I recently heard that gloves made out of goat skin would be a good choice. Apparently they do not absorb water like cow skin. I think deer or elk might have similar properties. They are expensive, though. Filson sells them. A pair of inexpensive wool gloves (I use military surplus ones) would also be good to add. The main functions I look to provide are warmth and protection of my hands.

A Maglite with a photon conversion would fit well in the mess kit. The Mini-Mag uses AA batteries (which are also used in most GPS receivers if you carry one of those). I especially like to be able to use it like a candle (unscrew the lens and stick the base of the Maglite into it and you have a "candle"). I don't know if this size of Maglite can be converted with a photon bulb. Store the Maglite without the batteries installed and throw in a couple of extra batteries if you have the room.

Terry