NEW!! Black Scout Survival: Basic Survival Kit in our Store

New to our store, Black Scout Survival: Basic Survival kit. This kit is a collaboration between HardCase Survival and Black Scout Survival. This kit is similar to our Personal Survival Kit We decided to offer a lower priced model by replacing the Leatherman Multi-Tool with the Folding Razor Saw.
BUY HERE

SIGNAL MIRROR HAS BEEN CHANGED AND FLY REMOVED FROM FISHING KIT EFFECTIVE APRIL 1, 2013. SEE DETAILS BELOW
Contents:

Folding Razor Saw
Measuring 2.75 inches long this tool includes a razor for skinning game or other cutting task. The grip has measuring increments and lanyard hole. The saw can cut through 3/8" rebar in less than 25 minutes. Making it perfect for Urban and Wilderness Survival situations.
-Use the back edge of the FRS as a striker for the included flint rod.

NATO Marine Survival Whistle
Signaling is paramount to getting rescued. This is the same whistle used in British life boats. Its brightly colored so that its not lost. Has lanyard hole and side clip for different carrying options.

Photon II Micro Light w/ Lanyard
Compact light that can be used for signaling as well as illumination. Has constant On/Off and momentary switch. Ultra Bright LED 12 hour burn time with included lithium batteries. 
Lanyard can attach light, whistle, FRS, and mirror for convenience. Can also be used for hands free illumination when kneeling.

Fire Kit
The Fire Kit consist of 6 Hurricane (windproof/waterproof) matches, Small Ferro Rod (capable of 100's of fires), and 2 Tinder Quik tabs (can be cut into smaller pieces for numerous fires)

14 MM Luminescent Compass
Grade AA Liquid Filled, Highly Luminescent (last up to 7-8 hours with a short blast from the Photon II light)

Acrylic Signaling Mirror
This Acrylic featherweight Signal Mirror is ideal for everyday carry (EDC). Mirror is unbreakable in any reasonable situation.
Mirrored surface has removable protective film.
Dimensions: 2 x 1.4 inches, .040 thick

Fishing Kit
Includes 10lbs test fishing line, 3 Mustad hooks, 4 lead split shot weights. *FLY HAS BEEN REMOVED FROM THIS KIT



10 Aquamira Water Purification Tablets
Clean water is essential. 10 Individually sealed tablets with printed instructions on package.





Kit is housed in Super Tough Flambeau hinged case. 

Knives of Alaska: Xtreme Defense Survival Review

Knives are one of the most important tools to aid in survival. They can provide the most basic of survival needs; in the hands of a skilled individual. They can provide fire by fashioning a bow and drill. They can also provide food and shelter with some basic wilderness knowledge. That's why its important to select a quality survival knife that you can depend on.

This knife combines many elements to create a extremely durable and versatile blade. The model I tested was D2 steel, but you can also purchase an S30V model for a few extra dollars.

As you may or may not know D2 steel is an American made air hardened steel. It is a very tough steel with great edge retaining ability and is corrosion resistant. Speaking of American made, all KOA's knives are made here in the U.S.A.

With all knives I test and use, KOA's knives have been the sharpest out of the box I've seen. This one was no different. Upon initial observation the Xtreme Defense Survival is a very good looking knife. The canvas micarta handles are desert tan and the blade has a bead blasted finish to reduce glare (important for tactical situations)

 The Xtreme Defense Survival has a 6" full tang blade and an overall length of 11.5". This is usually the blade length I recommend when purchasing a multi-use fixed blade knife. The knife is well balanced with an ergonomically sound handle design. This made it easy during chopping and fine cutting task during my testing. I was also able to baton through oak fairly easily, possibly due to the blades edge bevel. If you've ever batoned through oak you understand the difficulty. The blade thickness is not to thick and not to small, measuring in the sweet spot. I would have liked a wider blade, but just my preference.

This knife is called Defense Survival, designed to fill the roles of survival knife and combat weapon. The blade design makes for a solid tactical weapon. The design of the knife is best served in the forward hand fighting position, the extended tang rear butt section also serves as a striking surface.

Now on to my favorite part of the knife. The micarta handles have machined storage pockets. This allows survival items to be stored in the handle. The handles are removed by the included Allen wrench that securely attaches to the back of the kydex sheath.

