heat them with a lighter till red hot and then slowly bend them with a multi-tool

Hey,

I run with a standard mini-PSK (similar to D. Ritters Homemade Kit) then supplement around it with event/location specific equipment.

I include matches, mini-bic, sparker, whistle, fishing kit, cordage, mirror, etc in the mini-PSK but often back it up with better stuff plus my EDC gear.

Things like fish hooks and needles I always seem to be able to squeeze in a mini-PSK during assemble to fill the small spaces. Small or flat things are easy, larger odd shaped things like a Bic or Fox 40 are tougher.

Mike

don't feel bad BMT. I think there are at least a few of us (myself included) that do the same thing with their gear on a regular basis. I've spread out everything several times this winter and spent a lot of time sitting and scratching the old noggin.

Heat it up in a fire for a while to ruin its temper.

Oops, BMT beat me to the answer.

-Blast

Think of the fishing kit as strong cord and hooks that can also be clips or ties. And you can use the line to catch birds which are everywhere.
Try fixing your boots or the sac that's carrying 60 pounds with duct tape, instead of needle and thread. Or sewing leather without an awl
The Sock

Versatility is why I modularized my psk/bob a long time ago. I keep the kit contents inventoried at home, and equip according to the needs of the pending excursion. Better to have a shelving unit full of seldom used but valuable supplies than to carry an 80 lb pack around all the time.

I really like the way you think. You may have given me a very good idea here.

Thanks for sharing

Reevaluating the stuff in your kits is you thinking about the uses things have, and thinking about the compromises you are making when you choose things. Pulling your stuff out, looking at it, handling it, and putting it back in gets you familiar with it, should you ever need it.

Do I need the three knives I brought with me to work this morning? No, it's just a sign that I have a knife problem. If I thought it wouldn't cause problems, i'd be tempted to wear a big sheath in my NYC Office. Knives come with me, in part, because, like many, I like knives. Part of your thoughts should examine what may be left out and could really help, so you can carry something because you simply want it or more of something. I think one of my knives may find a home here in my office, jsut in case I should ever come in with my EDC/PSK kit.

And your stuff needs to change for the environment and activity. When you are out in the middle of the woods, with plans on staying for the weekend, maybe you need to bring the axe. When you are simply going for a hike for a matter of hours, then maybe the axe stays behind and your bring the machete.

So once in a while, break all your stuff out on the floor, turn on the TV, crack open a decent beer and think about what you need and want, and then put it all away and get another cold one.

ha. I REALLY like the way you think.