Camping with Amazon's Cheapest Survival Kit: Any Good?

[@TAOutdoors]

To follow along on the journey of testing out various survival kits then take a look at the video playlist here: kzbin.info/aero/PLxnadpeGdTxAlCaBs5MW8cLSbRp8OFcO1

[@IronSharpensIron127]

I'm laughing because you said the knife might be illegal in your country and I'm sitting here watching your show as I clean my gun. I hope y'all eventually fight for y'all's God given right to protect yourselves. You have a great channel by the way. God bless Also a thing to question: do the people that commit these acts of violence care if a knife is illegal or not? I know here in the US the people committing crimes with guns do not care about the gun free zones. So how do I defend myself in a gun free zones? Also those serrated part of the knife is to make it easier to cut rope and cordage.

[@308dad8]

That knife you went on and on about is crap. It’s made from a blade design China couldn’t dupe anyone into buying because they are made of Chineseum “steel” and plastic. The serrated edge isn’t for sawing wood but for cutting things that a smooth edge doesn’t cut well. I never liked the serrated combination edges but I don’t make over knives either. It’s one of those knives that you see in the gas stations for $5 and they’re making $4+ off each one. The blade having a lock is a safety feature, as a boy in the Boy Scouts our pocket knives were required to have a locking blade. They didn’t want our blades closing on our fingers and cutting us up. I have a pocket knife that doesn’t have a lock, but I wouldn’t let a child have it for their own use because it’s easy to start the blade backwards when cutting things.

[@308dad8]

@@IronSharpensIron127Them criminals do care about gun free zones. They’re where ALL their attacks happen.

[@MalachiAyre]

Do you think you will ever go over a pack/kit that you would compile yourself? I would don't that very useful!!

[@Masked_One_1316]

54:34 yeah sounds like an excellent idea!

[@gizmocarr3093]

The serration part of the blade is not a wood saw, it is used best for cutting rope and woven materials like straps and vines.👍

[@parker9832]

Came here to say this. I’ve never thought of that part as a saw.

[@canis2020]

Don't forget Rapunzel hair.

[@TheSaneHatter]

Just to make the distinction clear, I own a Leatherman Xe6 multi-tool which has both straight-edged and serrated blades, separately, AND a saw.

[@scottwilliams1487]

Is that why it’s called a “Knife” and not a “Wood Saw” In a survival scenario with only that kit I could imagine that it’d do fine as a saw.

[@TheSaneHatter]

@@TAOutdoorsIt IS fair: it’s just a happy accident. We don’t mean to be know-it-alls, especially on YOUR channel. But sometimes we’ve all learned simple lessons a the hard way, and it’s natural to want to spare somebody that experience. 😉

[@ancientsouloutdoors4088]

In the US where this knife is perfectly legal (and you can buy practically anywhere), it's not really a saw. Those are serrations and are best for cutting course things like rope. Saves the fine edge for better slicing/cutting. Not a fan of it myself. That's why I have pocket saws when on short jaunts. But overall, they are fairly popular with the belt cutter and glass breaker. PS. When trying to baton with a folder, don't keep the blade locked open. Open it only half way. That saves wear on the hinge joint. Big fan of your channel. Especially your shelter and trailer builds. Keep up the awesome work!

[@darrinrebagliati5365]

Saves the lock as well.

[@KuronoCthulhu]

depends on the state, an officer in NJ may give you some trouble for it if you're not heading to or from camping. But yeah most places there's no real restrictions.

[@sassyvelvetvixen6645]

I would hesitate to baton at all with a folder. That's a last resort situation in my book. I was rooting to use the card knife as the striker on the fire steel or the bottle opener portion.

[@sefjet]

Excuse me, you really don't know how to use a wire saw???

[@markh5889]

They could have included a good Ferro rod instead of the bellows. Another kit not worth buying. Thanks for the demonstration.0

[@haalstaag]

That tourniquet is for gaining IV access and not stopping bleeding, I don't think you could get that tight enough to stop a catastrophic haemorrhage . Also, never use a tourniquet on a doubled boned part of the limb as it could make bleeding worse

[@TAOutdoors]

A friend of mine who is in the military mentioned this when I sent him a pic of it. Even when I tried it I thought there was definitely no way it would have enough strength but it’s better than nothing I suppose.

