ACW Tactical "Mac-Gyver" EDC/Survival Pack

[@KitbashedSurvival]

So, I missed something that other viewers caught. There's a rolled up piece of sand paper in the center of the roll of the duct tape. Nice catch, thanks!

[@jeepzj777]

I was screaming, "What's in the duct tape!?" Haha

[@WildGamer-qd1nf]

How about doing your own kits and selling them?

[@bopeton]

Thanks, I was about to ask about it. Glad I read comments first.

[@txgunguy2766]

Yeah, I saw that and I was wondering what that was.

[@davidcarothers3311]

Toilet paper? Eye wash? Aspirin? Spare socks? Mini flashlight?

[@acwtacticalusaoutfittersof4220]

We're no longer using the mini liquid filled compasses because they fail and are not reliable. We have a pile of about 300-500+ that are garbage and after time tend to get air bubbles. The newer one on the kit is mini SERE compass that glows in dark, for its size it's a real decent mini, and it works Very! well. much better than the previous version . Nice review and thanks for all the support

[@spotlightinspect5540]

Any idea when they will be back in stock?

[@Dezz097OG]

I would love to work with yall.

[@rbaziuk4053]

Do you plan to restock these?

[@Harrington2323]

Nice pack. 2 things I missed. First is a rescue/survival blanket and the second is more water-tablets. 2pc for 2 l is not enough.

[@pietrayday9915]

A great, inventive, compact, and well-thought-out kit - I've never seen most of those items included in pre-made kits before, excellent stuff! My only "complaint" would be that a "MacGyver kit" that doesn't include a Swiss Army Knife (or at least an inexpensive knock-off!) just doesn't seem right... sure, the multi-tool fills that role, but I'd definitely want to add my own Swiss Army knife to the kit, just because! :)

[@jamessotherden5909]

Back when I was a fire fighter most of us carried a few golf tees to plug gas lines or any line that need to be plugged.

[@RavenAung13]

The first pre-made kit I like. Normally I love to build my own kit but this one is insanely compact and well organized.

[@wmbomb1079]

Raven, ACW sells their bag 'empty' I have one myself.

[@codybill24]

Not sure if anyone mentioned it, but that "mirror" is actually a platter from a hard drive. They're excellent for it, really, because the platinum coating makes them very reflective and they're normally made of aluminum so they may bend but won't break or shatter really. Interesting (and very cheap) choice for a mirror.

[@KitbashedSurvival]

I was actually thinking that, funny

[@ChristopherCobra]

I noticed. It's a good way to keep them from a landfill and they do have steel cores - could be re-usable in other ways.

[@davidcarothers3311]

Folding plastic poncho?

[@jhtsurvival]

@@davidcarothers3311 what

[@jhtsurvival]

I Mentioned it in my head

[@originalzo6091]

My suggestion.... I always carry a half a hacksaw blade since my teens ...served me well more than once you'd be surprised how handy

[@justinmcleod141]

The striker on the ferro rod is a cut down hacksaw blade...

[@originalzo6091]

@@justinmcleod141 I mean a good piece about 6 in you can actually saw with

[@CoryCDS]

Yea a good enough size you fan strap to a stick and have a good handle, its definitely handy, even just a good size metal sawzall blade

[@rickmiles5297]

This was an interesting kit. It's loaded with things you may not anticipate needing but could be very handy to have in certain situations. I feel like this would be a good kit to throw in the car until you need something. Lots of possibilities.

[@dalecarr5445]

I’m glad you reviewed this kit. I bought three of the empty bags over the years and some of their individual components and plastic kits. They’re available separately on their site. As many have said, great customer service and great people to deal with. Again, thank you for the very comprehensive review.

[@savageg4594]

I honestly don't think that you could build that exact kit cheaper, because most of those screws, nails, washers and things you have to get in small boxes. Plus all the time it would take rounding up to hose parts . . . . . I don't think it would be worth the amount saved for the effort. I bought this kit and put a real leather man with bit kit plus a Swiss army explorer

[@the_real_MarcGyver]

what an absurdly ridiculous statement, most of these items can be replaced for pennies on the dollar, especially your specifically mentioned 'screws, nails, washers, etc' one walk down a home improvement isle in a walmart or home depot can net you these items for literal pennies, and be in better condition than these shown, half bent up and rusted/oxidized, everything in this kit is bottom of the barrel cheap nonsense in a conveinent, low quality pouch and overpriced as any other almost entirely useless 'survival kit' mass produced for ignorant/lazy people

[@CoryCDS]

@@the_real_MarcGyver I cant speak for everyone but I know I have all this laying around I really need to make a little kit like this though

[@katrose5572]

I can get single screws, nuts, bolts, nails and everything else at my local Ace hardware store.

[@hollywood3695]

There's only one Swiss army knife it's VictoriaKnox Champ everything else is obsolete. I do pack a Letterman's rip off next to it tho

[@nicolab2075]

@@hollywood3695 It weighs nearly half a pound though and is big!

[@CookingwithYarda]

Hi, that's not just a mirror there, it's a hard drive platter. I use them from broken hard drive, you can also get very strong magnet from hard disk too.

