xbanker, thanks for the advice. I will definitely experiment with a more heavy-duty plastic bag that would serve also as a water container. After all, I could always move the first-aid gear into my pockets to free up the bag for water.

I tried carrying the knife on my belt in a pouch. People noticed. In the work culture I inhabit, carrying a knife is very uncool, so I returned it to my M-1.

You're right about the design weaknesses of the M-1 pouch. Can you recommend another product?