[@michaelellert4982]

Yeh I'm a combat medic. Thats for cannulation and drawing blood for testing. ​@@TAOutdoors

[@haalstaag]

@TAOutdoors the trouble is that it's like squeezing a hose. You could make the blood come out faster. My background is ex military and the last 30 years as a paramedic in London (retiring soon I hope)

[@shyowl3453]

It won’t stop blood flow since it can’t put pressure in the middle of the two bones, “high and tight” is the saying for a reason, I wouldn’t trust a cheap plastic buckle with my life though

[@SavaSVO]

Ещё ньюанс жгут на голую кожу не накладывают.

[@stippolyte]

Mike, one thing you didnt test is the box. Was it waterproof / showerproof / dustproof? to keep the contents dry. Spare room to take proper firesteel etc

[@achimklinkhammer_150]

Unfortunately I have to say: it is _not_ waterproof. I've tested it in a bath tube. _And_ : it is not the strongest one. One of the clips to close it broke off. For sure it was not my own kit! I would _never_ buy such a thing! 😉😎

[@skynet8574]

My brother got me a cheap kit like this the best part was the box i but my gun mags in for my truck gun

[@richardmacyczko1580]

I think the the sheath is the handle for the spork. The serrated part near the spork/knife is for getting the scales off of a fish and the knife would clean the fish. The part that you were trying to get a spark is a screwdriver. The serrated part of the pocketknife is for cutting rope.

[@lonnieadams7841]

You covered a lot that I was going to point out, except: The fork/spoon/knife combo is called a splayd. The holes in the splayd are for making a spear with the "cheap" cordage. The "cheap" cordage can also be used for a bow drill. The "antennae" is also used for a drinking straw, like when drinking from a seep well. The tan thing is used to hold your water bottle. The wire saw should be placed on a green branch to make a bow saw so it cuts easier and lasts longer. (I'm amazed by the amount of "survivalists" that don't know how to use it!"

[@richardmacyczko1580]

@@lonnieadams7841 Respect.

[@ReverendScottM]

@@lonnieadams7841 Also, the "bottle opener" on the splayed is hooking onto fish when you use it as a spear.

[@kamilstuchlik9529]

The little firestarter rod and striker on the paracord bracelet actually works pretty reasonably, you it was just used incorrectly it has a one sided serated "blade" which only properly works in one direction. Basicaly if he'd just flipped it 180deg lenghtwise it would give quite consistent sparks.

[@dh0073]

Yes the buckle thing is for a water bottle, I've got something similar on my hiking pack

[@RandomGreymane]

In theory it could also carry the emergency kit as the kit has a hanging loop on one end.

[@dh0073]

@@RandomGreymane so true bestie

[@Jimbo_Fett]

I think it’s essentially just a multi purpose quick release, anything with a lanyard or at least a lanyard loop.

[@Masked_One_1316]

@@RandomGreymane yeah! but really you could use it to hang anything you'd need in a pinch.

[@Masked_One_1316]

@@Jimbo_Fett exactly!

[@mrhalfstep]

The wire saw should be kept straight, not wrapped around the limb. That can best be done by using your folder to cut a sapling and then bend it into a bow and stick each end through one of the rings, thus creating a bow saw. Some cordage can be used to keep the rings in place or short slits can be cut into each end of the bow and the wire positioned in the slits with the rings outside the slits to prevent the wire from slipping through. They actually work quite well that way. In a pinch you can just keep your hands spread apart as possible, in front of you, holding the wire in a straight line. That is more difficult to do as the cut is attempted further and further above chest level. Perhaps the next time you use one of those wristband buckle ferro rods you can cut a shallow trough in a twig and lay the rod in it for support and to give you access to the entire length of the rod. An alternative method is to lay it on top of your finger, holding the end of it with your thumb, again, to give it more support. I couldn't always see how you were holding the striker, but when I could see it, it was backwards. BTW, the serrated edge of those strikers are mostly meant to GENTLY scrape off some ferro material into your tinder pile to help catch a spark. I think the sharp edge of the wallet tool's can opener would have made a better striker. The truth is, that box has so much empty space in it that there would be no excuse to not pack it with a lighter, a lens, larger ferro rod, a better space blanket, plenty of cordage, fishing line, terminal tackle, real compass, etc..etc..

[@AaronC.]

Ussually if you want to baton with a foldable knife you need to semi-fold the handle and the blade itself on a 90 degree angle, so that the force of the hit doesn't wreck your lock or any mechanism inside the knife.