[@MrFredstt]

This is a pretty cool little kit. Has a bunch of stuff not usually seen. One thing I’ve always thought would be cool though was to have a little booklet detailing some of the uses for various items people may not be too familiar with

[@alancranford3398]

This is a comprehensive kit! Thanks for the review. This kit looks like it is well worth the cost. This could be considered as a 72-hour kit and the core of a larger 30-day kit. The number one survival kit is between your own ears. I worked as a security guard for three decades and some of my posts were remote. A few times I was on motor patrol at several different locations. Weather happens. When I had to wait for relief or for a client representative, the other guy might not show up on time--and I might have to work a double shift before I could leave. Having a small gym bag filled with stuff helped. Add in a decade and a half on active duty, and I can claim that I'm experienced with survival kits. A "real Leatherman" can cost as much as half the retail price (the kit was out of stock during January 2023). The bag itself is going to be as much as fifty dollars. Then there are all of the small manuals--print them yourself and watch the costs soar. I have to regard my survival kits as expendable--that is, an emergency will consume the kit. Disposable is one step less durable. If I don't, the survival kit gets locked in a safe that is locked in a secure storage facility and guarded by Dobermans... Unfortunately, I've seen people proudly display their magical box, a survival kit costing as much as five thousand dollars, but that kit was never carried, never packed in their car or boat or plane because it might be lost or stolen or destroyed. The ACW kit is fairly compact--but if you cannot haul that thing around all of the time, it probably won't be there when needed. Sometimes my kit had to fit in a uniform pocket without making bulges (that's why I kept a gym bag kit in my car--and when possible, staged it at my duty post). I have a background in logistics and survival kits must be maintained. Drugs have expiration dates. Items are lost or used up. Batteries discharge. Adhesives dry out. Putting a rubber band on a plastic bag can weld the rubber band to the other plastic. Then there's the progress of medical science--the first aid gear I used to rely on (Carlise bandages, aka Field Dressing) have been superseded by QuikClot. Anybody remember salt tablets? For a 72-hour kit salt tablets won't be necessary, but for a 30-day kit it's desirable to maintain electrolyte balance. Diet fads can injure--or worse. In the Thirties Army doctors working with FDR's public work programs discovered that the workers could labor around the clock if they drank gallons of ice water per day, but a combination of depressed appetite and flushing out potassium and sodium could lead healthy young men into cardiac arrest, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Misuse of these magical water tablets by substituting salt tablets for water led to hypertension, cardiac arrest, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Gee--every solution creates new problems! Your primary survival kit is between your ears--so take a first aid and sports medicine course or read a few books. Sometimes I wasn't permitted to bring a survival kit with me and had to assemble one at my destination--and when I departed for home, that expedient kit couldn't come with me. Adding a couple of energy bars to the kit looks possible--but swap them out at least annually. I'd also add a 3x5 or 4x6 spiral bound notebook and carry a pen and mechanical pencil along. Another thing that I used to carry was a disposable camera--when not prohibited. Expensive, but after recommending that a camera be issued to security field supervisors and having my manager tell me to mind my own business, I handed my camera to the investigator so that there would be a photographic record of a severe incident. The investigator didn't have a camera back then. Today everybody has a smart phone and the record can be transmitted almost instantly. A few people who didn't survive their adventures did have a small camera with them that proved useful in the investigation afterwards. Oh, yes--the investigators wound up with 35mm cameras (okay cameras, but nothing professional) and all supervisors were issued a sealed disposable camera afterwards. I was reimbursed for my camera. The film saved the company several thousand dollars. Some specialized equipment isn't even on most people's radar. For kit maintenance I do two things--jot down shortcomings or suggestions in that small spiral-bound notebook, and when I return home, I'd lay out my kit and check all components. What did I expend? What do I need more of? Replacing the notebook after using the kit is a minor expense that can save you much pain later. My attitude towards commercial survival kits is that they are a start on an adequate survival kit. There's always something for me to learn. Thanks--I got to see someone else's solutions.

[@nicolab2075]

Fascinating account, thanks for posting

[@pietrayday9915]

Yes, thank you for posting! Real-world experience with these things really trumps the "tacticool mall-ninja" stuff from those of us who don't normally need to use this sort of thing in real survival situations. I've worked an office job in small or larger cities with long commutes for the last 20 years, and it's an entirely different "survival" thing from what these kits are usually aimed at: I've never needed a hunting knife, fishing kit, or redundant fire-starting tools, but I have absolutely been in situations where things like those dice and cards could have relieved a lot of boredom and anxiety (overnights in hotel rooms or the office, stuck overnight on the side of the road in a stalled car in the middle of nowhere). I've kept a gym bag under my desk or in a desk drawer for years, with bottles of water (or a gallon jug of water), simple food items for comfort and energy, and a little mess kit to microwave ramen soup or instant oatmeal or whatever in, along with a spare polo shirt and trousers, and a wind-breaker jacket: a first-world-problem "life-saver" for unexpected over-nighters, or that time a blizzard trapped me in the office for a couple days with no way home, or a hurricane locked us down for a day or two! A sewing kit has bailed me out of trouble more than once (try working in a crowded office all day with the seat of you trousers torn open, and you really learn to appreciate being able to dash into a wash room to make a quick repair to hold you long enough to survive a half-hour train ride home!) All the little bits-and-bobs in this "MacGyver kit" are the sort of thing I kept in a small toolbox in my desk for making quick computer and office equipment repairs, along with a small ratchet/socket/screwdriver set and a few other small tools, and candles came in handy just once for lighting my cubicle during an extended power outage, while key-ring flashlights or cell-phone lights came in handy more than once. Little single-serving travel packs of things like aspirin, ibuprofin, anti-diarrhea, allergy-relief, and so on have also been a hit around the office: I never want to end up stuck in traffic with intestinal distress again, for sure, and pretty much everyone you work with in an office seems to have headaches, upset stomach, runny nose, or whatever every now and then. A fistful of band-aids somehow gets a lot of use, too! A little glasses repair and cleaning kit also goes well in an office "survival" kit. I recently ordered up a pack of those disposable sunglasses that optometrists hand out to you after dilating your eyes: one of these takes up practically no room at all in almost any survival kit, weighs almost nothing, and I've been stuck more than once looking into a rising or setting sun on a commute without sunglasses. Those packs of little single-use toothbrushes pre-loaded with a little tooth-paste are great, as are those little travel-sized deodorant, soap, and mouthwash kits: a sweaty walk in summer heat to the office alone makes these sorts of things worth it, your coworkers won't thank you for it, but will definitely notice when you don't have it! A little spare cash or a pre-loaded debit card to pay for a cab ride or a train ticket home is also great. Somehow, I never seem to have a little notebook and pen around when needed in the car, to take down license plate numbers or insurance information with. And a disposable camera has come in handy for me at least once in taking accident scene photos! Whatever, it's absolutely good advice to build your own kit for the sorts of emergencies that you are most likely to encounter, keep it up-to-date, keep it where you can use it when needed, and keep it expensive enough that you won't lose too much sleep if you lose it or it gets stolen.

