Winter Camping, My Sleep Gear Part One M.S.S.

[@reid3175]

Could you leave a link or some in the comments to that awesome rain jacket hoodie thing you have on in this video I love it

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

I got it off Sportsmens guide but they have been sold out for awhile. You can also Google "olive drab military pullover anorak" Heres the olive drab www.sportsmansguide.com/product/index/new-us-military-surplus-anorak-field-jacket?a=1744134 They now have a multi cam version www.sportsmansguide.com/product/index/us-military-surplus-mens-ocp-camo-anorak-jacket-new?a=1869236&pm2d=CSE-SPG-15-PLA&PLA&Google&CI&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIluD38IfO1QIVSCSBCh3JUwEyEAYYASABEgISLfD_BwE

[@reid3175]

Thanks!

[@KeikoFXDesigns]

Oh yeah sure is an awesome jacket!

[@SouthernPatriot1]

Reallybigmonkey1 like to order from there, too. Some good prices and some not so much but they definitely have a lot of versatility military issued items. Where do you buy most of your USGI? I’ve found a few online but most of ours that’s close has closed :( or the ones that are still opened are price gouging...anyway tfs your MSS...

[@rodgerwittmann]

I agree and also the last army hoodie thing that you put on in your bag! thank You!

[@MrBomb-rj7mr]

Man, this dude has tips and tricks for everything! And he's still so humble. I freakin' love this guy.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thank you my friend!

[@MrBomb-rj7mr]

@@Reallybigmonkey1 You're welcome! :D Oh, hey, do you mind if I ask right quick how tall you are? I've been looking into buying one of these MSS setups, but I'm not sure if I'd fit at 6'2", and I've been unable to find one of the XL versions for sale.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

@@MrBomb-rj7mr I'm 5' 11". If you're 6' 2" definitely wait on an XL version, you won't like the standard version

[@MrBomb-rj7mr]

@@Reallybigmonkey1 I appreciate you very much! Enjoy the rest of your day. :)

[@CrankyPantss]

David, there's one thing you don't have to worry about: your videos are never boring. Thanks for sharing this with us.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Always great to hear that and I'm happy you like em so much! Thanks for watching

[@AclockworkPurple]

I appreciate your time doing these videos. Not only do you pass along some great tips but you get people to think and develop the confidence to try out their own ideas. Cheers!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

I'm always happy to share Chris! Thanks for watching

[@jamesallen9054]

David, don't let the people who always have something to say about the way you do things. You are my favorite camping guru. That's what you are a guru. Anybody can buy a 600-1000 dollar tent or hammock, shake it while it sets itself up and have imagination. You are actually showing people how to use anything to make it in the wild. Instead of them criticizing they could think, hey that's a good idea. They may not always have their expensive equipment. Heck, you can't even buy a green pad like you have. I bet if you added a little Velcro to seal the top where you stuff your coats and stuff you could sell those by the hundreds. Keep on keeping on and I'll keep on watching. I live in SC. Jim

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks for the comments and words of support Jim. Man I have no idea why some folks react to what all I do in such a way. Take care and Thanks for watching

[@noncorporeal1024]

Wow, simply amazing - even at 0145 hours, after a fifteen hour workday at age 66, this was the best part of my day. I enjoyed all 49 minutes and fifteen seconds. Thank you so very much.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

You are very welcome Michael and I'm glad you liked it that much!

[@beerhunter272]

I recently had a 3x3 ground tarp made. One side is a waterproof camo material, and the other side is a blaze orange nylon. The orange side makes it easier to see all of your gear. It can be used as a ground cloth/tarp to set your pack's contents on and a signal device. Good video Dave!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

I love the sound of that! I've always liked to have something to unload my pack onto. I'm glad you liked the video and thanks for watching

[@anthonymorelli67]

Again I am astounded by how creative and how much forethought that you put in to all the gear that you put together.👍👍👍

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Anthony! Man I'm constantly thinking about gear and how to use it. Thanks for watching my friend

[@williamtoth6284]

thanks Dave I don't think there is another vedio That one can learn more about camping than yours. All your tips you have tested and found to work. None better. Thanks. Well done! You are the master .

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Fantastic to hear that William!

[@Jon6429]

Good video for the newbies and nice to see you enjoying yourself, have a great 2017:) Tip#1 always take a dump before getting in for the night, because there's nothing worse in the morning when your all warm and cosy wondering if you just passed some really bad gas or a change of underwear is rapidly needed. Tip#2 don't put your hand down there to check!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Both very good advice! LOL. Thanks for watching my friend!

[@christianpalmer]

Lol

[@martlewis]

​@@Reallybigmonkey1😅

[@dfgdfbsdfvv832]

for direct ground sleeping, i would always use my foampad with a tin foil reflective side and a good thick bed of pine branches. maybe just a bed of small treees if theres no pine treees.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Sounds like a good set up

[@pamelafrancis6086]

I'm glad this video came up, I am in the process of building a sleep roll. I love the way you go into detail of the material. The hard part is getting out in the morning when your oh so warm and cozy..