[@chefinthesandbox4968]

The saw is best using as a bow saw, with a long bendy stick

[@TAOutdoors]

I saw a pic of them being used in this way. Going to try that next time 👍🏻

[@MyBeastStyle]

@@TAOutdoors If you saw the way you did, you need to make an obtuse angle like 160 degrees I recon to make it cut clean. Also on the tiny bracelet fire starter, I carry similar small piece on my knife like a tiny bit about 1 centimeter and I did light a fire couple of times with it. You just need to use the knife and some practice and all you need is a single spark. They aint bad at all.

[@DiabloOutdoors]

100% right

[@mandoc6249]

They really should call them bow saw wire blades or something to that effect because that’s really the only way to use them

[@mikeyoung9763]

A higher quality saw and the target held sturdy can go through a femur or tibia in seconds. Old school surgeons still use a gigli saw very effectively. Use all of your sawing "rules" and sawing might happen with the kit saw

[@mrhalfstep]

I've seen it generally recommended that you should use a folding knife in the half open position when batoning kindling. It is supposed to preserve the integrity of the pivot joint and the lock mechanism. I always do it, just in case. Doesn't really make it much harder.

[@wheelsinmotion91]

Wire saw works best if you keep it as straight as possible when sawing, not wrapped around the log, as that has a higher chance of snapping it. The paracord bracelet's striker is removable to make it more easily gripped, never knew the actual rod was removable lol. I just keep the rod in the bracelet, but take the striker out to strike it that way. Takes some practice to get proficient. The spork actually has jimping, which is basically just a thumb grip. You were right on the money with that water bottle belt clip lol. The survival card would be better utilized if you attached a handle.

[@Nembula]

It occurred to me that a meter long, or so sapling of a flexible nature would make the wire saw into a bow saw.

[@josephm6734]

Yeah, using the wire saw properly can cut wood really well.

[@lonnieadams7841]

That jimping actually serves another purpose, it's a fish scaler, atleast according to the kit description on Amazon. I went to the site to see if my thoughts on the holes in the splayd were correct. They're for creating a spear...lol

[@WiThErZ666]

Love the idea of testing out cheap survival kits and ending up with a "complete" mini survival kit. Cant lie though, there was mini saws, whistles and bottle openers up the wazoo when they couldve put in a folding saw and a decent little ferro rod. The one they provided was nearly just an afterthought!

[@ianmartin877]

With the wire saw your supposed to make a bow saw by putting each hope on the opposite end of a bendable stick .much easier that way

[@Daanlikkewaan]

Useful, thanks.

[@sefjet]

Or, at least, separating the hands as much as possible.

[@TAOutdoors]

I did do that in the next episode after this one 👍🏻

[@Dagon3369]

The pocket bellows does help to avoid a potential hazard of blowing on a fire: accidentally breathing in smoke. Early in the second season of Survivor, a contestant had to be evaced because he inhaled smoke while blowing on a fire, momentarily lost consciousness, and fell forward into the embers.

[@joewoodchuck3824]

Apparently, the people who inhale smoke aren't aware that you can inhale away from most or all of the smoke. Can you spell s-t-u-p-i-d?

[@Armand79th]

Please remember, when measuring a blade for the purposes of UK law.. it's the total blade length as exposed, not the cutting edge. So, from the end of the handle to the tip.

[@robrichardson5187]

The law states it is 'the cutting edge'

[@iainamurray]

@@robrichardson5187 Yet people have been prosecuted for carrying a butter knife. Wonder how they measured the cutting edge on that.

[@Stuart-er8qz]

Full length of the blade, not cutting edge.ATB👍👍👍​@@robrichardson5187

[@bobingledow7380]

@@robrichardson5187 Yes it does, but there was a legal case that changed that and established precedent (don't ask me for details).

[@ken-cs5uq]

Is the thing you know what is, could it be a sling for the torch?

[@OURBacon48]

These survival kit try out videos are fun

[@TAOutdoors]

Thanks, more to come 👍🏻

[@damogranheart5521]

I'd like something about that size to put in my 🎒 backpack! I'm from Northern Minnesota, USA.

[@paulmarren7970]

@@damogranheart5521 best put together yourself.

[@pyronymph-868]

The tan split clip is a water bottle holder. I carry mine on the shoulder strap of my backpack; helps counterweight the load.

[@AndrewBaker-w9i]

Always wondered if these kits would actually work so nice to see someone trying it in the field. Looking forward to seeing more of the same thing soon

[@TAOutdoors]

Thanks, me too. I’ve been curious about them for years. Already ordered 3 more (different ones) to try out.

