Mentor's PSK Thread

[Mistwalker]

mistwalker, thanks for that review link! Very cool test. l was actually surprised to see that the lid didn’t open, what with all the banging around rocks. Good idea re: cutting the mag block down, too. I think I might add a dedicated ferro-rod, lose the combo, and add a cut-down piece of mag block.


- Mike

Your quite welcome, glad you enjoyed it. That was the whole point of the test, to see just how secure and how waterproof it was before I used it to keep my camera in it. Maybe it wouldn't have gotten any water in it at all just floating down the stream. But considering it going from the heated cab of my truck into the icy water in such a short period of time, and then being banged against rocks and all I was pretty impressed with the results.

Cutting the mag sticks down will give you two pieces of kit, one with a ferro rod already on it that can be made into a neck kit if you like, and then one that can go in a kit with another ferro rod.

If you'll read both pages of this....

http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=621425

....you'll see why I like the heat sheets. As mentioned there is a more detailed thread on it on another forum where I documented the whole 5 weeks of the test. However at the time i posted this here it hadn't yet downed on me to put more pictures in replies so I cut it down to post here. The heat sheet's resilience really impressed me.

Brian

 

[Mentor]

Mike,

I think it's great that you went another way instead of Maxpedition or Spec-Ops Brand stuff and went with Mountain Equipment Co-op. I found them online and they remind me of the more simple Dana Design Messenger Bag and some Sun Brand stuff...perhaps some Jansport stuff from about a decade ago that was much more simple and better than it is now.

Can you show the other compartments on the bag and use a bit more light/flash? Also, have you examined by hand the slightly larger version of this bag and then the one above that one? I cannot remember what the one above this one is but the larger of the three of this type is the Carryall.

The kit looks solid as well.

Thanks, Don.

I dig MEC gear. Great value, lots of 'made in Canada' (which is so hard to find these days) and I get a yearly kickback as a member.

I did check out the larger packs they had available. They have a great selection. When I made my purchase, I brought my usual hiking pack with me, in order to test-fit things. This particular pouch seemed to offer the best compromise between space and ease of carry, but there were several larger pouches that looked enticing too.

Here are a few shots of the pack, taken with flash.

Main compartment:

Shoulder strap attached:

Side compartment:

Front pouch:

Top zip pouch:

All the best,

- Mike

 

[Mistwalker]

just wanted to add to the above post that the heat sheets come in two sizes, in that thread I used the larger one.

 

[Don Rearic]

Mike,

Thanks for the additional pictures!

 

[Mentor]

Hi All,

Well, it has been a little over a month since I assembled my new PSK, and in that time it has accompanied me on a multi-day backpacking trip through Algonquin Park, fishing trips, day hikes and overnighters, and occasionally around town. It has been rained on, dropped in the mud, scraped, banged, and above all used, and I have made a few modifications along the way.

I should clarify that this is more of a ‘woods kit with survival items included’. I enjoyed the recent thread where we discussed the various approaches to a PSK, from the ‘in case of emergency, break seal’ approach to the ‘I use this stuff every day’ approach. Mine is a bit of a mix. Some items see regular use, while others are for emergencies. I keep on top of my stock so that it is ready to serve me in a survival situation, of course.

Here’s a shot of the current set-up, minus the mini-bic that usually goes in the kit. Also not shown is the ever-useful compass that resides in the top zip pouch.

I should show a shot of my hiking knife rig, too, as it contains a few PSK-ish items and the two are always with me when I’m in the woods.

The Spec-Ops sheath holds my JK-AK, a Leatherman Wave, and a Leatherman Monarch LED flashlight. I cannot recommend the Monarch highly enough. It takes a single AAA battery, is very bright, and has a metal casing, pocket clip, and lanyard. It replaced the twist-light flashlight in my PSK, but I found it to be so useful that it has migrated to my pocket when I’m in the city and my knife sheath when I’m in the woods. I’m going to buy another one of these to put in my PSK as a backup. I carry an extra battery in my PSK.

Other revisions include the addition of a newsprint-wrapped candle, which is actually intended to be a spare for the little lantern that I often carry when I’m backpacking. These things burn for a good while, and they provide enough light for you to see what you’re doing when you’re building a fire. I recall a trip in BC several years ago when I had to get a fire going after dark. I used a candle as a light source while I gathered my tinder and kindling and got things going. It saved my flashlight battery. I wound up lighting the fire by waving a PJCB over the candle when I was ready.

I also added a bunch of jute twine, which pulls double duty as tinder and cordage. As an added bonus, it is crazy cheap.

The Becker Necker that was my backup knife has been replaced by a Koster W&SS forum knife. After a few outings, I have decided that I am happy with the reduction in overall size that comes with this, but that I really need to add some bulk to the handle of the Koster. I’m going to give it a paracord wrap for starters, and see how that works out. Anyway, it’s a very nice knife and it holds a good edge. My EDC is a bit better for wood working, but the Koster has frequently come in handy as a scraper, food prep knife, and general utility blade.