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Lol, I agree. Getting out in the morning is horrible. Thanks for watching Pamela

[@wes4139]

Your videos are like camping with a happy friend, one who is a pleasure to be with. Thanks again. Wes

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Always great to hear that Wes and I'm happy you like the way I do things. Thanks for watching

[@garrettjacob7572]

Thank you so much By far THE MOST HELPFUL winter camping video Thank you thank you

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thank you Garrett! I'm glad you liked it that much. Thanks for watching

[@jamesallen9054]

And you remind me of my grandfather. The nicest guy. Could do anything. He turned an old Divco chicken truck which looks kinda like a bread truck into a motor home. We would pull into campgrounds and people would actually want to buy it. It have a bed, a shower, sink, refrigerator, stove, sitting area cabinets, ect. It had it all. Keep on. Jim

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Now thats cool! He sounds like one smart guy!

[@손님-i9l]

Dave, thanks for sharing all the details. i love your practical knowledge based on real experiences. Doug from Houston

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Doug! I'm glad you liked it and I'm always happy to share. Thanks for watching

[@chrisdksherman]

Great video, per usual, David. You said a couple things that I rarely hear anyone say, but are really on point: 1. Air out your clothes in the morning. Its great for you and your comfort, and is good for the clothes. 2. Thermal shock - If it isn't an emergency situation, then exposing your self briefly to the cold while changing clothes really does increase circulation and ups your metabolism; making you warmer in the long run. I really like the vinyl mat you made. Half the reason I watch your videos (other than your great attitude) is the fact that you aren't afraid to make items, test them, and show us your successes and failures. Oh, and my last bit of input, the cordless mic really does sound better. However, your normal set up work well.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Brother, I'm glad you liked it. I try and put out the most helpful information I can. I also love making what gear I can! Thanks for watching Chris

[@jackflash6670]

I really enjoy your videos because of your down to earth, common as an ole shoe demeanor and sincerity. You'd be welcome in my camp anytime, because you are you. Keep 'em coming "KZbin" belongs to people like you..

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thank you my friend, I'm glad you like the way I do things, Im just plain ole me. Thanks for watching

[@jackflash6670]

You are "Right-On" Salute !

[@Traveler1226]

Dave you make a great point about drying out your bag the next morning. Layers will never fail you. Great lesson. Thanks again Dave.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Brother, I'm glad you liked it. Yep, ya gotta keep your bedding dry to stay warm. Thanks for watching

[@vagabond4621]

Thanks for taking the time to make and share this video. I find it very informative and will likely utilize some of the modifications you recommend. The MSS is a very affordable sleep system that allows us the ability to enjoy being outdoors in any type of weather and I'm always looking for ways to push the envelop for this system.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

You are very welcome David and I'm glad you liked it. As far as I can tell, theres no better bang for the buck than the MSS when it comes to cold weather. Use one then try my mods and you wont believe the improvements! Thanks for watching

[@bubbablanding6084]

"I ain't got a clue what this stuff is but it works so I use it"....I like this guy, he's all about function over style.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Lol, I don't worry about the technical aspects. Thanks for watching Bubba

[@Darignobullseye]

Thank you for the great tips. This really helped. I'm still learning. Great video as usual.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

You are very welcome and I'm glad you liked it and found it helpful. Thanks for watching

[@patmaher8583]

Great advice. When I was in the service I had an extreme cold sleeping bag that was water proof outer shell. Sleep in snow and rain with nothing but the bag and always woke up dry but the bag was wet on the outside. Sad to say it was stolen.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Ah man! I hate to hear it was stolen!

[@GruntProof]

Great video man! I've used the MSS in some of the worst environments. Many people don't realize that most of us (soldiers) are also sleeping in thick thermal clothes and all. Many times I would change into my uniform for the next day, which was dry, but also so I didn't have to change in the morning while freezing. Also, that clean uniform just added one extra layer.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks! I'm glad you liked it and man its always great to hear from true experience!

[@GruntProof]

@@Reallybigmonkey1 anytime brother, keep bringing the awesome videos!

[@peggysueaustinmcdaniel2590]

Dave, I feel I am listening to Jeff Foxworthy when I listen. You laugh is contagious. Thank you for all your video's! We ladies young and old (I am the latter) love you laugh, your grin is winning. Take care and God Bless you. I love as you put it 'cheap' guys my husband has the market on that. But he has taken such good care of our family.

[@BumbleBeeJunction]

Another great video... I'll admit that when you were completely in your system wiggling around, I was waiting for you to pop out and announce "I'm a beautiful butterfly !!!" Other than that, some good common sense tips there... Thanks for sharing !

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

LOL! Brother once Im wiggled in, I aint getting out too soon! I'm glad you liked it. Thanks for watching Brother

[@BumbleBeeJunction]

I know the feeling well... In Scouting, I got several "Polar Bear" awards - which are given for a weekend camp out where the temp did not go above 32 degrees the entire weekend (so if the days were below 32, you can imagine the nights)... Those that think your sleep set up is complex need to understand that cold weather sleeping is an art form... LOL

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

LOL, man it is an art form in a way! I got one polar badge with the scouts when it never got over 30 on a trip once. Man that was a cold weekend.