[@McPellit]

The bracelet clip has a little door on its side that can be opened to gain access to a small storage space which can be used to stash the fishing kit

[@Grentastic]

The "tourniquet" is not. It's just an older cannulation tool, and will stop venous flow, but absolutely NOT stop arterial bleeding (which is what would be required in a tourniquet)

[@theun4giv3n]

The telescopic fire tube is great for keeping a fire going and not having to get your face in the smoke and really focuses your breath far more efficiently. Kept a group of us from getting hypothermia on a very wet and cold survival course at least twice. Definitively not a gimmick. I was the only one who had brought one and the rest of the team all bought one afterwards. It really works well.

[@Hephera]

24:42 the spikes on the spine of the knife/spork arent a saw, that's jimping. it's meant to give your thumb extra grip to not slip when youre pressing hard on the knife. also you dont need to hold the knife blade while using the spork, that's why it came with a sheath

[@ChimichangaGuy]

You guys have inspired me to get out in the woods with just an ax, knife and fire starter so I can learn how to make a shelter, fire, traps, baskets ect. I can't wait to bring my son on these adventures. Thank you so much!

[@TAOutdoors]

Awesome!

[@rogerwilco1777]

..add a Scotch Eyed Auger and you wont regret it.. even the cheap ones for around 20$ work fine.. Now you can make everything from chairs to shelters much sturdier when you drill and plug them

[@SlapStyleAnims]

Nice job bringing your son out there! Nice parenting!

[@samsmart1392]

@@rogerwilco1777even an auger drill bit with a socket on the hex shaft works well, especially if you also keep it in the car with an impact wrench for changing tires.

[@MLohmanMusic]

Please wear pants…

[@woodlandbiker]

At the end of the series you should put together your own survival kit from all the best bits from the kits you test.

[@TAOutdoors]

I think that’s exactly what I am going to do :)

[@Nyctophora]

Ooh good idea!

[@2DogsAndAMan]

The compass might have actually worked better if it were further from your phone. The smallest piece a metal will interfere with those button compasses. People use them and don’t realize that key rings and strikers that are attached actually interfere.

[@shanepowell4189]

I added a pocket bellows to my kit this year and find it very useful in the British Columbian rainforest. Not as important when you have a good source of dry wood, but if your kindling is wet or sub-par quality, it really helps to concentrate the heat and dry things out. Also great for blowing the embers back into flame, something you'd start to appreciate rather quickly if that sparker was your only fire starter!

[@cafn8ed74]

At least the knife is not an ultra-dangerous green knife. Edit: pleasantly surprised that the lock held up to some batonning.

[@bobmcelroy7289]

The serated portion on the sport knife is for your finger to put pressure on the knife blade. Use the sheath when using the spork. The blade on the flat pack is generally used to cut cordage.

[@marylastorina133]

Glad to see you are back in healthy mate, have a good day, hope to visit England soon

[@riuphane]

The card bit... I've got 2 of those for EDC. They aren't designed for survival as much as having lots of little tools that you might want/need in a pinch. Has helped me while at work or while out around town more than i expected...

[@alistairj4851]

I carry a Swiss Army Victorinox knife for the same reason.

[@robertr4193]

I think that the sheath for knife part the spork spoon think is intended to be used as a handle when using it as an eating utensil. I do think the wire saw would work better with a stick to make it into a bow type saw sense the trouble when using it as you did was the wire was having too much surface area bite to allow it to cut well. As a bow saw it would limit to amount of surface of the wire to contact the wood and allow it to clear the cut particles out of the cut better. Though to be fair I think they do demonstrate using it the way you attempted to use it.

[@Bachini]

Looking forward to seeing the next "survival kit testing" videos. But what if you used all the items? I mean, the cordage, the blanket, even undoing the paracord bracelet to set up a shelter, maybe... We usually keep saving those things for when we really need them and, most times, we don't get to know how useful they can be. Videos like that could be very helpful. Cheers!

[@24934637]

SERIOUS WARNING! That tourniquet is suitable for doing an IV injection, but no use whatsoever for stopping blood flow. I'm a former heroin addict and have plenty of experience of that sort of thing unfortunately! They break really easily if you try to make them tight. IF you want a tourniquet for stopping blood from a severe trauma you'll need one designed for that purpose with a locking windlass (Bar used to tighten it).

[@cynthiajarrell9640]

the compass you place on something that floats and it should point north in that little cutout. You can also put a couple of drops of water in the circle( tool needs to be on a level surface) , rub a pin or paper clip through your hair, place on water and the "pin" should point north.