[@matthewtaylor3301]

This is the best pre-made kit I’ve yet seen. Sourcing many of the items within would actually be quite expensive as many of them are parted out.

[@hobbyhermit66]

With foam earplugs, fish hooks , and glue, you have the makings of a nice Hula Popper. Add a couple bird feathers to make it more tantalizing, or use it as a bait float for a worm rig. I'd add a casting bubble for hula popper use.

[@Raptor-ew6to]

I'm a little less dissapointed with the fact that it's not a real leatherman and a bit more disappointed that, given the name, it's not a Swiss Army Knife style nock-off... ya know... MacGyver and all, he carried a Swiss Army Knife, not a Leatherman.

[@thewatcher611]

IKR? They could at least imitate the right thing.....

[@bagboy1942]

It has a paper clip which makes it qualify as a MacGyver kit.

[@nigspencer1982]

I was thinking the same thing

[@andrewengle5959]

But where is the Wrigley's wrapper for fish lure?

[@williammitchell4417]

There have been SO MANY versions of the multi-tool out there. I have one that I've had for 20 years. What I like about mine is that it can work like a Crescent Wrench.

[@NWAAdventures]

The ACW customer service is top notch as well. I bought the bag and the 2 satellite pouches for the sides and made my own kit. Awesome gear.

[@KitbashedSurvival]

Right on

[@realiouslytv1711]

Where did you buy it

[@dustinorbik7352]

Probably rides wth Jina

[@dustinorbik7352]

Sorry ,probably Rhymes with VA Jina

[@ahill209]

A very well put-together kit with lots of useful stuff. Including the breakout illustrations and the survival tips manual were great. You can order a lot of the pre-packaged stuff directly from ACW Tactical. A couple of things I thought should be added were a larger flashllight and insect repellant. I thought they could have included a waterproof notepad vs. the two single pages as well. And a mini-sharpie for marking things or leaving messages.

[@caravann26]

I bought just the bag from acw a few years ago.and the company threw in most of the lower cost items for free as a starter kit with a hand written thank you note! Very generous company !

[@mcramblet]

A very well thought out survival/EDC kit. This is probably the most interesting kit that I've seen reviewed. I certainly tend to lean towards EDC over straight up survival kits, for the practically of them. This kit strikes such a nice balance. Thanks for bringing this to my attention.

[@paweszymonjasinski7158]

SOLKOA was interesting as well. I like these both

[@HorsesArePeople2]

Sorry but how are miniature playing cards and condoms "well thought out"? A lot of it is just genuinely cheap junk

[@mcramblet]

@@HorsesArePeople2 I didn't say it was perfect, but I do think a lot of thought went into making a kit that would have broad application in a variety of situations.

[@scottaskew8408]

@@HorsesArePeople2 boredom is a real killer! You could be sat for days with nothing to!

[@HorsesArePeople2]

@@scottaskew8408 Trust me, if you're ever in a survival situation there's plenty to do lol

[@felixcat9318]

This is a unique and very comprehensive kit designed by professionals. The consideration that went into the selection and acquisition of the components was quite remarkable. I do not believe that it would be possible to replicate that kit without exceeding the purchase price of the original. It has opened my eyes as to what may be included in a compact kit. I would have no problem about the cost of the kit, just imagine the time it took to identify, locate and recieve all of the components, which would have to be bought in much greater quantities than needed, at higher cost. Unequalled in content and good value, those lists and guides werr superb in quality and content. Outstanding, honest review, subscribed.

[@shastaham7630]

By far, the most comprehensive kit of its kind, especially at less than $300. I'd add a poncho and a utility blade holder to serve as a knife. I'd also upgrade the multitool and compass. Finally, I'd change out the lighter for a full size BIC. Oh, and I might change out the bandana for an orange or blue one.

[@crowbrocaw]

Clipper lighters are superior because you can refill them and change the Flint

[@wishiwasamuffin]