[@17025601]

Head cover: plus. Shemagh: absolute plus everywhere. Worthwhile instructions. Thanks.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, I'm glad you liked it all. Thanks for watching

[@sunshine-nu1df]

almost as many tips there as giggles. a real feel good video. thank you from England, tim

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

I'm glad you liked it. Thanks for watching Tim

[@user-1A-2A]

First time bivouacking with the military, i thought i would be smart and use one of those mylar emergency style blankets to stay warm at night. Nice hand warmers near my feet. I was all set. Huge mistake. I woke up completely soaked from the moisture of my body all night. It was like a rain forest under that mylar blanket. Getting out of the rack in the morning was disturbingly cold and clammy. I had no dry long underwear for the day or uniform because we would roll our pants and blouse to put in the bottom of the sleeping bag to keep the spiders and other unsavory creatures out of our clothing. Lesson learned: Mylar blankets do not breath and defeat the entire purpose of a sleep system. Love your vids Dave!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks for sharing that Chris and I'm glad you like the videos!

[@TressaZimmerman]

Great looking sleep system. My partner and I have been contemplating doing some winter camping. Now we know a better way of doing it. Thanks

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, I'm glad you liked it. Now y'all know so now y'all gotta go! LOL. To me, hot summer camping is miserable. Nothing like a campfire and a thick bag or bivy in the cold. Thanks for watching

[@mikecarter1774]

Thanks, I really enjoyed David's 10-Layer Burrito. Looks super warm. Great timing also. NC covered in snow while watching video. LOL

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

LOL, man it is toasty warm! Take care and Thanks for watching Mike

[@LeeRalph100]

Good Video...I get warmed up spending 20 minutes trying get all my zippers zipped up on my Military Sleep System LOL THanks for sharing your sleep setup!!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Lee, I'm glad you liked it. LOL, man I hear ya on them zippers! Thanks for watching

[@DansEverythingOutdoors]

David, Thanks for the video. I have been playing with several sleep systems lately. This was good information. LOL. I am over 50 now also and I like being warm and comfortable too.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

You are very welcome and that's cool you've been experimenting!

[@rob4272]

Thanks brother! we are getting snow now in NC!! Some great ideas in this video, take care!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Enjoy your snow brother and I'm glad you liked it. Thanks for watching

[@wayman29]

Hey great video! Thanks for taking the time! I have used the field bag and a poncho liner on the inside. Love the poncho liner also in the hammock.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, I'm glad you liked it. Man I love poncho liners! I have three of em. Thanks for watching

[@wheelsgonewild1286]

Another great video. Thank you so much Dave.It does get so much colder here where I live in Ontario, Canada.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

You are very welcome Brother and I'm glad you liked it. Oh man I know it gets cold cold up there! Thanks for watching

[@wheelsgonewild1286]

Always. You rock my friend.

[@dr.rongoldstein1633]

Little thing is a cord lock. It sends " cold shivers" up my spine when I watch your great videos. Tx so much.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Yep, names slip my mine. Funny thing, I ordered a whole bag of cord locks about a month ago for projects and the name already slipped my mind! Thanks for watching Dr. Ron!

[@rachavya]

The specification for the vinyl mat (especially mil thickness) would be appreciated, as well as suggestions where to buy it. I agree with all your logic. In fact, the "ultralight" people have already concluded that a down blanket is more weight/heat-efficient than a sleeping bag (a blanket contributes no excessive weight that only gets to be smushed into a state of ineffectiveness).

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

All I know is that mat is 30 MIL thick. I have no idea where to buy it because I found it being used as a pallet liner on a construction site. I get a lot of materials that way. I have heard them going to blankets and even some sleeping bags having pockets on the bottom for pads instead of insulation. Amazing how when insulation is crushsed under your back it just doesnt work. Take care and Thanks for watching

[@briannemorna4268]

love your videos , I grew up in Paulding Co Transplanted to Tn 24 years ago... You make me miss GA. Keep up the great videos, You are really helpful for real life camping for poor girls.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Brinaae, I'm glad you like em all. Tenn. is a pretty nice place tho, my brother and sister were born there! Thanks for watching

[@haysd2you]

So clever! Ingenious. I am so glad I watched this video.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks! I'm happy you liked it my friend!

[@SniffBackBetter]

This looks like a great system. The shemagh to catch the exhaled moisture is genius.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks! I'm glad you liked it

[@klausappel9389]

you are a kind hearted southern gent. If your kind was all that survived the "big one"...why then I know I would feel safe and welcome

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thank you Klaus!

[@TheWtfnonamez]

Brilliant philosophy mate. I think that 90% of camping is your sleep system and your water supply. Everything else is details. The fact you pack a shemagh is even more kudos. I ALWAYS camp with a shemagh. Its basically 50 tools in one. Its a bandage, a hat, a sunscreen, a face mask, a towel, and as I recently found... its the thing you use to mop out condensation in your tent. There is a reason why special forces adopted the shemagh scarf after working in the middle east. Its basically a tool that has endured for thousands of years.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks! I'm glad you liked it and thanks for the comments! I love my Shemaugh!