I removed the match case. Between my Bic, the mag block and striker, and the additional lighter or misch-metal rod I usually carry in my pocket, I think I’m set for fire, and I found the matches to be redundant and space-hogs. I’m open to the idea of putting them back in, though. What do you guys think?

Removing the match case and the bulky flashlight gave me room to throw in a SAK (no scales) and the candle, which I see as a good trade-off.

A few thoughts on performance:

It was necessary to re-square the back of my little JK striker knife. Before, I was scraping metal off of the rod without throwing sufficient sparks. Now it does its job nicely. I’m looking forward to getting my new JK fire kit this Fall!
The hand sanitizer sees a great deal of use, especially when it becomes necessary to break out the first aid kit. I have already rotated it out for a new bottle once. It is also useful for cleaning one’s hands or gear after using a PJCB, and for cleaning up after lunch on the trail. Definitely a keeper.
I am now an advocate of flat, wide cases for PJCBs. They save you a hassle and are easy to pack.

The trash bags and space blanket are replacements. I have made use of the trash bags as trash bags on a number of occasions when I found junk on the trails. Both the trash bags and the space blanket came in handy in a recent urban rain storm. I’m seriously considering upgrading the space blanket to something a bit more durable and useful for shelter building. Any recommendations?

As for the pouch and case combo, I am really happy with my choices. The pouch is just the right size. I can attach it to my belt for a day hike, sling it over my shoulder for ease of access and transportation when I’m canoeing or fishing, and attach it to my pack for longer treks. The case isn’t optimum in terms of internal space, but it is tough as nails and waterproof, and these are important attributes for me. I may go for a few Fall hikes without the rubber liner, just to see how much additional gear I can cram in there.

Regarding the first aid kit:

The Band-aids, antihistamines and medical tape have seen the most use. I’m generally pretty happy with this selection of gear, but I’m in the market for a new container. It needs to fit in the side pouch of my PSK. I would like it to be more durable than a Ziploc, but still transparent. Suggestions are welcome!

That’s about it for now. I’ll post again in a few weeks to discuss some of my new additions and revisions for Fall, which generally sees me doing more off-trail hiking. The PSK toque already came in handy once this year – in AUGUST – so it will definitely stay. Perhaps I will add some additional shelter and fire items.

Thoughts, scathing critiques, and observations most welcome.

All the best,
- Mike

 

[Fonly]

I would like it to be more durable than a Ziploc, but still transparent. Suggestions are welcome!

Go to your nearest fishing tackle store, and have at'er. there are all ways TONNES of containers that would fit in that kit.

 

[HikingMano]

Aloksak, Mike :thumbup:

 

[ROCK6]

I like you PSK concept…I think everybody has their own idea and flavors to suit their personal needs and concepts of the ubiquitous “PSK”. Personally, I think you should use your PSK periodically, just to ensure items are checked and rotated if needed…keeping it stocked and up to date is a crucial aspect of having functional when you really needed it.

First, I like the pouch and I really like the idea of it having the ability to attach/detach from a larger pack. I know those Pelican cases are a little bulky, but they are a handy and excellent weather-proof container and I agree about their ease to access needed items. I also like the idea that you have a small first aid kit that’s separate. I’ve often had to use a band-aid, mole skin, antihistamine or other item and it’s nice that they are handy. Plus, if you use them more often, you keep them stocked and updated…well, at least you need to make that a habit. The full-size compass is a good idea as well. I don’t care too much for the button compasses in most kits.

Not sure if I saw one, but a small, flat role of stainless utility wire is always handy. A couple of Emergen-C electrolyte packets are good compact and useful when dehydrated. Also, I agree about the flashlight; I have several and EDC two…ARC LED (single AAA battery) and a Novatac-120 LED (single CR123 battery). I use lithium batteries for my bags/kits…much longer storage life and better performance in extreme temperature conditions.

Cordage is always useful, and you could just braid about 10-12 feet of 550-cord and stuff it in the bottom of the bag.

I have several types, but I’ve used my PSK’s on a daily basis for any number of minor “emergencies”. I’ve been carrying this gem in my small leg pocket of my ACU’s for the past few years and it’s come in handy numerous times. Although it’s more of a compact First Aid Kit, it’s just a handy little kit I carry as part of my EDC:

My boss knows I’m always prepared...he needed some tape for his small bottle of shampoo/soap prior to flying out and visiting some of our troops in out-sites, so I whipped the flat roll of 100mph/duct tape out of my back pocket; he ripped a hole in his crotch (pretty funny actually), and we were getting ready to attend a BBQ with our Canadian Signal brothers/sisters, so I pulled my small sewing kit out this kit and he sewed it up laughing that whenever he needed something I had it on my person. The anti-malaria pills have adverse affects on you once you start taking them; the Imodium (I need to pick up some more) came in handy to counter the bowel-exploding effects of the anti-malaria meds…I keep a few Imodium pills in my mini-PSK/FAK which saved the day.

I have had several small “emergencies” where being a little prepared goes a long way.Whether you tap into your PSK on a daily basis or not, the sole purpose is that you have it with you when you need it. I never get tired of these posts as I always pick up another useful idea...thanks a bunch Mentor and I'm glad to see you not only having an excellet PSK, but out using it, validating it and improving it.