Allen wrench attachment

Many other survival knifes that have storage sections in the handle have weak spots; due to the blade being welded on. This is not a problem with the KOA Defense Survival because of the full tang design.

I was able to place 7 waterproofed (clear nail polish) strike-anywhere-matches, a button compass, 2 Tinder Quik tabs, 3 Mustad fish hooks, 1 San Juan worm fly, 3 split shot, and 20 ft of 30lbs test Fireline braided fishing line. There was also room to add more.

The accompanying Kydex sheath is of a very different design than your standard models. Not only does it have a friction fit securing system; there is also a flap that totally covers the knife handle. This not only secures but protects your knife. Being a former Military Parachutist, I would say this sheath meets all jump sheath requirements.

The sheath can be worn on your belt or attached to MOLLE or PALS systems. As you can see in the picture above; 550 cord can be wrapped around the sheath affixed inside the slots. Adding to its survival use. An upgraded nylon drop-leg sheath option is available for about $20 more. Although the accompanying sheath is not bad, I do not like kydex because its noisy and I dont find it comfortable to wear. So I would suggest getting the sheath upgrade.

No detail was spared by Knives of Alaska design staff. This knife fulfills all your survival needs, with the added bonus of a mini survival kit being stored in the handle. Knives of Alaska has quickly became one of my favorite knife manufacturers.  I hope to bring you guys more future reviews from KOA's lineup.

Take a look at the Xtreme Defense Survival @ http://www.knivesofalaska.com/item.asp?id=135&r=xtreme%2Easp%3Fc%3D10

Jack's Pocket Dump

Here is my pocket dump. I'm not a guy who likes to carry a bunch of stuff in my pockets. These are the items I have on me 99% of the time. Why do I not carry more you ask? Because in my day to day life I don't need a tactical flashlight in my back pocket or a lot of other items I see people carrying. Nor do I carry a lighter for one I don't smoke and I rarely need to start fires at a moments notice. I don't like carrying unnecessary items and making myself uncomfortable all day.

As we go along I will go into my different tiers. This is my first tier, the bare essentials.

• Cell phone (not pictured)
• Front pocket Wallet: containing Cash, I.D.'s, Debit/Credit cards, and Lock Pick card. After spending some time in sketchy 3rd world countries, I prefer to use  a front pocket wallet to discourage pick pockets.
• Keys along w/ handcuff key 
• Photon micro light (all the light that I would usually need)
• Benchmade Griptilian (I swap between this and Emerson CQC-7B) I also carry my tactical folder clipped in my rear pocket, instead of my front. I do this because its easier to pull stuff in and out of my front pocket. This also makes it difficult to be seen and you cannot see if facing me straight on.

As I stated in my previous article you have to adapt your EDC to your life. What works for me may not work for you. I may adapt and change depending on my daily task. But if I go a few days without needing something; I stop carrying it because I obviously don't really need it.

The next article I will talk about my EDC bag (then wilderness EDC). In my EDC bag I cover a lot of bases and somewhat may go overboard, but that's the purpose of an EDC bag. Right?

If you guys email us a picture of your EDC and description with reason behind your gear, we will post it here on Black Scout. Send emails to jack@blackscoutsurvival.com

Shomer-Tec Coin Handcuff Key

One of the most innovative E&E tools right now is the Coin Handcuff Key offered by Shomer-Tec. This key was developed for an Elite U.S. unit operating in a high risk area that needed a discreet escape and evasion option.

Throw this coin key with a few other coins and stash in your rear pocket. A few coins doesn't seem as it would pose a threat. As most E&E tools are hidden on your person, this key is actually hidden in plain sight. When items are hidden in plain sight they are usually overlooked by captors.

By running your finger along the edge of the coin the internal key pivots out. I've tried it from behind the back and it is extremely easy. Using the coin as the handle actually made it easier than using a standard handcuff key.

So whether you are serving in a high risk area or you just want to feel like James Bond; check them out at Shomer-Tec.

http://www.shomer-tec.com/product/coin-handcuff-key-1546.cfm

Cold War Communication: Spy Bolt

Here's another concealment/dead drop option delivered by Shomer-Tec. They have recreated and improved on the Cold War era Spy Bolt. The hollow spy bolt was used as a dead drop device by the Soviets operating in West Germany.  The Soviets would usually stash messages or other items; then screw the bolt into a desolate wooden bridge railing for another agent to retrieve.

