192);">"</span><br /><br /><br />If you are looking for a reliable and durable solution for treating open chest wounds you will find a solution in the Bolin Chest Seal. Now available at <a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/?Click=26">Austere Provisions Company</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=BCS01&amp;Click=26">Bolin Chest Seal at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br />Thanks for looking and check back next week. We are expecting some new items this week.<br /><br />Mike<input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-5827736154327696257?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-35250819843414938562009-12-25T20:38:00.000-08:002009-12-25T22:25:57.163-08:00This week we at Austere Provisions Company we would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and very best wishes for a great 2010. Enjoy the time with loved ones if you are home and team mates and comrades if you are deployed or on watch tonight. I would like to extend a personal thanks to all those walking the line tonight, stay sharp and stay safe.<br /><br />By this time next week we will be entering a new year, I would like to take a moment to give you a glance into our plans. Look to Austere Provisions Company for a lineup of well thought out tactical nylon, EDC gear, as well as a number of new kits. In addition to the formation of the APC brand line up, look for the addition of some high quality products from trusted vendors.<br /><br />Until then, Cheers and we'll see you in the field.<br /><br />Mike<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-3525081984341493856?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Michael Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17503153629092157643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-30811436863956789072009-12-18T19:40:00.000-08:002009-12-18T23:25:25.517-08:00Or bring your own. This weeks product of the week is the Princeton Tec Remix headlamp. The Remix combines the reach of a spot LED for distance illumination with the close up capability of three flood LEDs. Couple this with a rugged housing and weather resistant design as well as smart energy saving programming and you have a solid piece of low light gear.<br /><br />From Princeton Tec:<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);font-size:85%;" >The Remix is equipped with an asymmetrical single arm bracket, easily accessible battery door enclosure, and large push button switch. Combine these features with a simple &amp; lightweight design and you have a headlamp built to perform in any environment. Whether your requirements call for long distance spotting, or close range area light, the Remix is up to the task with a combination of a single MAXBRIGH T LED and 3 Ultrabright LEDs. The end result; true versatility in a compact, water resistant, and self-contained package.<br /><br /></span><p style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);"><span class="specsDivSpecHead" style="font-size:85%;">POWER</span><span style="font-size:85%;"> </span><span style="font-size:85%;"> 45 Lumens</span></p> <p style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);"><span class="specsDivSpecHead" style="font-size:85%;">LAMP</span><span style="font-size:85%;"> </span><span style="font-size:85%;"> 3 Ultrabright LEDs,<br /><span class="specsDivSpecHead"> </span> 1 Maxbright LED</span></p> <p style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);"><span class="specsDivSpecHead" style="font-size:85%;">BURN TIME</span><span style="font-size:85%;"> </span><span style="font-size:85%;"> 200 Hours</span></p> <p style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);"><span class="specsDivSpecHead" style="font-size:85%;">BATTERIES</span><span style="font-size:85%;"> </span><span style="font-size:85%;"> 3 AAA</span></p> <p style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);"><span class="specsDivSpecHead" style="font-size:85%;">WEIGHT</span><span style="font-size:85%;"> </span><span style="font-size:85%;"> 83g</span></p><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);font-size:85%;" ><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255); font-weight: bold;">Power Setting</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">/</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0); font-weight: bold;">Reach</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">/</span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">Burn time:</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Maxbright LED High</span>/<span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">40+meters</span>/<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">28 Hours</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Maxbright LED Low</span>/<span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">30 meters focused beam</span>/<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">53 Hours</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">5mm trio LEDs High</span>/<span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">30+ meters diffuse</span>/<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">61 Hours</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">5mm trio LEDs Low</span>/<span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">10-15 meters diffuse</span>/<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">200 Hours</span></span><br /><br />What you get:<br />Headlamp, Strap, Batteries included, Instructions<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/TAQeq961URWFOMF3M2zRpg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/SyxK_Y_mpxI/AAAAAAAAAEs/kDXtkXsmLOY/s400/PTRemix2.