[@HamsterLife_EnglishLearning]

Winter is here and it is 11 fahrenheit here now, with the wind chill it is 0 F right now. Going to cast this to my tv with my bacon and eggs soon. Your mat at the top where it is double can be stuffed with dry leaves for a pillow. I see you had a better plan with it after I typed it. I usually type as I go along with the video. Wow that looks super comfortable. Super smart idea on the (blue) partial mat to keep up the bivy. You just made your own bivy tent doing that. This was a super fun, educational video to watch. You know when you watch something and you want MORE? Well this was too short. I can't wait for part 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7......lol. I wonder if you would have enough battery life for 2-3 days recording without the sleeping time of course lol to keep recording. I meant without recording sleeping time. But that would be nice too! Oh I guess I'm expecting too much lolol. Live feed that is what it would be called. Camping video's are so addicting. Though you make it more fun with your humor, facial expressions, patients, communicative, funny personality. Your a hoot to watch and listen to. You could make a killing on audio books. Thanks for being on here and giving us all on here such enjoyment.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Oh yes, winter is here! I guess in certain situations that head box could be stuffed with leaves but like you said, ah now you see! Its a great way of having a coat handle and dry when you gotta get up and go at night. I'm glad you liked it and what all I do. Take care and Thanks for watching

[@PurplePixie333]

Jude W I agree he would be epic in audio books!!!

[@JBreeze4598]

Hi Dave, I've been going back and watching older videos, and this was another fun one. after I saw it, I stared looking for a Foil Backed Survival blanket with a full zipper, and found one. The only thing you could have done on this video for me was started YELLING for Nick at the very end. Thanks again for you time, and trouble.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Hello Josh and I'm glad you liked it. You found a zippered survival blanket? I honestly didn't know they still made them. What name is it sold under?

[@JBreeze4598]

@@Reallybigmonkey1 SE Survivor Series ShelterMe Sleeping Bag/Ground Cover/Shelter - EB5985-SB1-BL Amazon

[@inthenameofjustice8811]

People wanting a heavy duty vinyl to make one of these mats could check out their local garden centre for a pond liner. I used to make ponds for people in their back gardens here in the UK and the vinyl used is incredibly strong and UV protected.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thats a great tip my friend!

[@maxallister66]

Thanks for sharing another great video Dave. I'll swear that if necessity is the mother of invention, your its daddy.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

You are very welcome Max and I'm glad you liked it. LOL, Daddy of invention! Thanks for watching

[@virginiacopeland108]

Hi, Dave... It was about 13 Degrees during the night here in Southern Oregon and cold enough inside our abode to chatter teeth and for an old Texan ( I was just being discharged from Viet Nam about the time you were taking your first steps) that's more cold than I ever want! I have my MS System, but I would'nt be out in this weather by choice for anything in the world. It's not a question of weight, cause I still carry a 40 to 45 lb. pack (need a few comforts) and used to run 18 miles with full 782 gear on before they would let us have breakfast (Boy, I'm glad those days are over with...) I'm just not prepared these days to even do more than short hike in this amount of cold and snow, plus, Virginia hardly goes outside during conditions like this. I'm impressed at your modifications (outside my modest ability to purchase or make.) Once again you're my hero of invention!!! Thanks for sharing, Clark

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

13 F is pretty cold. Here in Georgia we got down to 21 F. Thats pretty cold for here. I dont mind hiking or camping in cold weather, rain is what I cant stand. Too heavy a pack aint no big deal either with as short a hikes as I go on. Take care and Thanks for watching Clark

[@johns7322]

It feels like I'm right there with you whenever I watch your videos. You're not even remotely old.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Always great to hear that John!

[@ediesawyer4868]

You always make the most enjoyable videos. Can't wait for part 2.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Edie! See ya in part 2

[@BK-vh3do]

I used this kind of material making Semi-truck weather fronts for the radiators and I got it where u buy sails for sailboats and ship upholstery. Love that stuff. I did sew it on my Kenmore sewing machine (30 years ago) I sprayed the thread spool & bobbin with w-d 40 and lossened the bobbin so it moved freely.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Really? Now thats very cool!

[@MadDogSurvival]

Wow that's brilliant! I want that set up on my bed!...... but as much as I respect you, and love your videos doing that in the night and when it's pissing down (as usual here in the uk) would be challenging at least! IMO the golden rule here is always insulate your self from the ground! Priority number one! Then on is a case of layers and layers! For a survival situation anyway! Brilliant video as always and thank you! Very best wishes to you mate

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks man, I'm glad you liked it. Well, I am pretty insulated from the ground here. I have under me a vinyl mat, goretex bivy, air pad and a sleeping bag. Thats four layers so its good here. Too many layers on top to list. LOL. As far as rain or night time, if I ever set up after night, I always set up a ridgeline to hang a lantern on. Or to hang a tarp over if its raining.Thanks for watching

[@MrBrettMaverik]

Thanks for sharing.. I will make my sleep system as close to yours as possible.

[@jtsoutdoorsandmore8136]

great video brother . fire can be your best friend or your worst enemy . there's a lot of benefits to fire but depending on your situation it can give you away and everyone for miles will know your exact position . that being said a good shelter is mandatory gear .

