Iv'e handled both. Every kit will reflect the individual philosophy, experience and regional expertise of it's creator. This includes units assembled by people like WSI who actually teach Survival. Add in the profit motivation of commercial units and quality/quantity may both rapidly decline. Asembling your own unit is eventually more satisfying. But if you want to 'jump start' your preparations these are certainly among the better ones. No supplier carries everything we all need or want. By the time you've tracked down everything you want, paid S/H and WAITED the cost comparisons are really meaningless. There are many good suppliers listed on site here. I can personally vouch for Blue Line outfitters, Exploration Products, Major SurplusNSurvival, Sparklite and Wiggy. I guarantee you will eventually discard or upgrade some of the pre assembled items with experience and actual use .<br><br>