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />The housing is well designed for rugged use and attention to detail is not lost at Princeton Ted, even down to the attachment of the light to the head strap or a multitude of other applications if you prefer not to keep your light on your head but need your hands to be free.<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/zFXSRCnEdBxXIza3cm0-_Q?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/SyxK_QctywI/AAAAAAAAAEw/UKp7JzV0O1k/s400/PTremix3.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/ccqhhgmDGdrb85ei2bO_FA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/SyxK_rZeRvI/AAAAAAAAAE4/K4bTDg5O_Ak/s400/PTremix5.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/DjcjQ2yCthA04NgDnecT-A?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/SyxLH2S4thI/AAAAAAAAAE8/Ly1zx-pqBFE/s400/PTremix6.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/IOAHitHEyDhwvFVsPkdi_A?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/SyxLIE-UwGI/AAAAAAAAAFA/b6i4PDybJP4/s400/ptremix7.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />When I started using headlamps there were very few options available on the market. Petzl was the go to brand, and while they still make some excellent headlamps, Princeton Tec has come out with some very innovative designs and from all appearances seems to be integrating a lot of end user feedback into new projects. The Remix is the culmination of much of that feedback and as you can see it is a pretty solid piece of kit.<br /><br />Another item that has been added to the Austere Provisions Company lineup is the Princeton Tec Pilot (shown below). This is a great backup lamp if you are going into an environment where you want multiple sources of light or as a primary where just need a little light for close up work. Designed to be attached to pack straps or headlamp straps this light is a solid performer providing 14 hours of light on a single set of lithium coin batteries. The light attaches to straps via a base which is knotched to allow the light to be directed off center or even removed should you need to hand it off or use it to provide light while changing batteries on your primary.<br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/28KyBz06T6a7OST9W3JJGA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/Syx8HoH5aLI/AAAAAAAAAFI/GSSAhY9hqwQ/s400/PTpilot1.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/RjBQesy7AiXZYSKMXfFNzA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/Syx8IAHPS5I/AAAAAAAAAFM/rRnGcKXxjYQ/s400/PTpilot2.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/M28GlCUkZAdJjqpIjCjQQg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/Syx8IVxiOsI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/uwtDpQmuvAU/s400/PTpilot3.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></table><br /><br />So if you are looking for good quality, hands free light for your aid bag, kit bag, vehicle gear, or just around the house check out the Remix and the Pilot from Princeton Tec. Available now at <a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/?Click=26">Austere Provisions Company</a>:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=PT-REMIX&amp;Click=26">Princeton Tec Remix at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=PT-Pilot&amp;Click=26">Princeton Tec Pilot at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br /><br />Thanks for checking us out,<br /><br />Mike<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-3081143686395678907?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-11284334544767737142009-12-10T18:18:00.000-08:002009-12-11T17:37:23.240-08:00As mentioned in the initial post of this blog the intent is to release information about new products added to the line up available at <a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/default.asp">Austere Provisions Company</a>. This weeks addition is The Esbit Pocket Stove and Fuel Cubes.<br /><br />A little background on how I was first introduced to the Esbit Pocket Stove, I was helping teach a class for a Greek Army unit and traveling light. During class I was spending extended periods of time out in the field during November in Greece. As the temp started to drop, one of the students offered me the use of his stove to make some warm tea. After a bit of familiarization I had a warm mug of tea. As is common with the Greeks, when I went to return the stove I was informed that it was now mine and a simple thank you was all that would be accepted. Thanks guys, you know who you are.<br /><br />I still have that stove today and after many years of use in the field it still works as well as new. In fact the stove has worked so well that I keep them stashed in many of my gear bags and foot lockers ready for travel. So here is a quick overview to get those that are new to the Esbit Pocket Stove familiar with this great piece of kit.<br /><br />The kit (as pictured below) includes the stove which is stamped out of galvanized hardened steel for durability and resistance to corrosion and six large solid fuel cubes.<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/A7wfN6TQIr9WgSdDHWAE1A?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/SyGkcOy128I/AAAAAAAAACg/iIoIW6rSvto/s400/DSC_0363.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 204, 204);font-size:85%;" >Details from the manufacturer:<br /><br />"The Esbit story began in 1936. Since than, Esbit stands for safe and highly efficient solid fuel cubes and stoves that have been used the world over. This compact solid fuel source will provide a steady and reliable heat for cooking, boiling water or for warmth in the outdoors. Esbit solid fuel cubes and stoves are used by various NATO forces, expeditions, in the aftermath of disasters, by a wide variety of outdoor enthusiasts and for powering toy steam engines.