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Jay, I'm glad you liked it. Very well said about fire use! Thanks for watching

[@dsldg2]

ah man that's some sleep system .. I think if you use a Snorkel it would cure any condensation problem ....kol... :) another great video Dave...

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

LOL, Man maybe Ill add a snorkel! I'm glad you liked it. Thanks for watching

[@buzzandselunsupervised649]

Top dollar. Never boring. As always some great ideas. I do love a bivvi bag. Still use my old Issued bag from my Army days

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Sel! Man it's hard to beat the good ole military gear.

[@HFSurvivalSchool]

Great video brother ! Very informative ! It got the wheel in my mind spinning for sure :) Thanks for sharing and have a nice day ! Nick

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, I'm glad you liked it. Its always great to have the ole wheels in the head spinning! Thanks for watching Nick

[@larryfinch1529]

I gratefully appreciate the detail you put into this! So many videos show but don't explain what and why..Thank you!!!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

You are very welcome Larry and thanks for watching!

[@windhamcabin]

Awesome system Dave. I have tried similar set ups but you thru in a few zingers for me to give a go 😀 Here in Maine its tuff to camp without a good cold weather system. Most normal people stay in where its warm! haha Great looking anorak as well. Happy New Year. Hope you guys have health and happiness! take care -Chris

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Chris, I'm glad you liked it all man. I havent had years and years of cold weather here but, Ive had enough to finally figure out what works together the best. I hope you can use some of the ideas here. A video just cant do justice for how warm you can be sleeping this way. Happy New year to you too and Thanks for watching

[@johngray9702]

Thank you Dave. The knowledge you share is priceless.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

You are very welcome John and thanks for watching brother

[@jasonantigua6825]

My gf loves your voice,she gets all silly when you come on !

[@tomritter493]

jason antigua lol gotta smile when Dave's on

[@earlschultz7880]

My wife does too, and she loves his pretty eyes!

[@shaninebuller9165]

I must confess I love to listen to him and his eyes are beautiful! 😘 Everything sounds important or profound in that accent. If he had a big white moustache and read out the stats for apples, it would be the most important apple info ever.

[@outdoors-university]

Great analysis! Thanks for your information! Stay safe and keep having fun out there!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Brother! I'm happy you liked it and you stay safe too

[@longtrend1]

Your a great teacher and awesome dad.keep making them videos please.I learn so much from you

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks! Lots more just like these to come!

[@dirkmontgomery2xs]

I love these long videos ...

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Dirk! I probably couldnt make a short one even if I tried. LOL. Thanks for watching

[@torsten4757]

hey dave, thanx for sharing your ideas, I like your entertaining, long, informative Videos about all that good stuff we love doing in the woods ☺ go for more 👍 Viele Grüße aus Deutschland Torsten

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Great to hear that and I'm always happy to share. Thanks for watching Torsten!

[@houseoffire72]

Living in NW Wis all my life except 3 yrs on the west cost I can honestly say the polyester fabrics suck... Its basicly plastic that traps heat and moisture as where cotton wicks it away. Rule of thumb I tell anyone im out with is that if your sweating in cold weather slow down or you will freeze. I froze my feet as a kid so now I never tighten my boots up I keep them loose to create a warm air pocket persey.

[@uncledoglips]

hay houseofire 72 Where about in Wi do you live? I live south of Lacrosse, in the Kickapoo river valley. Great camping .

[@houseoffire72]

uncledoglips Im just South of Rice lake & west of the Blue Hills. [e-mail]

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Man, you are the only human Ive ever met that like cotton over polyester. Everyone I have ever met or talked to has said cotton kills and they hate cotton so what youre saying shocks me. Are you talking about clothes or sleep gear? Tell me more. I agree with ya 100% on boots. Keep em loose so the blood can flow. Thanks for watching man

[@willybee3056]

Reallybigmonkey1 Hey Dave,,, tanx for another very good video. . HOW do I send you one of my camping inventions ? I would like your opinion about it. bill

[@houseoffire72]

Reallybigmonkey1 Lol David there are many of us that perfer cotton over some over priced poly crap:) Poly materials are petro based so basicly its a type of plastic. Take a scrap and burn it - it will melt and stink as where cotton will not. Poly traps heat better since its basicly a poly tarp over the skin as where cotton is like a second layer of skin. People have used cotton for 100's of yrs without issue & the rule of thumb is... if your sweating slow down keep your layers loose and your boots too. Its the same princable as keeping the boots loose..why? our feet sweat more than any other part of our bodies for the most part but you know first hand why loose boots are better. Its just like your sleep system & why it works better than set up as a 3pc ecws. Another issue is poly based clothes are actually toxic to the skin - plastics leech off chemicals when heated. As far as sleep systems go nothing wrong imho using these modern materials to save weight and stay warm since its basicly a poly tarp & we all now a poly tarp makes a great shelter - your setups are fantastic!!! I hope i explained it all correctly and short enough lol...