I'm beginning to make my own Altoids tin kits, and when I'm done with making ones for friends and family and start to actually sell them, I'm gonna send one to you for review. It's 2 "modules" that are ranger-banded together, and they can be separated into 2 waterproof kits, each just slightly larger than and slightly thicker than an Altoids tin. The first "Module" is an entire Altoids tin kit sealed with bright yellow vinyl electrical tape making it waterproof, and a few things wrapped around it to soften it. "Module 2" is all wrapped up in a bright yellow (or if supplies come back, safety orange) bandana, and then vacuum sealed. There is a box cutter blade with a tinfoil sheet in the other kit as well as a 33" Milwaukee brand hacksaw blade. I measured, cut, and sanded the edges for a less miserable cutting attempt. It has an entire folded up water-proof in a Ziplock gallon back with color photos and instructions and load out in each part of the kit. It's made to keep 1 preson alive overnight in any temperature, down to below freezing. It shows you how to make a shelter, safe leave no trace fire, and how to make a browse bed, along with safety information, knots that are directly relevant to the shelter, and even HotHands Adhesive Body Warmers to apply to your arteries in deadly cold conditions. I won't say the whole kit, but it has a decent reflective on one side/orange on the other mylar/plastic sheet 98" by 55" (If I remember correctly), 12 feet of Gorilla Tape Xtra Thick safety orange duct tape, a 1 Liter Whirlpack stand-up water back, and a strip of 10 Aquatabs, a mini Bic lighter with the safety removed, & UCO Storm Matches and extra strikers. Compass. Whistle Light. All pre-tested, whistles were not blown by bare mouth to check for quality, but through an N95 mask, and then put in 95% Isopropyl Alcohol for 24 hours and then air dryed for germ safety. That's just the tip of the iceberg. I may just make these for friends and family and not sell them on Etsy or whatever, but I really want to make one for you and ask you to review, for free. I want your honest opinion! I'd be beyond flattered if you'd do an honest Kitbashed Survival review, and show what you would add, any removals or critiques, and just hear your honest opinion. I'm a long-time fan and subscriber, and I respect your opinion. You know the value of a quality kit. If it wouldn't be too much, I'd love to know how much you think I should sell them for. I need to tally up full cost, and then to 10%-15% on that for the effort to be worth the time and pain to make these things. Anyways. Each "Module" (and it's just 2) is waterproof, and each one fits in a cargo pocket, like a wallet almost. Happy to see you're a cat man! I knew I liked you for a reason! Hahaha! Hope to send it to you by end of this Spring!

[@hdrider2071]

The value on this kit is unbelievable. I am a cheapskate and i am picking one up. The time to organize and pack it plus the actual bag is worth the asking price.

[@JayJay-jn9ln]

So you’re gonna send 219$ on about 60$ of stuff max?

[@hdrider2071]

@@JayJay-jn9ln yeap ...you could put together the exact kit and i will buy it from you .

[@jdshl8423]

This is one seriously made kit with a ton of different things. I think a lot of the organisation flaps could be removed to create more internal volume if you organised some of the small items together by function into ziploc bags and packed them flat. I reckon a small vinyl poncho could fit in there as well. Those little plastic containers were mindblowingly good!

[@nirfz]

Was thinking about a vynil poncho too, seems someone else too has been standing in cold rain without protection at least once in life.

[@jdshl8423]

@@nirfz , I don't know how often it rains where you are, but where I'm at, it's a normal occurrence. So yes, a vinyl poncho is a very good idea to actually staying relatively dry. And a poncho falls under the category of "cover", which translates to "shelter", in the 10C's of survival for a kit this small in size. Most ponchos, even small-ish ones, can be set up like a tent with cord and stakes. Would improve the setup by including a super large thick trash bag to put my stuff and butt on. I don't remember exactly what was in this kit, but I would also include a small folding backpack or stuffable shopping bag.

[@nirfz]

@@jdshl8423 Rain itself is a normal occurence here too, but usually i am prepared for the weather and don't have to stand in the rain without anything for a longer period of time. But for situations where that's not the case such an item is great.

[@pietrayday9915]

A poncho can be used to collect rain water, dew, or condensation to drink as well. As for shelter, I've been stuck in a cold, soggy rainy day more than once, feeling glad I had a cheap disposable poncho in my car, office desk, or laptop bag!

[@matthewshannon6946]

Best looking kit I've seen in quite a while...very comprehensive. Not outrageously priced, either. The bag is genius!

[@LadyTSurvival]

Actually that's a pretty well thought out kit, and of course everybody has their opinions as to what should or should not be in it, but all in all it's got all the little doodads that can be so handy. Something like that inside of a bug out bag to flesh it out would be pretty good

[@alouvoss]

Great review, thank you. Last year I built myself a FAC that's velcroed to the back of the passenger seat in my pickup and which I then take out on group hikes. Similar pouch (but without the 'wings') and I've bought a couple more. Having seen this I'll probably now turn one into a 'MacGyver' kit and the third into a cook/rations kit. The small plastic boxes are a helpful addition. Good stuff!

[@mavric007898]

Okay so here is the deal. This is a really great Co. I just went to their web site a few days ago, and ordered a black empty Mac-Gyver bag. When I recievet it it was to my suprise a complete full bag with all of the contents, and then some. They really went out of their way to meet the coustomer needs. Now I did really want the full bag, but I could not afford it so I ordered the plane empty black bag. Wow Thank you so much ACW Tactical.

[@wmbomb1079]

I purchase my Mac-Gyver pack many years ago, yes I've added many things to it and it has saved my butt so many times I personally Highly Recommend it to everyone I know '&' to all of you, one thing I love about ACW is they 'always' send along add-ons unexpectedly for you to utilize in your Mac-Gyver pack.

[@SitNSpinRecords]

One thing I’ve never seen in a kit is a write in the rain book. In survival, relying on memory alone is a good way to meet Jesus.

[@thetacticalape8852]

That is a very well thought out kit. It gives you a nice variety of resources that can get you through a multitude of scenarios. I would add a headlamp, a knife, a better compass, a better quality bivy bag and life straw / purification tabs. I would likely also attach a pair of work gloves to the kit.