[@DrSafely]

I love your content. The pocket Bellows has been a very useful tool for me. Please bring a list of what’s actually in the kit next time, the water bottle holder that you didn’t know what it was works very well. Maybe add suggested replacements for anything that doesn’t perform well. I also agree that every kit should have a simple Bic lighter and that the whistle was useless since there’s already two more in it.

[@TheMacabreGamer]

I'm glad this is going to be a series. I really enjoyed this episode.

[@kevwilliam]

I bought the exact same kit from amazon around 8 months ago, decent waterproof storage box, the knife was ace whilst it lasted but unfortunately the blade snapped off when preparing sticks/twigs for a fire, the one I purchased came with a fulsize firestick so wernt too bad, the plastic split ring/belt loop is to attach a water bottle to your belt/rucksack, could also be used to carry a torch if you have one the correct diameter, Great video loving the content thanks 😊

[@WvIENS]

i go camping often and carry a fixed blade with me in my gear all the time, they are always in my pack at the bottom or around the mid, but even though around camp its always on my belt, iv never been questioned or stopped by anyone over my fixed knives or axes while camping. there was a time i asked an officer while on my way and asked him he mentioned just as long as they are packed correctly and not easy accessible and kept used in the woods, you can carry a machete if needed. i think it generally comes down to common sense with camping and laws around knives

[@whereandbackagain7059]

The serrations are more helpful for cutting things like rope than as an actual saw.

[@Chris-p3u]

At 27:14 into video thats a tactical molle water bottle holder (16-16.9oz) but it doesn't hold newer mini cap water bottles common here in USA unless you wrap some narrow trimmed gorilla tape (or similar) around the holder ring for a better friction fit (make 1 or 2 "notch/keyways" with the tape, don't wrap the whole ring of the holder). For fatter plastic bottle heads I usually use a 3/16"-ish wide rubber band wrapped snug around the bottleneck with an S-biner clipped to the rubber band. Some elastic usb cable ties work good too. Thank you for this excellent KZbin channel!!!

[@janneheffler]

I find this kind of content interesting. It's cool to see if any low budget gear might be useful. I want to see more 😁

[@TAOutdoors]

Got 3 more kits on the way all different in their own right! Stay tuned…

[@SterlingBoyd]

One of my favorite reviews of gear. I appreciate your honesty and patience. You clearly take it serous and spend the right amount of time on stuff. Keep up the great work bro.

[@FreezyAbitKT7A]

the cable saws work if you remove the rings and make a crossbuck to mount it on and pull the saw tight... On the back of the spor nife... its a fish scaler

[@sonofagun9856]

always great to see a new video of yours, that ferrous rod was not surprisingly terrible, cheers sir

[@randalllybarger5625]

Bellows can be used to suck rain water out of pockets where it has collected.

[@stephanygates6491]

Wire saws work best the straighter you can keep the wire. Making a bowsaw of it should give good results. 1st time using any striker, identify which side has the burr.

[@jamesellsworth9673]

Those wire saws are generally ineffective cutting tools. The toothed section on the survival card is also intended for cutting rope.

[@TheSaneHatter]

Not only do I understand that there are wide differences in quality between manufacturers, when it comes to those wire saws, but also that they have to be used “correctly”: according to Lofty Wiseman, who helped popularize them, the saw has to be kept completely straight when cutting, and is often stretched across two ends of a bent branch, rather like a hacksaw.

[@henny896k]

​@@TheSaneHatterI came here to say this, the saws are useless when used with hands....but making a bow saw is a winner.

[@SavaSVO]

Вообще-то это пила Джигли, предназначена для перепиливания костей при ампутация. Просто из-за компактности её туда засунули, если не принципиально ровный отпил, ножом и колотушкой будет проще

[@bobclark7211]

Great video Mike! I appreciate you actually tried out most of the items and showed us pass and fails Keep it up

[@marthathompson2012]

Love it! I’d be very interested in seeing how other kits fare!

[@TAOutdoors]

Coming soon!

[@geeeeeeeezzzzzzzzzz]

@@TAOutdoors Are we there yet? How we gonna sleep now? Just kidding. Sweet survival kit dreams.

[@ajhdz7137]

Thanks for the review! I've looked to purchase a kit like this. Your trial is very useful. The "bottle opener" on the survival bracelet is also a hex wrench. The removable striker seems meant to use the back square side against the rod.