[@nicolehervieux1704]

In northern Ontario @ -35C it is cold, finding subzero, light sleeping bag is hard and expensive, not to mention the sleeping pad / tent, and everything multiply x 2 because there are two of us. I have been building my bug out bags for ever now trying to find good deals. It is also more expensive in Canada. But we have some of the best that nature has to offer. Great channel, thank you.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Oh I believe it! At them temps you need the best gear made. I don't experience temps that cold here in Georgia so Its not as important for me. Im glad you like my channel, Thanks for watching Nicole!

[@ralphblack510]

"Why, do you think you can do something better than the military does it? " *me without a second's hesiatation:"I know for a fact you can do it better"

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Well said Ralph!

[@tikkidaddy]

@@Reallybigmonkey1 Sold to lowest bidder usually applies. Some is great. Some not so much. Hybrid is the way usually😂

[@survivalprepper373]

Thank you for showing us your perfect sleeping system. I dont sleep in the wood, but I carry always some big PVC trash-bags with me. In a emergency situation I build with them a primitive "sleeping system" ;). I filll them with leafs to build a big "mattress" with insulation function and two sticking together bags as a "sleeping bag" or as a rain shelter. I learned from your video, that moisture from breathing inside the Bag is a big problem and how I can minimize it. Thank you much, Dave! ATB Tony

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

You are very welcome and I'm glad you liked it. Ah the old trash bags. That brings back fun memories of years ago. Them things are so much better if you also tote a roll of duct tape. Thanks for watching Tony!

[@WW2HistoryHunter]

Again a very good video and highly appreciated. Learning so much every time i watch. Thanks my friend and a greeting from WW2HistoryHunter.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Always great to hear that my friend and I'm happy you liked it. Thanks for watching

[@cantabhiker3285]

another nice video, Dave. I think the most important point you made is change to dry clothes before u get into your sleep system. it makes a huge difference in comfort. I've used the shemagh trick too. works great. take care & stay warm.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, I'm glad you liked it. Absolutely man. Ive seen too many people just wear thick day clothes to bed and wonder why they freeze. Great to hear a fellow camper has used the Shemagh trick! Thanks for watching

[@johnhartbarger7659]

after you got all zipped up,i thought you was going to say , shoot i got to pee. lol great video,thanks captjohn.

[@back_country_adventures9023]

John Hartbarger no....that comes an hour later then you gotta crawl out into the cold and dance for. min then dive bomb back into a cold sleep system and get it warm again. works best if ya got ya girlfriend or wife in the with ya lol.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

LOL, nah. When ever I sleep like this I avoid coffee after 3:00. Thanks for watching John

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

LOL. Aint that the truth man

[@patmash]

Looks like a very comfy sleeping arrangement. Enjoyed watching.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Oh its incredibly warm n cozy! Thanks for watching

[@SkyKing101010]

I can take it off if I have it with me, but I can't put it on if it's at home.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Absolutely Bruce!

[@HamsterLife_EnglishLearning]

Watching this again before I shop for my bed. I bought the Mountain Hardware Optic 3.5 tent & footprint for it. I'm getting ready to go with my daughter camping, once winter is over. They have their own large family tent. I bought 3.5 size for 2 to be comfortable in case one of my grand children want to join me, or they want to borrow it for backyard outdoor pj party. I think I am going to go bivy with warm clothes and a blanket lined in it. My daughter will make a camp fire, but I'm going to bring my 2 alcohol stoves and tiny wood stove, Dietz lanterns, and bring my 4 charged & crank, camping gear, camping compact pots and pans, led lights so the kids and I can have fun showing them how they work and help me cook. lolol My daugher last night took a picture of my Condor Elite Titan pack with two side bags (one is first aid kit. She was laughing saying she is going to show her friends and post on facebook. Mom's all ready for camping lol. You can tell I've not been for 25 years lol. Here's to hoping we don't go to a paid park where you park car on a tiny lot. lolol

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Well you may not have camped for 25 years but you certainly sound like you have the right gear now! I hope it all goes well and the whole family has fun. Let me know how it all goes.

[@danajohnson3799]

Once I get in and get all comfy... I have to pee.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

LOL, Thats the law of nature! Thanks for watching Dana

[@HARDYSFISHINGADVENTURES]

Thanks for the tips if u want to save a little use the patrol bag as a duvet over you I often do that with my sleeping bags

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

You are very welcome and I'm glad you liked it. I used to do that until I started using two seperate jungle bags. It makes it easier to wrap one around your feet and one around your head and neck if you need to. Thanks for watching

[@1acroyear1]

Your vids are always fun and I always, *always* learn something new from them. Thanks for sharing.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Always good to hear that and Im happy you liked it and learned from it. Thanks for watching and see ya in the next one

[@ladonnad.steele2470]

good info on something that could kill you cold...layers layers layers! Have spent very cold nights out doors and dry layers are the way to go!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Oh absolutely the only way to go Ladonna. Layers layers and more layers!