ROCK6

 

[Mentor]

Thanks Fonly, I'm sure that a trip to Bass Pro Shop will provide a solution.

And thanks Rock6, for the detailed comments. Most helpful! I will add a roll of stainless utility wire to my kit. It will definitely fit in the Pelican. I can see lots of potential applications - have you used the wire in your own PSK much, and if so, for what?

I will also add some electrolyte packets. Actually, that's one thing that I think that my kit is a bit light on - food and energy consumables. For the Fall season, I may just add a ziploc pack to the Pelican, with some tea bags, an energy bar, and a few other odds and ends stuffed in.

Thanks again for the suggestions, and all the best,

- Mike

 

[koyote]

there's a type of bag that you may want to look at- the heatable MRE bag.

I can't give you a link without it being to a website that sells them. I don't know if this is a good price or what, I'm not recommending this site specifically or anything, don't ding me on it. But I've been wanting to try them and considering a group order to share out. (except I don't have time)

http://www.theepicenter.com/mre_military_meal_ready_to_eat.html

towards the bottom of the page. the Hot Beverage Bag. It might hold up really well being thicker material. Or it might not.

 

[ROCK6]

And thanks Rock6, for the detailed comments. Most helpful! I will add a roll of stainless utility wire to my kit. It will definitely fit in the Pelican. I can see lots of potential applications - have you used the wire in your own PSK much, and if so, for what?


Thanks again for the suggestions, and all the best,

- Mike

Funny you mentioned using the wire. I was cleaning the room today (four of us to a room), and the broom (big shop type) was missing one of the screws to keep the head attached to the handle. I used my Vic Spirit to cut off a piece about 3 inches and made a quick repair...

ROCK6

 

[fishiker]

Regarding the first aid kit:

The Band-aids, antihistamines and medical tape have seen the most use. I’m generally pretty happy with this selection of gear, but I’m in the market for a new container. It needs to fit in the side pouch of my PSK. I would like it to be more durable than a Ziploc, but still transparent. Suggestions are welcome!

I use Coghlans waterproof pouches for FAKs and have been pleased with the performance. They are more durable than a ziplock and are available in many different sizes. Great post so far, thanks for updating.

 

[Mentor]

Hi all,

I have been tinkering with my PSK, and I thought that it might be time to update this thread. The latest refinements reflect a shift from modular add-on PSK to a Personal Survival Day Pack (PSDP! Yay, a new acronym!). Towards the middle of September, I started to think about how I pack for day hikes, and whether it made sense for me to treat my hiking pack and PSK as separate entities. I decided that for one-day outings, it makes more sense for me to distribute my survival gear throughout my hydration pack - this makes me a bit more mobile (no PSK weighting down one side of the pack) and allows me to carry some additional gear. I switch back to the MEC PSK pouch for overnighters or extended outings.

Here's my current PSK.

It is based on an Asolo camelbak-type hydration pack. I rarely use the hydration bag, though - Instead, I pack a stainless steel thermos (with water) and cup. These fit in the zippered hydration pouch. The pack's padding prevents them from digging into my back as I'm hiking.

When I'm using my MEC pouch, I pack my first aid kit in a thick-gauge ziploc. Since this setup gives me more room, I have created an expanded FAK and placed it in a plastic freezer container. All of the usual items are still included, but this kit contains some seasonal additions - some serious cold / flu symptom meds, Fisherman's Friend cough drops, etc. Not pictured here is the small pack of kleenex that is usually stuffed on top.

The PSK gear in the Pelican case remains unchanged, and is working out really well. I'm going to add some fatwood and additional tinder items, just to help with fire-starting as the temperature begins to drop.

New additions to the kit:

A Leatherman Serac 2 to replace my old Leatherman that went AWOL in the middle of a swamp. This is an amazing little LED flashlight - it has two settings, an all-metal waterproof casing, and it takes a single AAA. The pocket clip is reversible, so you can attach it to your hat while you're working.

A JK fire kit, which usually rides in my pants pocket and combines a sharp utility knife with a ferro-rod in a compact package. This is a really handy EDC item. I used it this morning to start a small fire to make coffee while I was hiking.

Not pictured are my tuque and the pair of thermal gloves that are now stuffed in my pack, along with some extra cordage. The outer pouch also holds my wallet, note pad, keys, and cell phone. I usually carry my rain jacket rolled up and clipped to the exterior of the pack.

I have found this arrangement to be comfortable, more extensive than a smaller stand-alone pack, and easy to work with. I think that I will be using a similar setup from now on, unless I'm doing a multi-day hike where having a detachable modular PSK makes more sense.

My next update on this kit (likely next week) will discuss the outcome of my water immersion test (will the essential items stay dry?).

As always, thoughts, suggestions, and critiques are most welcome.

All the best,

- Mike

 

[KuRUpTD]

Thanks for the update Mentor, looks like a really good setup.
I'm putting together a PSK as well and you've given me some ideas.