Shomer-Tec's offers a larger cavity than the original (.49" cavity). The 3/4" bolt also has an O-ring that will keep your items from being damaged by weather.

The thing I really dig about the bolt is that it has reverse threading. So if someone tries to open it they will actually tighten it, heightening your security.

You could hide your valuables amongst other nuts and bolts and no one would ever know. Yet another way to hide your cash from your wife...

(Spy Bolt $27.00)
Check them out at Shomer-Techttp://www.shomer-tec.com/product/spy-bolt-1496.cfm

Everyday Carry: Intro

Example of someone's EDC

We are going to go over EDC (everyday carry) and PSK's (personal survival kits) over the next few weeks. Basic information on both topics and ideas for carry.

Everyday carry items need to be tools that: 
1. you use in your day to day life
2. a first tier level of preparedness for an unforeseen emergency
3. they need to be functional.

You may not always have your Survival kit/gear or B.O.B. when something happens. So with that, your EDC will be your first line of defense and will help with your chances of survival. (For example I'm all for fixed blade knives in a wilderness survival scenario...but what if I don't have it when disaster strikes? Can I survive with my tactical folder.)

EDC will vary by your profession, hobbies, and day to day life. A Special Forces soldier will have a different EDC than a Medical Doctor. A Law Enforcement Officer may have a back up pistol, where a construction worker may have a back up tape measure. Most folks base what they carry in their EDC on what they face everyday; while others carry gear of the "what-ifs". Neither is wrong and only you know what you need day to day or what you may encounter. Basically only you know what fits your life. So tailor it to your specific needs.

My EDC also breaks into tiers. I carry my normal pocket items, and I carry a Maxpedition Rollypoly Extreme Backpack that holds more stuff. I carry this day to day (except when I travel I use a Kelty Roam, doesn't have that "tactical" look). Then I have a wilderness EDC-and this may differ depending on my environment.

As I said "may differ depending on my environment" this goes with my pocket items. Depending on what I'm tackling day to day; I may change my EDC daily. (I swap between a Benchmade griptilian and Emerson CQC-7B constantly)

Over the next few weeks I'll go over my EDC and what I suggest. Hopefully this fills some gaps or answer's any questions that you guys may have. If you guys have any questions concerning EDC's drop a comment and we will get an answer back to you.

You can also check out Black Scout Associate Mike Everett's EDC under the EDC tab to your right.

Jack's Personal Survival Kit in contest

If you get a chance check out the TEOTWAWKI blog and catch the PSK contest they have going on right now. They have some pretty good entries right now. If you have a PSK; go ahead and submit it and if you don't show me some love on the comments over there. Thanks

http://teotwawkiblog.blogspot.com/2012/04/pocket-survival-kit-contest-entry-1.html

Tactical-Life.com PSK article

I was browsing the web and found this article on Tactical-Life.com. It covers PSK's and EDC information. We will be doing some in depth articles over the next few weeks on these two topics. Thought it would be a good intro.

And if you don't have a PSK or need another; Become a Black Scout-get the Black Scout survival kit in our store. It has all the essentials to keep your behind alive!

Photo Courtesy of Tactical-Life.com

The article is called Stayin' Alive Kits written by Michael Brown. Read here...

Knives of Alaska: Xtreme Model V

Knives of Alaska is known for its quality knives; this one is no different. The Model V is one of Knives of Alaska's Xtreme lineup and is a rugged, no frills, hard use blade.  Made from tough D2 steel the blade length measures 5" with an overall length of 10.5".  This had to be one of the sharpest knives out of the box I've seen!

The knife has a bare bones skeleton handle, keeping the knife light weight. The handles have a ripple design to hold the wrapped paracord in place (6 ft of paracord is included). The knife feels good in the hand with the paracord.  
A spear can be fashioned by splitting a stick and inserting the knife handle, then wrapping the paracord around the branch. Holding the knife in place.

The entire knife is coated with an Emralon anti-rust and corrosion coating. I can attest to the coating. I put this thing through hell without losing ANY finish on the blade.

With the knife coming in at around 8 ounces, the knife is extremely light. Being a former H2H (Hand to Hand) combat instructor; I also looked at this knife from a combative perspective. Combining the drop point and weight; this blade is a perfect tactical edge weapon. 