[@TheSaneHatter]

I remember a spate of videos similar to this one a few years ago, testing out another survival kit from Walmart. If your experience here is any indication, it seems that the quality of components is getting incrementally better. Otherwise, my thoughts are these: 1) I have a little flashlight, similar to that one, and in that case, the clip broke clean off, so you’re right to be suspicious. However, the light itself still works, even after a couple of years. 2) Elsewhere on Amazon, it’s possible to find a survival bracelets that have all the components you found, plus a wire saw inside the bracelet itself. If you go for one with enough ratings, you may be able to replace or upgrade the two lease satisfactory items at a stroke.

[@roscogamingtv]

Imagine this, you just bought this kit from Amazon. You go out with your UK illegal knife to do some bushcrafting. You try to cut some wood with the wire saw but it breaks so you make do with the knife and try to snap some kindling. The blade comes loose while you're batoning some wood, but you think it's ok. It's getting dark and cold so you need to get a fire going. You wrap yourself in the mylar blanket but it's cheap and doesn't keep you warm at all. You try to use the crappy ferro rod on the bracelet, and because you're trying too hard to get a spark the knife breaks and you slice your radial artery open. You go to apply the torniquet but it isn't a proper torniquet so you continue bleeding out, you remember there's a first aid kit in the car so you take the torch and head out to the car in the dark. The torch randomly stops working, you trip on a tree root and pass out. It's game over, all thanks to that cheap chinese survival kit. It's worrying when the most useful thing in that bit of kit is the spork 😅

[@TAOutdoors]

😂

[@Beats-sx1ch]

Murphy's law run rampant. Darwin awards flood forth

[@VadimAndreyev]

I love how positive you are about this kit

[@debradaniels936]

Yes do test more please. So interesting. X

[@sitbone3]

Yes, the brown, round clip is for hanging a plastic water bottle from your belt or Molly backpack. I have two of them and they work well for easy accessibility to your water.

[@alistairj4851]

I thought this was really quite interesting. After your testing I have concluded that I would likely have more use of the case than most of the items in it 😄 Have you any updates as to when the TA axe will be back in stock please?

[@TAOutdoors]

The case is the best part of it!! Haha it’s actually really quite well made. Yes I will be sending an email update out on my website in September for an axe update.

[@TheMacabreGamer]

That it is for bottles, yes. You can attach it to your belt or a bag. I've been using one for years and are very useful and strong.

[@kennithobrien8104]

The toothed section on the "spknife" is a FISH SCALER!

[@darrenalden8261]

And the holes provided are for a make shift harpoon

[@darrenalden8261]

And the whistle sheath is a handle for while your eating which I see he didn't use.

[@tamasmogyorosi]

3 whistles, 3 knives, 3 bottle openers, a piece of aerial, a comically unusable saw, fire kit and fishy tackle, 21 quids for a_minimal_survival_set_(and for a usuable - but UK illegal - folder, that is nearly correct just like the torch that is lighting - important! -, also the clever EDC card which is lost in the woods). Somebody somewhere earns good money. We should deeply appreciate this test that confirms our belief in quality products (which are really hardly recognizable oftentimes - the opposite is more easier and edifying as well). I'm far to being a brand ambassador but I think the majority of these functions are easily acceptible with a single, smartly choosen SAK model (and some intelligence) - for an approximately same price, in quite massive material and assembly quality, in your smallest pocket - instead of a luncheon box size. Hard work, great job (_again_), good fun, thanks, Mike!

[@darrinrebagliati5365]

Spnife 'saw' is likely meant to be a fish scaler. Here in Canada the folder is found at gas stations w Zombie themes on them( as well as other things: Army, Navy, mechanic, etc) for $10-20

[@bobmcelroy7289]

The flatpack is more for "urban" use. The belt loop round loop is a bottle holder. Mine broke on a backpacking trip to test the kit. As did the wire saw. A friend told me the wire saw was best used as a horizontal cut. The Ferro rod, I found, worked better with a carbon blade, than the metals in the pack.

[@mueford]

" If it pleases the Crown , I'd like to butter my toast "

[@mueford]

the " saw bit " saved a child from being hopelessly entangled in a horrific - thorn bush

[@ADI121195]

Always good to watch review videos testing kit for all situations

[@bjorn564]

Citronella doesn't work on bugs, you can use DEET.

[@thecrashwizrd8188]

Deetz Nuts 😂

[@boatman1854]

I have a couple of those survival wrist bands. If you use the steel correctly, it works really well. I don't know what he was doing, but it is really simple. Bend into a "U" shape, slide the blade along the rod. Should throw sparks forward. You don't even have to take the blade out of the band, and I find it works best if you don't. He seemed to be using the screwdriver/bottle opener side instead of the blade, and sliding it sideways at that.