[@acwtacticalusaoutfittersof4220]

We're no longer using the mini liquid filled compasses because they fail and are not reliable. We have a pile of about 300-500+ that are garbage and after time tend to get air bubbles. The newer one on the kit is mini SERE compass that glows in dark, for its size it's a real decent mini, and it works Very! well. much better than the previous version . Nice review and thanks for all the support

[@GingrBreadMan]

@@acwtacticalusaoutfittersof4220 that's good to hear given I just got one of these kits. I love the fact you guys are actively improving the kit, shows that you guys care. One suggestion if you guys plan on doing a version 3 of this pack would be to increase the overall size of the pack to allow for adding additional gear.

[@agentvx8320]

Not sure what I'd do with the dice personally, but in the same vein I think the mini deck of cards is a fantastic idea. I've never seen a survival kit put thought into occupying you (other than securing basic needs like fire and shelter) while waiting for rescue, but realistically in terms of time frame it probably does come between water and food in terms of urgency. Just being able to play solitaire is probably going to do a lot more to maintain morale than a couple pieces of hard candy or a bullion cube. (Of course a cup of tea/coffee or two is going to do a lot to help your core temperature if you are cold/wet before you're able to make a fire and shelter.)

[@pietrayday9915]

I can't help imagining being stranded on the side of the road for a long time in a stalled car with kids: it's times like that when a set of dice or deck of cards can really shine, and keep the kids quiet and take their mind off of things so you can stress about how to get your family out of this mess in peace and quiet! Sure, cell phones will do a lot of that today and it would have been a bigger deal back when I was a kid, but even today batteries will run down eventually, and there's only so far you can go with a car radio or guessing game after that, until the constant complaints of "I'm bored! Are we there yet? How much longer?" starts getting on your last nerve! These sorts of morale items, along with the bits of candy, are a very nice touch in a little kit like this!

[@bradfoster7771]

you can also use the jolly rancher to break tempered glass. 1. lick it 2. stick it to window with slight pressure till it stays. 3. wait for it to dry. 4. pull it off. the sudden tension release if done right should break the glass.

[@phild8095]

I've put together a survival kit, it includes jumper cables, chest seals, flares, 30 feet of heavy chain, spare magazines of hollow points, knives, wool blankets, lighters, sand, shovels and so on. They are EDC for the pickup truck. Total weight about 200 pounds the sand being the heaviest single item followed closely by the chain then the jumper cable.

[@KalpeshPatel78]

Those plastic bags are aweomse @14:47. I'd use it to collect water from Leaves by evaporation. I have a stack full of them. 80-100 in my kit. just tie it around a leafy branch and it collects water via evaporation early in the morning.

[@Jaden1673]

With this kit you got everything you need to restart a gaming house after SHTF. No really they added a lot of things many kits forget. The little things that make getting water and such easier. Only thing I seen they sort of dropped the ball on is ways to purify water.

[@jhtsurvival]

Fire

[@markashlock9017]

IMHO, not only the most interesting and desirable kit you’ve reviewed, but also, the best job you’ve done. That being said, can’t believe you didn’t add your beloved Imodium and Benadryl ; )

[@gordontyree9858]

WOW! Another great review and kit made better by your additions! I especially like all the color illustrations of the components and instructions. Gonna purchase one of these kits! Thanks Eric and HAPPY NEW YEAR!🎉🥂

[@AYellowPepper]

The fact that there is not Swiss army knife in there is HIGHLY dissapointing! A Victorinox Huntsman can be had for 25 as a customer, im guessing for 15 if you buy 1000 at a time...

[@hamhawk4027]

It's not MacGyver if there is no Swiss army knife ):

[@Normalmarten]

How do you not have 1 mil subscribers this is my favorite channel

[@KitbashedSurvival]

Thanks!

[@carltonbraxton5399]

Note: inside the duc tape is a small section of rolled up sandpaper

[@michaelmoore1932]

Was wondering what it was.. thanks!

[@gwpattrick]

Me too

[@CZpersi]

Czech boyscouts refer to these survival packs as "KPZ" (Krabička poslední záchrany, or "Box of last resort"). As kids, we used to learn how to make ones ourselves back in the days. I still have mine somewhere and use it when backpacking.

[@rogerparrett3242]

One of the best, well thought out, and documented kits I've ever seen.

[@michaelsimmons8731]

You can actually boil water over flame in the paper cups. The round mirror has a hole so it could be used as a signaling mirror. You look through the hole at your target.

[@Reichsadler-Germania]

@Kitbashed Survival: Could you make a video in the future in which you show your personnel "top 5" (and why) of all survival kits of all times? That would be awesome! Best regards fom Germany!

[@KitbashedSurvival]

Yes

[@kiltedjoe]

AWESOME review, I love the guys over at ACW tactical, I put their compact survival guides in the kits I sell on Ebay, and the guys there at ACW are really friendly and helpful and have some great ideas on kit components and configurations.

[@samcantu24]

For anyone that got confused about the eyelet screws in the fishing kit; those are great for building a fishing rod.

[@001desertrat3]

@Samantha Cantu -- You can also use the loop ends of the paperclips , or safety pins and tie them to your pole using the inner strands from a one foot length of Para-Cord . BTDT !

[@RimfireAddicted70]

Great channel, I just came across it by random chance but seen several videos and the presentation is nice. As far as this kit, yes saying it's pricey is an understatement. If the contents proved valuable I could justify the price but it's full of trinkets and the important items are too few to small to be of real help. I started laughing in the beginning when I saw the golf tees, from there its contents just went downhill. People who are serious will see this and shake their head because they know better. This kind of kit is made for people who want to buy something to show off to friends like a new toy but would never be used by real people in the real world when life matters.

