What I Put In my Mountaineer II Handle

[Lenny]

Finally have configuration almost optimum.
First thing in the narrowed down portion of the handle is several lifeboat matches, several strike-anywhere matches, and the striker panel from the lifeboat match box. This is rolled in a small piece of plastic bag to keep the match heads from rubbing the inside of the handle, and bound with a small rubber band. I had to trim the matches and striker panel short to allow the other things to sit on top if it. The next thing in is one of those tiny glass bottles sold at Exploration Products half filled with Potable Aqua Tablets, with a portion of a cotton ball on top to keep the tabs from turning to dust(and for use as emergency fire tinder). Cap screwed on tightly. On top of that, another portion of cotton ball for cushioning and emergency fire tinder. In the cap, still more cotton ball (same reasons)and a beautiful little Compass from TAD. The compass is wedged in with cardboard match bodies and can be used to take a bearing without removal from the cap.
I'm planning on the following mods:
- a $20 bill rolled up and surrounding the matches and Potable Aqua tablets in the handle (hey, you never know when a few bucks can get you out of trouble, even in the woods)
- a condom in place of the cotton ball behind the compass in the cap; used for water purification and storage.
- maybe some fishing line and hooks

So tell me if you think I'm on the right track.
Comments and suggestions are very welcome.
Thanks,
Lenny

 

[JohnnyO]

Gee, talk about maximizing space. Sounds like you did a pretty good job, making the most out of what space you had.

 

[Professor]

Besides, escort services are expensive these days, and a very necessary part of survival.

Seriously speaking, $100 would cover minor automotive catastrophies if needed. Just my .02. I think you're right as rain with everything else...

Professor.

 

[Booger]

Look's like a pretty good settup.I used to carry about the same in mine plus small fishing items.Now I keep it simpler with items for fire only.I ordered a scout model firesteel from Bagheera and ground the handle to make it smaller.I also carry the waxed paper strips he sent for tender,they work great.I carry the other items in a seperate small pouch now.I seem to use the fire supplies alot more than anything else so The other items just seemed to get in the way.But everyone has different needs.Enjoy.

 

[Lenny]

Picked up some fish hooks and line last night.
Wrapped quite a bit of the line around the match striker.
Then sandwiched 2 hooks between some thin cardboard from a matchbook, taped it closed, and wedged it in around the Aqua Tab bottle.
Booger, thanks to you, I'm gonna substitute the wax paper wrapping for the plastic around the matches.
Keep the comments coming.
Thanks,
Lenny

 

[MJB]

Looks like a good start. Take a look at equipped.com. A bunch of discussion about survival equipment, ditch bags, etc., with what appears to be a very practical approach.

They also like the Sebenza quite a bit.

Mike