[@themilitaryman1793]

I can 100% guarantee that if you actually use that tourniquet in an emergency, it will brake.

[@Pkou]

I've seen a lot of gimmicks and stuff over the years but that spork-knife-whistle is actually pretty sweet.

[@TAOutdoors]

It pleasantly surprised me that did!

[@josephdavis2773]

Pro Tip...if you are going to demonstrate how to use the contents of a survival kit, it would be helpful to know how to use those items properly. Splitting wood like that is a good way to break your knife. Turn it over and rest the back of the blade on the stump and then hit the wood you are splitting to drive it down on the knife. If you are using a wire saw like that, prop one end of the stick you are cutting over that other stick in the background, then rest your foot on it. That creates the grip to hold the stick and also bends it towards the cut and keeps the wire saw out of the dirt. Nothing dulls a cutting tool like dirt. BTW, that serrated part of the knife blade is not a saw, don't dull it up cutting wood. Use the wire saw for that. Instead of using two short sticks to pull the wire saw around the tree, use one long flexible stick and make a bow saw. It'll cut easier that way. Back to the bracelet, it's not really a "bracelet" although you can use it like that. It's better to simply wrap it around your belt or the shoulder strap of a backpack so you can see the compass or blow the whistle but expect that you will need to unravel it to use a a rope not a fashion accessory. On to the spork-knife, that edge on the back of the knife is to give your thumb more grip when cutting, it's not meant to be a saw or cutting edge. You don't have to hold the knife edge while eating....remember the sheath it came in?? Yes, the tan strap is for holding a water bottle. The loop goes around your belt and the ring around the neck of a water bottle.

[@HKB-1]

Always great to hear some common sense.

[@whosjulez1157]

Seconded. Not his best prepared video

[@info-p7m]

Crazy great quality of content Mike! I hope you actually go long way with this channel!

[@fearthehoneybadger]

My problem with the cheap stuff is that it is fine for the city where it can be quickly replaced if it fails, but if it fails in the sticks or in a disaster, you are out of luck.

[@WSallai]

The spork/knife combo with the holes allows you to use it to be fastened the tip of a spear with the cordage or the bracelet. Yes, the split ring clip is for the neck if a plastic bottle.

[@jeffdesotell]

When you're splitting wood, get your blade started and then flip the whole piece upside down and use your club part to hit the bottom of what you're splitting that way it's more sturdy

[@claudeclawsonne4510]

The 'bottle opener' on the spork/knife thingy is meant to be a 'gut hook' or small blade meant to help you skin and open up a carcass.

[@JackyHeijmans]

You could put some moss or something on the raised bed, to make it more comfy, I have seen guys do that. Thanks for the review, it was funny to watch! I found the prices on Amazon go up and down all the time, it is often worth checking or it goes cheaper.

[@Oxy_Cotton]

Valcro split ring maybe for carrying the torch? Saw teeth on back of spork and side of card descaling fish? There's already enough cutting tools in the kit!

[@trmpkme]

Love the video. Glad you actually used the tools and not just showing them. Thanks.

[@inasatok]

That tourniquet kit is what we use when taking blood sample, if you pull it a bit too hard it breaks I doubt it could completely cut of the blood flow, maybe if you tie a knot on it and not using the plastic lock.

[@stephanygates6491]

The direction ancillary indicator (placed on a flat surface) is a well for a few drops of water onto which you may place a piece of magnetized wire and line the notch up with N to get your bearings. As it is, it's a graduated hole in the tool. Batonning with a folding knife is best (for the knife) if it's at 90 degrees when you strike it. Saves that loose joint further stress.

[@Anjebel]

I've got a similar bracelet but it was the coating that stopped the sparks. It works beautifully now the coating is gone. Mind you the Faris rod is very small. Still being so small it produces many hearty sparks each strike. The spnife is a cool little tool.

[@Andox3x3x3]

You can also use your pointer and your thumb on both hands put together to make a small star shape for a handy dandy finger bellows! 😊

[@cazzaa4982]

Always enjoy your videos but really liked this one, taking a practical look at survival kits. Would love to see more.

[@johngoodin3445]

One thing nice about the stricker is it can be really nice mini saw to get into a package. It can cut thru The tape on most cardboard boxes rather quickly.