[@Michael-im1vc]

On the multi tool.... Put a small wrap of the tape around the shaft of the hex bit holder. That'll then up the for just enough to reduce wobble. Your comment about other people's comments on the quality issue of the cheaper tools cracked me up. I totally agree! WTH do they expect from a pre made kit? They'd probably object to the price if it included a Leatherman or Gerber tool. I'm a Master Electrician and have been involved in the trades for 33 years. In a pinch I've been able to perform "miracles" with cheap, ass low quality tools. Knowledge and experience trump most everything. 😉

[@viz.on7]

Awesome review! One of the best packs I saw on KZbin (and I saw a lot of them!). Not too mush BS or gimmicks which don't work (except very few items), someone really thought through about what goes inside and what is useful, which many "survival" packs lack in that area and usually it's either super expensive branded stuff or pure junk. Thanks for the video.

[@deadpoollee9497]

Gives me lots of ideas to add to my bag. Never thought of some of that stuff

[@Motownbandit]

Very comprehensive kit, I think the time and thought put into it is worth its weight in gold. The pack alone is the most compartmental pack I’ve seen. It does lack a few things and some things I would never see using. Fat wood would be a nice addition, bank line, life straw or sawyer squeeze. Mini credit card survival Guide would save space and weight. Roadside flare if possible to fit. I could think of others but to each his own. Great review!!

[@hilliard665]

It's honestly a very inexpensive kit, but the kit includes the bag, the bag makes it so neat and compact and easy to carry. Im currently building a kit but a nice bag/package is what is really going to bring it together.

[@tardismole]

Is it just me, or was anyone else ticking off scenes from the MacGyver series? This kit is incredible, and it has room for any additions/amendments that you might think of that they didn't. Thanks for the honest review. I was considering getting one, but it's been out of stock forever, so I will probably just upgrade my own EDC. Very useful video.

[@garyjohnson4608]

The only thing I would add to this, other than what you added, is a carry strap so it could be slung over your shoulder to keep your hands free.

[@kevinroche3334]

paracord

[@jdisdetermined]

A simple piece of candy/sugar can be a literal life saving thing for people with certain health issues. Actually a very cool addition. Jolly Rancher should obviously be watermelon though. Nearly an unforgivable mistake there..

[@firepwr21]

😆

[@onetimer44]

Hardware kit is interesting. I always kept a few drywall screws and screw hooks. Knives and multitools are cool, but to have something to securely attach things to each other is an extreme advantage. Screw and hooks are reusable as well. Washers would come in handy as well. If the multitool is strong with its attachments it's a great addition.

[@moxy9896]

I'm calling this one my junk drawer in a bag.Not what I would call a survival kit. Just started watching your vids on these kits and you do a Great job reviewing them..Thanks..

[@michaeldombrowski9193]

I really appreciate that you take the time to,test and examine a large variety of survival kits.However, I saw 2 immediate failures in the design of the kit. The first is that it needs a headlamp right out front if you’re suddenly stuck in the dark to read the instructions and to sort through all of those little pieces of paper and first aid items using both hands. It also lacks simplicity which could be a matter of life and death when you can’t think clearly because you’re fatigued, dehydrated, sleep deprived, have low blood sugar, or are even drunk. I think that you may have tested a similarly themed survival tin several years ago, the Limitedless Equipment Mark 1 which was much simpler and cheaper where it was much easier to decipher the use of the objects. The McGyver kit looks like something that would appeal,to those who like to do crosswords puzzles or as a party themed piece where people drink and discuss the novelty of each item. If ACW issues a similar McGruber survival kit, I can’t wait to see you test it just to see what type of drugs are in it!😀 I did like the design of the carrying case.

[@Vault57]

22:33 That looks like the compass that was supplied in the 1960s era escape and evade kits used by downed pilots. It was small, concealable, and could be swallowed if needed. The only thing different is the addition of the lanyard ring and the extra cordage supplied in the attached lanyard. They also glowed in the dark. The Bazooka gum also comes with a waxed paper wrapping, good tinder. The Jolly Rancher has a plastic wrap that, if heated, could be melted to make a pinhole patch on a container or used as another form of 'glue'.

[@DiHandley]

I think that this is the most comprehensive “survival kit” I have ever seen!

[@swanseamale47]

The pouch itself is a great bit of kit, a few of the contents I personally wouldn't carry but the pouch I'd buy for my own kit if it's available on it's own. Enjoyed the video as always mate. Regards Wayne

[@tenjetu]

I'm also interested in the empty pouch, any luck finding it?

[@swanseamale47]

@@tenjetu No mate, couldn't find the same pouch on it's own.

[@brycee.maryott8802]

I *fully* endorse the company. Bought the kit empty (because I had other needs) and it is VERY durable! Considering buying a full one now.

[@TheGeekiestGuy]

I love that this kit has everything I keep in the center console of my car. I knew Macgyver was teaching me the best way to go, from way way back in the day. I haven't been a fan of the newer iteration. RDA is the man.

[@LiveLo0t]

Very impressed with this kit but I am more impressed with this channel! You sir, have earned yourself a subscriber! Looking forward to more content!

[@marcomcdowell8861]

Pre-built kits, be it first aid, survival, emergency, are built and marketed for people who don't have the experience to build their own. You're looking at folks in cities and towns that don't practice field skills. The items would be practical for your average family traveling through a city disaster or stuck at home. People who practice survival, bushcraft or rudimentary outdoors skills would put their own bags together. I saw a lot of bags and "EDC" kits handed out to the locals post tsunami/eartthquake in Japan. They weren't heading to the mountains to live off the land, they were stuck in tents, parking lots or school fields with water and food available and using the neighbor's shrubs as firewood as they waited for housing elsewhere. They do serve a purpose to everyday non-woodsmen/women.