<br /><br />Contains:<br />-1 compact (3"x4"x3/4"), lightweight (3.25oz.) Esbit Pocket Stove made of galvanized, hardened steel<br />-6 Large Esbit Solid Fuel Cubes (1/2oz. ea.) up to 80 minutes cook time<br /><br />Esbit Large Solid Fuel Cubes:<br />-Individually packaged in water resistant, perforated blister packs<br />-Non-explosive<br />-Does not liquify when burning<br />-Ignites with match or lighter<br />-Approximately 13 minutes burn time per cube<br />-Can be extinguished and re-lit, reusable<br />-One cube will bring 1 pint of water to a rolling boil in less than 8 minutes<br />-Burns well at higher altitudes<br />-Strong heating output with no visible smoke and no sparks<br />-Makes a great campfire starter<br />-In high winds, place windscreen around the base of stove<br />-Stand on level, non-flammable surface when in use<br /></span><br />The stove has two cooking positions allowing for use of small cups and mugs or medium to large pots, and a stowed position.<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/2UxUcej9koo2dzKQ_mWy2g?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/SyHViD4ToLI/AAAAAAAAADc/yU9uVXVDvHA/s400/DSC_0451.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />To see a demonstration of the stove in use with the solid fuel cubes as well as a rough cook time check out this video. No need to watch the entire video unless you just feel like viewing minute after minute of water coming to a boil but you can fast forward to see how long it takes to get half a liter of water to boil. The mug is a Snowpeak Ti Mug that I have had for years, comes with a lid but that would defeat the purpose of showing you when it starts to boil.<br /><br /><object height="340" width="560"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Vk8_8FzZUFQ&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;color1=0x3a3a3a&amp;color2=0x999999"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Vk8_8FzZUFQ&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;color1=0x3a3a3a&amp;color2=0x999999" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="340" width="560"></embed></object><br /><br />A note on cook times: These videos were taken in a work shop on December 11, 2009, ambient temp was 48F although being inside obviously no wind was present. Take that into consideration when assessing fuel needs.<br /><br />However, should you run out of fuel or need to augment your solid fuel cubes you can use small organic materials to feed the fire, something you cant do on that multifuel stove. On a recent hike I stopped for a warm cup of hot cocoa and shot some photos of using small twigs to supplement the solid fuel cubes.<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/j9GbX2HK0I1uwlll-DPPmA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/SyGkc_D915I/AAAAAAAAACo/7zx3Eiqy4WI/s400/DSC_0335.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/TA6aYDF-MpBdu4yGxlD22g?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/SyGkcbO_yZI/AAAAAAAAACk/fLCuo7YA6nc/s400/DSC_0345.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Worried about how much weight this stove can hold? Or stability under an awkward load? Don't. As long as you do a reasonable job of finding a flat surface the ESBIT Pocket Stove can support quite a bit of weight, as shown below. Yep, that is 500 rounds of XM193 (just under 15 pounds of weight).<br /><br /><table style="width: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/7MpsHeiRplEo9QD6rPOznw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_kxXxHC7WlEU/SyGkdRsVU4I/AAAAAAAAACw/Ccwx4z0VDUE/s400/DSC_0429.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/AustereProvisions/BlogAlbum?feat=embedwebsite">Blog album</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />In conclusion, the Esbit Pocket Stove is another piece of gear that we at Austere Provisions Company recommend based on years of personal use out in the real world.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=ESBIT-S">ESBIT Pocket Stove with Six Large Fuel Cubes at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=ESBIT-F">ESBIT Large Fuel Cubes, 12 Pack at Austere Provisions Company</a><br /><br />Thanks for checking in,<br /><br />Mike<br /><a href="http://www.austereprovisions.com/"></a><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-1128433454476773714?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-33410282480360627292009-12-06T20:36:00.000-08:002009-12-06T20:47:19.859-08:00Well everyone, after much delay and toiling over a keyboard <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.austereprovisions.com" title="Austere Provisions Company">Austere Provisions Company</a> is live and ready for your orders. We have a limited line up but look for new editions weekly as we expand.<br /><br />Thanks for all the support,<br /><br />Mike<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-3341028248036062729?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2597932551075235754.post-24242871846348725132009-12-03T14:02:00.001-08:002009-12-03T14:13:18.641-08:00Welcome to the Austere Provisions Company Blog. The intent of this blog is to provide regular updates about the company as well as reviews and information about new additions to the product line up. Look to this blog for information about upcoming sales, promotions, or introductory offers on new gear as we expand our ability to serve you, the end user. Also, dont forget to add us to your Facebook Friends List, our site can be found here:<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/profile.php?ref=name&amp;id=100000165441737" target="_blank">Austere Provisions Company On Facebook</a><br /><br />Thanks for checking us out,<br /><br />Mike<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/2597932551075235754-2424287184634872513?l=austereprovisions.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Austere Provisionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13655476054075222746noreply@blogger.com0