[@JEFLeb35712]

An other good video. Always be prepared. I live in Canada so if it gets too cold one can always build a big bon fire nearby. Love the layering approach.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Jeff, I'm glad you liked it. Lol, hard to beat a big bon fire

[@thomaspigg306]

Hey Dave, you talk about getting old.... The one thing I've learned is it ain't for sissies! (LOL) Like you, 35 years ago I could run with the best of them, now I just sit on the porch and watch them run by! (LOL) Thanks for the vids and all the great info!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Ah well I can tell Im getting old. I cant get around as well as years ago and I moan groan creak and pop now. LOL. I still get out into the woods tho. Take care and Thanks for watching Thomas

[@jackg.7745]

Another great video sir!!! I really like the ground tarp that you made. Very clever. I own 3 MSSs for myself and the family. They can be a bit pricey but I think it's some of the best money I've ever spent. Here in Texas our winters very rarely dip below 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Maybe a couple of days 15 - 20 degrees. I generally only carry the green patrol bag with the Gortex bivi. Together they should be good to about 20 - 25 degrees. With that I always have a heavy ground tarp, a sleeping mat, a USGI woobie, a grabber casualty blanket and a wool blanket in case it gets colder. Great minds do think alike though. I also don't want to damage my bivi. Rather than use a piece of foam mat to keep the bivi off of my face, I use a short piece of one of those swimming pool water noodles. It's light weight, packs easy and forms a perfect arch over my head and chest. Thanks for sharing.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Jack, I'm glad you liked it. Oh yes, its hard to beat a MSS. It rarely gets below 20 here in Georgia in the winter but Im a cold sleeper anyway so I need as much warmth as possible. Good idea with the noodle!Thanks for watching

[@1fanger]

You are correct about wearing minimal nighttime underclothes and allowing your body to chill down just before crawling into your shelter. It does somehow gets your system ready for the cold. I have worn just a heavy cotton tee shirt and cotton briefs w/ socks and slept in below freezing temps w/ an inch of snow covering me overnight up in the Idaho panhandle, with only a Korean War era surplus down mummy bag on leaves and pine straw and raked up moss Problem was, some fishermen upwind from us were grilling some lake trout they caught. The odor of that delicious fish was driving us crazy. Have a good 2017.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Sounds like a good set up. Im guessing that Korean war set up is heavy and probably bullet proof warm. Thanks for the story and thanks for watching!

[@trooper2221]

FANTASTIC! i have had the mss for some time and never used it yet, hey great tip with the blue pad curved there to hold up ivy off face, and good tip on the shemag stopping the moisture from breath filling up the bag, now to the hammock camp vid thanks Dave

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

You have a gold mine in that MSS! Mix and match parts and pieces and you'll have a year round sleep system

[@daddyjohn2131950]

YOU ARE ABSOLUTELY RIGHT.....YOU DESERVE A LOT MORE RECOGNITION FOR YOUR VIDEOS....

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks John!

[@captandysir8670]

I love watching your bushcraft videos, but this "real world" system was very useful. Thanks!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Capt!

[@jimstanton4715]

Hay old man I am a older man and I do understand. I live and camp slightly north of Houston, Texas and it stays warmer so my sleep system is much lighter. Good video.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Ah as we all get older we just slow down a little and take it easy. Take care and Thanks for watching Jim

[@richardjones990]

Those Snugpak blankets are super warm. Two of them would be toasty. I use one of those blankets along with a Snugpak Softy Elite 5 sleeping bag when winter tent camping. Very informative video. Nice job!!!!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Oh yes, one jungle blanket helps but two are very warm! I've been wanting a softie elite for years but haven't bought one. Thanks for watching Richard

[@richardjones990]

I bought mine on Amazon for a discount as it was a returned item by someone. It appeared to be brand new and unused. I highly recommend the Softie Elite bag.

[@roddetmer4972]

Fresh dry socks. Sounds like the military....and oh yeah, the sleep system. :) I use the mss and love it. My wife and I use it with our hammock sleep system. Always warm. We fill the green bag with leaves or pine ferns and use it for an under quilt. Love your videos. Patrol bags are very good for camping in pretty much any weather. Unless you live in Alaska. LOL.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks for the comments Rod and I'm glad you liked the video. There's not much a MSS can't handle!

[@Thee-_-Outlier]

The jungle blanket is super nice. I slightly prefer the onewind top quilt. There is a colder version that can handle about an Xtra 10-15 degrees over that jungle blanket. I also like the top quilt you don't lay on the insulation so all that loft is covering you. It has a foot box draw string and also snaps plus it snaps into a poncho liner like a swagman roll does but way cheaper. It's pretty bad ass tbh I sleep in it every night at home even lol. Onewind top quilt it's called it comes in two temp ratings I have the colder one. Granted it isn't as compressed as that jungle blanket but I still prefer a top quilt style even tho I have the USMC improved bivvy with icw and ecw bags. Like you I wouldn't ever bring the whole sleep system even the one I have I'd use the icw alone or in conjunction with the onewind. If it's super cold I'll replace the icw with the down ecw. I also like the onewind uses an environmentally sustainable insulation from DuPont. even tho I hate DuPont at least that product line is sustainable tho prolly still toxic AF to manufacture. my set up is the usmc bivvy then the mattress then either the icw or ecw bag and finally the top quilt over me inside the icw or ecw.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks for the input Daniel and thanks for watching

[@randybranch4005]

Excellent job Dave. Very well explained and demonstrated. Thank you for taking the time to break this down in such detail. Definitely using this guide to build my own winter sleep system.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Randy! I'm glad you liked it and good luck with your winter system!

