Hi- this is my first post on this forum. I work at AMK in product development, and I want to thank you for your write up of the SOL. These are definitely usable comments, especially regarding the instructions (knots for the fishing line - good call there).

Some things you might be interested in...
1- the whistle decibel-tests as louder than the FOX40. Now, that's just straight decibels, and we haven't frequency tested it, so I can't come right out and say that it is a better or more effective whistle, especially in a survival scenario. But, at least it's LOUD!
2- packing the bag. This is where I've had the most input on this kit. Yes, everything is incredibly tight, and yes, the material on the front is frustratingly sticky. The trade-off here is that the front material is stretchier than on the original prototypes, which will allow you to fit in some extra gear (survival knife, water tablets, etc.) You have to cram it in, but this bag is exceptionally durable. The idea with the SOL is that you "deploy" it when necessary (or at least, that's my idea of it), not that you use it piece-by-piece. In other words, dump it all out and use it when you have to, and worry about repacking it when you're home again! Having said that, I don't want people to think of as a one-and-done deal like a survival sardine can, and with any new toy, you're gonna want to play with it when you get it home. So, this is a roundabout introduction to give you my super-top-secret packing tip for the SOL. Cut a 3x9 piece of silnylon, and wrap it around the heatsheet blanket when you put it in the kit. then, slide in the other components under the fabric (in between the heatsheet and the fabric), and yank the fabric out when you're done (or tuck the silnylon in the bag, close it up, and then everything will easily come out in the field). Obviously, this means you won't be able to see the contents, so there is a trade-off there. But, this cut production time on the SOL way down, so you may want to experiment with it.
3- the compass- it is indeed liquid filled. This is the same Ritter-spec compass we use in the PSP. We QA these pretty heavily, but if you notice that yours doesn't find north in a reasonable amount of time, let us know!

Okay, that's probably long enough for my first post. Hi everyone, and thanks for having me!

Be safe,
Jordan