The Model V comes with a standard Kydex sheath. The sliding attachment point make it easy to take the sheath on and off.

I was able to stash a small ferro rod in the handle underneath the paracord. Using the back side of the blade to scrape on the ferro rod; igniting some fat wood I had shaved off with the Model V. Again, the finish was in tact.  




The Xtreme Model V is a true beast in a super light weight package. Its D2 blade will withstand the test of time and you wont have to sharpen it often. The only thing I would like to see-is to offer a non-serrated blade option. 

This isn't a heavy thick blade like most survival knives have today. So if that's what your looking for you may what to look at some other models.  I would consider this a general purpose/hard use knife. But with its durability and simplicity can accomplish most survival task.

Xtreme Model V
MSRP $79.99

Check out this model along with all of the other quality knives at Knives of Alaska.
http://www.knivesofalaska.com/item.asp?id=151

A HERO'S RECOVERY

Kyle holding AK-47

Just wanted to update on one of my good friends recovery.

For those of you that aren't familiar with Operation Kyle. LCpl Kyle Carpenter (USMC) currently a Medal of Honor nominee; is making a speedy recovery at the Bethesda Medical Center. 

While serving as a SAW gunner in Afghanistan; Kyle suffered catastrophic injures while shielding a fellow marine from a grenade blast.

The video below shows Kyle knocking out some motivated Marine Corps pull ups-after having his arm shattered in 30 places.

 Keep him and all of our wounded warriors in your prayers. Show Kyle some love on his Facebook page below.

http://www.facebook.com/operationkyle

Black Scout Survival: Personal Survival Kit

On Pre-Sale now in our store... the Black Scout Survival: Personal Survival Kit!


Designed by Jack Richland, this kit includes only the highest quality components. Most other survival kits include cheap items and items that don't really help you survive. This kit contains all the necessities and is small enough to be carried on your person at all times.

Contents:

• Leatherman PS4 Squirt Multi-tool
• Photon II Micro-Light w/ lanyard
• 14mm AA luminescent button compass
• 10 Aquamira water purification tablets
• Coghlans Glass Signal Mirror
• Ferro Rod (use back side of file on Leatherman as striker)
• 6 Hurrican Wind/Waterproof matches w/ striker
• 2 Tinder-Quik Tabs
• NATO Boat Whistle
• Heavy Duty Plastic Flambeau Container
• Fishing Line (line, sinkers, Mustad hooks, and Black Gnat Fly)

Purchase at our Store: http://blackscoutsurvival.bigcartel.com/product/pre-sale-black-scout-survival-personal-survival-kit

Never die from Hypothermia again

Escape Bivvy

If you have never taken your space blanket out and tried to use it, go ahead and do it now....Ok, disappointed yet?


Space blankets leave much to be desired. They don't really cover your body totally, and you cant seal the gaps. This allows painful cold wind and condensation inside. Oh, and has the irritating noise damaged your ear drums?


Survive Outdoors Longer (SOL) has developed a few products that pretty much decimate the good ol' space blanket.

About the size of a 32oz Nalgene Canteen

We will start of with the SOL Escape Bivvy, this product is new for 2012. Its a waterproof bivvy that reflects body heat and that is wind/waterproof. Another really awesome feature is that it's breathable-meaning that you will stay dry.

It's made from a super rugged spunbonded olefin fabric with a metalized coating. It can be used over and over again. Weighing about 8.5oz and measuring 84" x 36", there is more than enough room for a decent sized man to fit in the bivvy and be comfortable.

Another feature we like is the draw cord closure. This will help capture the heat and keep the wind/cold out. Try and find a space blanket that can do this.

There is also a rugged zipper on one side to facilitate getting in and out. Or if your placing another sleeping bag inside the bivvy.


This product is packed with features. This bivvy can also be used with your current sleep system (sleeping bag or hammock).  This is definitely something you want to take with you in the back country. (MSRP $50)


SOL Emergency Bivvy


This is a lighter weight and cheaper alternative. SOL has updated the Space blanket bags from back in the day. But SOL's Emergency Bivvy has a coating so they seem more durable and not near as loud.  Coming in just at 3.8oz; making it easy to carry just about everywhere. It also measures the same as the Escape Bivvy; so there is more than enough room. 