[@user-gr8ko2bu4w]

I love the pencil sharpener to make little arrow tips or little spear tips you got enough stuff in there to make a bow .

[@josephdixon1827]

Golfing T's can also be used for sticking in food as a general eating utensil. I have those in my Kit. I use the long ones.

[@jelkel25]

Yes, I prefer the more ongoing, EDC type kit. This has a good pouch that wouldn't be difficult to haul around, a sound basis to develop the kit to your needs, environment, skills. My first kit along these lines was just an old med kit pouch I used after I'd bought a better med kit. Yes, the camo small items of outdoor gear, in the end you usually end up putting a bright lanyard/tape/paint ect on the item anyway so maybe save yourself the hassle and buy bright to begin with.

[@psychocuda]

A few thoughts. You can have the best of both worlds with a real Leatherman and those bits; if you have a Leatherman which has an adapter driver like the Wave, Surge, etc. and a bit driver extension, you can fit those standard bits into the extension (or just buy a Leatherman Bit Kit; which is lighter weight than what that kit offers.) I know it included a lighter and fero/mag starter, but I was surprised there weren't waterproof matches. I'd probably also want a slightly better flashlight in there, so maybe sacrifice some other items to accommodate those. I'd probably also swap out the fishing kit for some better quality hooks, maybe some jigs and flies, more soft plastics. Other than that and your own additions like the survival straw, seems like a pretty good kit.

[@imaginewhirledpeas6696]

i have the same magnesium ferro rod fire starter,the striker* tool just so happens to be a piece of hacksaw blade too which can be useful...pretty cool and potentially very useful kit all around..nice..

[@MrGriffo666]

a good addition I've always put in mine NOT to replace the water purification tabs but to supplement them, is a small plastic bottle of iodine, eg betadine or povodine (same stuff, different trade names). 1 drop in a litre of water and left for an hour, will make water drinkable. not tasty, but drinkable. definitely make sure first, that nobody with an iodine allergy (fish/prawns/oysters/etc) will be drinking that water.

[@maybeso1547]

Best one I've seen yet! Would be great for a work truck with all the random stuff. No way you could get all this stuff and build for less money either.

[@curcapsicum]

31:56 that's definitely a hard drive platter! That's so random that it's in this kit hahah, maybe they had a huge surplus of old hard drives or got platters cheap from somewhere. That's awesome. I've been using one as a coaster on my desk with felt pats on the bottom for years and years now. edit: oops sorry I scrolled down, people of course mentioned that already. My bad!

[@scorpionregent648]

There are only a few things missing: anti diarrheal meds, a binder clip, a steel nail file, a couple key chain carabiners. Personally I would lose the compass and replace it with a magnet. That way I could make my own compass(es) as needed. I see that kit as being part of a EDC load out or as in vehicle resource. I would not add a knife, when I all ready have one on my belt. Light weight is a under appreciated resource.

[@DB-yj3qc]

I've read a few post about the compass being a cheap low value one, not quite sure that anyone really checked it out. That is a copy of a military / aviation issued survival compass with a very long history to at least WW2 I've got a few after locating a supplier. The reason it's not liquid filled is that type always develops a bubble and then junk. It's made for general direction not precision navigation but if thinking out side of box with the paper and pencil the accuracy can be improved especially with the use of the mirror (hard disk platter) by making a degree wheel of a protractor. A very interesting kit.

[@DLFerg0369]

I'd just like to have the pouch. Great configuration for all the space.

[@reldoc]

I see this as an urban/suburban "oopsie" kit. Mac-Guyver for lots of non-critical situations. It is adaptable for a survival situation, particularly in an urban setting where the wire, tubing (siphon), screws, nails and those other little kits would be fantastic. I can see pulling elements out (and replacing them) all the time.

[@duanebouchard8736]

If you were using that kit, i would use one of the extra plastic bags as a work surface. Pouring the small parts or fishing kits on the ground is just asking to lose stuff.

[@stephanieroberts4474]

There's a tooth brush, no toothpaste lol. This is a very thought out kit. And there's room for more. Now off to search online for a Molly bag that resembles that bag if it were empty. I just would like to have one for when going on mission trip travels. Have a blessed night!

[@JWimpy]

Looks like a very well-thought-out kit. But this would be for those who are not familiar with setting up their own kit or do not want to go through the trouble of resourcing everything. For a real survivalist though each one would want to build their kit to match their lifestyle. For instance, the multitool is a nice addition but, like me, I would be carrying a genuine Leatherman on my belt already.

[@grannieannie1371]

I actually love it. It could be so useful if, say you had to evacuate due to a natural disaster. Especially if you have children. You often have to stay longer than you anticipate. I'm a little disappointed it didn't have blue tack in it though. But all in all a interesting repair kit.

[@pietrayday9915]

Great idea on the blue-tack! A survival kit for an evacuation is exactly what I think of when thinking of a "bug-out bag" or whatever: something quick, compact, light, and simple that can get you through being stranded in a stadium, Hurricane Katrina style, waiting out the aftermath of a disaster. I think one of these packs would definitely help hold a family over for a couple weeks in that sort of situation, with the only additions I could think of being to strap it to a backpack containing some emergency food and water, some hand-warmers and gloves, a crank weather radio/flashlight/power-bank, one of those cheap S-Mart travel-kits consisting of a zipper-bag with travel-size deoderant, soap, toothpaste, and toothbrush in it, and the stuff for a sturdier shelter (small tarp, stakes, and cordage.) Maybe hide a pre-paid debit card in there, too, or a little cash. Let the strongest member of the family carry that heavy stuff, and otherwise, set up some backpacks for each family member containing a light-and-simple change of clothes, a windbreaker, gloves, and hat to keep warm with (depending on the climate/season), emergency poncho and thermal blanket, a couple glow-sticks, and a bottle of water and some travel snacks for morale and energy (trail mix, jerky, whatever), maybe also some small fidget-toys, a pack of green army men, or whatever for the kids to keep busy with when boredom, fear, and anxiety set in: pack light, inexpensive, and disposable, but cover the basics; sure, it's not "EDC", nor the sort of thing you want to keep your car cluttered up with "just in case", but for a quick grab-and-go to pick up on the way out the door while evacuating against a hurricane, flood, or whatever, I'm sure you'll be glad to have it should you and your family be stuck in a motel room, shelter, or that stadium for days!