[@keithbush2945]

Just ran across your videos, I must say well done. I have been using the modular system for years and have not had any problems with it at all. I used one similar to that on a scout trip to Talladega and it was good to below 0 degrees. Although I am so use to using quilts from my hammock sleep system, I am fiddling around with that for tent camping. If we get some colder weather here in North Alabama, I plan to work on it some more. Thanks for sharing and Keep up the great work.......

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Keith, I'm glad you liked it. Man the MSS is an amazing system as it comes. Im a very very cold sleeper so I had to make a few mods and additions to mine to stay warm at 0 degs. I would love to see it get below zero for a little bit. Thanks for watching

[@mjmorro7757]

I've got some left-over black pond liner that'll make a great mat :) Thanks for a great idea!!!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

That will work!

[@daveedwards6567]

Great video Dave 👍 it's to worm here were I live all year round a bit cooler during a typhoon but think I Tri looking into getting a jungle blanket once again thanks Dave

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Dave, I'm glad you liked it. It's warm here most of the year too but during our winter I pretty much always carry 2 Jungle blankets. Thanks for watching brother

[@Bo_Spurlock]

i always sleep on my stomach and dont have to worry about bivy on my face, but great idea, love your problem solving ideas

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Man I wsihed I could sleep that way. I only sleep on my back and never move. I'm glad you liked it all Bro. Thanks for watching

[@emailer8326]

Great video. Very good modified MSS. I have that exact same schmaug. There are a million uses for that.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, I'm glad you liked it

[@figtreeprophecy]

Very cool system! I'm not as handy at making items, or motivated, lol, so I use a shooting mat when sleeping on the ground. Its 74 " x 35 1/2 " length and width and 6 1/2 " rolled, weighs 3 pds. Has carry handle and shoulder strap1000D Cordura nylon top, 1200D polyester bottom ( waterproof ) and 1/2 " thick padding. It has stake out grommets and its ...olive drab! That got your attention, haha .Its sold by MidwayUSA and there are at least 8 different models ranging from $14.47 to $99.99. So basically heavier and more expensive and not as cool as yours! Doesn't come in blue, lol.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, I'm glad you liked it. Ah man, that shooting mat sounds good, even better in Olive drab! I didnt know they made them like that. Thanks for watching

[@markhockingberry4590]

Don't know if you'll get to read this but I thought I'd put it on here anyway great video a lot of good information I just recently retired and I've always loved camping but usually go with a tent. I was watching this video this morning with a cup of coffee and my girlfriend comes out oh another one of those she says and I said just watch it it's interesting you'll learn a lot of stuff but she's not going to go camping if she has to sleep on the ground so she's fumbling around in the kitchen and I'm listening she didn't get interested until you said you were going to shuck your clothes and get into your sleeping bag then it was behind me over the shoulder watching so thanks for that. I have used the double sleeping bag method a few times we have a deer camp 2000 miles away where it gets cold it got down to 17 below was a little cold but comfortable. Couple years ago we had electric put in the cabin and had some what we call barnburners Little electric heaters which took the edge off. Now 60 and I don't stay as warm as I used to so on our way down to camp I stopped at Walmart and picked up an electric blanket didn't let anyone know and hid it Inside my sleeping bags. So I stayed pretty warm that night but when we got up somebody was saying we need to get a fire started so we can get warm and I threw back the covers and said I'm nice and warm the look on their faces was priceless. My son was so mad he didn't speak to me the rest of the day but after the hunt that day three of them drove 35 miles to the nearest Walmart and they all picked up electric blankets we still laugh about it but at the time they didn't think it was funny . Just in case somebody asked why we had Electric we've had it for 11 years and there's 8 of us that's a lot of coolers and a lot of ice can't leave it outside because of the bear and the wild boar so we put in electric for the refrigerator

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Mark, I'm glad you and your girlfriend liked it. LOL. Man nothing wrong with an electric blanket. If I had a place to plug one in I would take one too! Thanks for watching

[@ragingcaucasian5233]

just wanted to say that I really enjoy your videos and appreciate all the time you sacrifice so others can be educated and enjoy our hobby. keep up the good work.... and thanks.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

You are very welcome and I'm always happy to share. Im glad you liked it and how I do things too. Thanks for watching

[@woodsmokegary3574]

thanks dave nice vid ,first time iv written in,iv seen your vdios for about ayear now always found them interesting- different but interesting.Im over 60 and still enjoy bushwork.C-ya

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, I'm glad you liked it and the others. I guess all the vids are pretty much different from the norm. LOL. Thanks for watching my friend

[@whitecompany18]

I love that area folded at the end for stuffing gear ..awesome. my pillow and stuff constantly slip out from underneath me during the night. great vid buddy .

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Brother, I'm glad you liked the idea. You can pretty much make a mat like that out of any kind of vinyl. Not only is it handy for storing gear but, its a fast way of getting out a coat at night when ya gotta get up and go pee. Thanks for watching