Unlike other space bags, these seams are reinforced-as shown in the picture above. We also like the stuff sack that comes with it, so that the bivvy can be packed and reused. (MSRP $17)


SOL Emergency Blanket

Pretty much a blanket made from the same material as the Emergency Bivvy. These are much quieter and more durable than conventional mylar blankets.  These are designed for one person and can be used as a blanket. It can also be used for different sheltering options. We also like the fact it can be used to signal for help with the exterior being bright orange. There also is survival and first aid instructions printed on the blanket. (MSRP $4.50)


In conclusion, I hope you are discouraged from freezing to death trying to use a mylar space blanket. I personally will never pack another; as long as SOL continues trying to keep us warm with the products listed above. 


http://www.adventuremedicalkits.com/products.php?catname=Shelter&cat=53

Spy-coins.com: MicroNickel

Luckily I had some "Confidential" stamped envelopes lying around for this picture

If the Dead Drop Spike isn't enough we got another covert concealment device from my friends over at Spy-Coins.com. This item is known as the MicroNickel. Spies in the past have used this same concept to pass or conceal Micro Films. These concealment coins are machined from ACTUAL coins. So they are indistinguishable when closed. When the Micro SD  card is in the coin; the weight is almost identical to an actual nickel. It can be carried amongst loose change and no one would know the difference.

With today's technology; we now have a way to carry even more information in hollow coins than micro film. As seen above, the MicroNickel is designed to carry a Micro SD card. Micro SD cards can carry tons of information and pictures-up to 32gb.

Two rings are also included to open the nickel. That way two people transferring information can open the coins. This also ensures the coins cannot be opened by anyone that's not supposed to have access to the information inside.

The other thing we like about the opening rings, is that they look like real rings. That way you can have them on your person at all times.





Your only limited to your imaginations with this MicroNickel. Instead of having your USB's locked away in your safe, this would be a safer way to store your sensitive information. By storing all files in the Micro SD card and then store it in the MicroNickel, your material will remain safe. 

Get yours at: http://www.spy-coins.com/producthtm/micronickle.htm

Watch me Baton and Start a fire without hurting myself

Heres a video demonstrating fire starting and batoning. Batoning your wood prior to starting your fire makes it easier to burn. The tinder sticks will be smaller diameter and fuzzed from batoning. Also the wood on the inside in usually dry even if the outside is not.

What is your Survival Knife?

Guys,
I know this is a highly debated topic, but I just want to see what you guys are using out there.
What is your survival knife? brand, type, steel, length, etc.? Give us details and why you chose it.


 Leave your comment below.

Strike anywhere you want...when its wet.

Strike anywhere matches my personal fave. They give you the opportunity to use them without a striking surface (whether lost or damaged).


I see a lot of guys dipping their matches in Paraffin wax to waterproof them. I absolutely am not a fan of this idea. On a hot day you will open your match case and a have a melted messy nightmare.

I'll go through what I do. You will need some clear nail polish (go steal your girlfriends), strike anywhere matches, and something to stab the matches into until their dry.

Then dip the match head and a 1/4" of the stick in the finger nail polish. Don't paint it on with the brush-takes way too much time and dipping ensures you cover the entire head of the match.

Then wipe off excess on rim. This is so it doesn't run down the whole stick and take 3 months to dry.

Lastly the matches need to be placed in something straight up and down so they can dry evenly. This will take around a day.

Some stuff we like and wanted you to know: Photon Micro light

This is the only micro lights that we dig here at Black Scout. In the upper right hand corner of the picture is the original. These days they come in a variety of models.

The original is activated by holding the button on, when released it turns off. It gets the job done, but we like options.


Then LRI came out with the Photon II that has an on/off switch. We included this model in the Black Scout Survival PSK-that you can purchase at our store. We chose this model because of the durability and that it can be used for signaling/illumination. Photons can be seen for over a mile.


Then LRI came out with options...The Photon Freedom is made for survival. This thing has S.O.S., slow, normal, and fast strobe. You also get a hat clip and lanyard for hands free lighting.

We also like the covert nose that narrows the beam and doesn't let your light spill all over the place as seen in the comparison below.

Anyways, We just really love these motherfreaker's. I've carried mine on me keychain for like ten years and its still shining bright. Great EDC light and thats why we included it in our Black Scout PSK.