[@RIP_Texpert]

I've been waiting for this review for the longest time :)

[@Greenmachine305]

Was thinkjng during the review, all its missing is better water purification and storage...then you added it. Great review!

[@najroe]

That pencilsharpener looks like mine, mine is made out of MAGNESIUM, check if shavings burn, if so it is amother multi use item. Also water storage is needed, I would put two of your 1l standup bags in there, preferably in different sections, you know, redundancy.

[@HE-pu3nt]

20:55 Those pencil sharpeners are made of magnesium. Magnesium is soft, so it's easy to shave off some metal flakes. Mix with the tinder, light, and it readily burns hotter than 2000'c.

[@jhtsurvival]

This is a great kit. A survival kit should be something to get you through an emergency. A few days at most. It should help you with Fire, water, shelter, a little food and first aid. A little bag like this that can be thrown in your car trunk... survival situations IMO are things like a car crash leaving you stranded, going on a hike and getting lost, boating accidents or getting lost on a boat or on a river maybe. Hopefully you would only have to last a few days at most before help comes. Anything more extreme you should be prepared for getting into that situation.

[@behindthespotlight7983]

At 13:19 in this seems more like a “that kitchen drawer” kit. Which can certainly have a place in a vehicle or other conveyance. But “survival kit” seems like a bit of bad nomenclature on this one. As always, Eric, great review & love your channel.

[@unprofor9394]

Happy New Year, from Norway, too! Maybe, it was Space enough, to put in an Olight S1 Mini-Baton, with a couple of spare Batteries. Light, is KING! But I’m not telling You, what to put inside. I’m just watching Your’s Videos. And, I’m ENJOYING it!😀👍

[@jonathanhines1438]

A real MacGyver pack would be empty... MacGyver Pilot: Andy Colson: You know it's going to take a lot more than you can carry in that knapsack to get you through all of this. MacGyver: Well, the bag is not for what I take Colson. It is for what I find along the way.

[@alanrice39]

It’s a great kit but more that you need for three day survival situation, that’s a really nice robust bag, I can see it very valuable more for a stranded situation by having those neat playing cards.

[@earlenone5661]

The golf Tee's are used by special programs as trail markers, trail markers, and team indications.

[@dukeeod1650]

I bought one of these kits and it is well put together, Glad you had the video so I know what it contains. For the price and quality, it is a one-stop shop. can't wait to see your take on it. thanks for doing this kit., the book is awesome!. With everything, I think it is on par with the ESSE. So far the best you have reviewed. Not a survival kit but a truly MacGyver kit. The pouch can be purchased alone if need be and the manual and lens can be purchased separately. Great video been waiting for a while to see your opinion. thanks

[@dustinorbik7352]

No disrespect sir but you really should have done some research I've bought something with some qualityNo disrespect sir but you really should have done some research I've bought something with some quality. And this is just my opinion but I buy Americans for Americans, That said there are a lot of good companies Is that make similar gear Related packs but with but with actual content contents that are useful I mean you paid $200 for a tampon duck Tape and sandpaper And a hose/tourniquet,

[@dukeeod1650]

@@dustinorbik7352 Dustin, thanks for the advice and I know there are better kits out there I bought mine when they were under 150 bucks and it works for me as a grab-and-go kit. I personalized it somewhat but to each their own. thanks for the dialogue and reply. be safe and take care

[@togafighter6812]

Great video. By far the most revelant item to prevent an actual risk, in our current world, is the profilact.

[@jmartin4396]

Interesting choices in this kit. I think my favorite thing is the actual bag itself. I love bags.

[@BeepBopBoop_Pro]

I do a lot of day hiking in the mountains (3 times a week). I really like this kit! The only other thing I would have added were Peptobismal tablets. Every kit should have those! (Suggestion: there appeared to be a lot of room at the top of the pack as you were closing it. You might want to place your knife there. It would also allow for quick access to it!) I probably would remove a few items. I don't think I'd need that much wire, or nuts, screws, and solder! (I don't imagine I'd doing a lot of electoral work while trying to survive outside!) A little too much redundancy for me...I like trying to reduce the weight of my packs as much as possible.

[@tweezerjam]

I love the luxury items- those cards can be used in many ways. 👍🏼

[@keithdunlap]

Very cool. Obviously designed to provide everything one would need for any improvised fix or use. Not the thing itself but a way to improvise the thiing.

[@HeathInHeath]

The lack of a quality compass was the biggest disappointment. Overall, this looks like a very useful collection of tools and supplies. I wish you had included a link to the vendor page.

[@KitbashedSurvival]

Just google “acw Mac-Gyver kit”

[@cornpop7805]

I believe this is worth the money In addition to the contents, the graphical content sheets are worth their weight in gold. One should obviously reorder the kit to put all the medical items in one place. As well, the q-tips and razor blades, etc should be in bags for cleanliness. Add some toothpaste, more neosporin, and more water purification tablets and you've got a near perfect kit, for this size. I totally dig it!