[@TENGILL]

The belt clip, is for carrying a "PET", plastic bottle from the shops. You split it, like you did and place it around the top, locking it secure. The multitool card has a flathead screwdriver on one of the corners. What do you think about changing one of the end loggs on the bed, to a thicker one, to use as an headrest?

[@doreebardes5537]

Thanks - very informative! My one quibble with the really quite excellent torch was that it had no red-light option, which is great in the woods so you can use a light without destroying your night vision. And i agree that the pocket bellows was a waste of space - better to put in a good reliable fire steel than that rubbish.

[@warren6899]

From South Africa place both thumb tips and both forefinger tips together, to form a small Squarish hole in the middle. Blow through the hole and direct.the airstream to the bottom of the fire..... Works brilliantly to get air into the starting flame without overpowering the flame with air. And blowing the embryo fire with wind..... heat / fuel / oxygen. Too much wind , removes the heat and also contributes to putting the fire out

[@andreisechi7871]

I recommend fixing the extremities of the saw lace to a wooden bow ,that way you have more leverage ,the saw Will stay rigid and expose Just the minimal surface of cutting without other traction forces against yourself or creating around the log . Great video . Sometimes apart for the tactical BS , a cheap kit could be Better than a micro super expensive kit

[@Ken-tq5dz]

The fire bellow is the MVP of my camping trips.

[@PsylomeAlpha]

the dull (not sharp) bumps on the base of a blade along the spine aren't usually intended as saws, they're there to provide better grip, but sometimes they're too aggressive. I find they're better to have very shallow grooves between them than to have wide valleys like on the spnife

[@Countryboy071]

Allways look forward to the videos mike, never disappointed 👍

[@user-wt8jp4qx6l]

One thing that little section of 'saw' (serrated) edge on the knife is good for (possibly the only thing!) is for carefully slicing tomatoes for one's sandwiches :)

[@TdogGaming_Vods]

holy heck soo glad i got recommended your channel/this video ive always been into camping/outdoorsy type videos, definetly wanna get out and go camping next year

[@onegoodlung6584]

The serrated part of your spork is a fish descaler, and the hook is a gut hook, by the looks of the blade on it also, looks sharp enough for "butchery" as you probably wouldn't want tree sap in you food from the "big" knife

[@Sam-iw6te]

A bit late to comment, but I have the same kit, except I got it when they came in the molle weave pouches. I did get the additional lures and weights in the kit, and I got some medical stuff as well. Everything else was the same, except I didn't get the telescoping billow or the utensils. In my opinion I think the best items in the kit were the paracord, the pouch/container, the blanket and the multi tool card. I was very underwhelmed by the knife, but that might just be because in the U.S. for $20 USD you can get a folding knife made of D2 steel from any hardware store and it'll last you forever, whereas the Amazon knife will only really last for a single day of hard use. It's also tacky looking lol I think if they included butterfly bandages, a book of matches, a spool of poly line and a full ferro rod it'd be a genuinely good kit for the purposes of surviving a catastrophic event or rescue. But ultimately I took the pouch and repacked it with my own stuff

[@BrendonakaShanks]

I am somewhat skeptical about these cheap survival kits. Would be good to see more content on them in the future. I have looked at them on Amazon, but I am not fully convinced yet. Thanks for making the video, it does help me see how they are.

[@TRIUMVIRATEMEDIA]

Great video! I would definitely love a series. Im in the US and looked at survival kits on amazon and found this kit, you'll be glad to hear there is a full size fire steel now.

[@jonathanbennison9220]

37.57 Good news... When you remove the less than effective ferro... You have space for a modest ferro, some matches, some fishing bits, and maybe even that lighter.

[@MarkusMöttus-x7j]

If you don't want to absolutely annahilate the locking mechanism when batoning wood keep the blade half folded at 90° and put the handle against the material and whack away! Also I would rather put together my own "survival" kit because a proper survival kit MUST have at the least matches or even better, wind/waterproof matches otherwise it's useless in my book! Love your content Mike, cheers from Sweden 🇸🇪 😊 Laws are like locks, they only keep honest people honest.. 🙃

[@AirdrieRambler]

All in all, for £20 that wasn't a bad little haul, with some items which are genuinely useful. The container looked useful enough, I was going to buy something similar and that alone was around £4. A pocket bellows is around £5, and that knife would no doubt sell for a few quid as well. I'm not of the opinion that a survival kit on its own is a viable survival strategy, but as a receptacle for handy odd's and ends it gets a thumbs up. Thanks for the video.

[@chaddelong6795]

27:03 the clip is for hooking it to the neck of a bottle as a holder