I have contacted Adventure Medical about the kit they were working on with Doug Ritter. They informed me that it would be available at the end of Feb 2004. Does anyone know if Doug will carry it, so we can purchase it through ETS, and the ETS Foundation gets a donation?

Totally cool.

He could also autograph the kits with an indelible pen and, with a suitable markup, bill it as the Signature Edition -- perhaps for forum members only. Might mean a few extra bucks for the ETS Foundation.

Don't know about you all, but I'd happily pay extra.

Well, you are the third person to suggest something like that. I have mixed feelings about this, Sue is against it due to the hassle factor, <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> but if there is a great deal of interest on the forum for something like this I will seriously entertain doing something along these lines. It would be done as a favor to those of you here whom I consider supporters and friends, because it really is a hassle. If I do so, it would be sold at full retail ($27.50), plus a shipping charge of $5, I'm not about to mark them up extra. Anyone is welcome to add something extra to support ETS. It would have to be done by signing up in advance so we can process the charges and have the funds in hand when I place the order with AMK and so I can ship them all at once. I still don't have a ship date from AMK, but it won't be end of February, which is only a few days away. Mid-March would be the very earliest at this point.

Some issues to consider: The PSP is being packaged in a clear plastic clamshell pack (see image below). Would I sign the the PSP itself, or the clamshell? Also, bear in mind that my signature is illegible and at best looks something like "DR" in hastily written script (the residual of having to sign thousands of purchase orders one summer job when I was a teenager).

(NOTE: the production insert will have a few very minor differences from this prototype, and much better quality as this was printed on my inkjet computer at home. )

Cool. Sounds like a really good kit and a good way to support ETS. Sign me up for one. <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Wow, nice to finally see the actual thing! <img src="images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> Doug, can you tell us about the whistle? It looks quite large actually. Thanks.

Joern

Partly that's an optical illusion. The whistle is slightly longer than the ACME and slightly shorter than the ACR. It looks lots longer than the ACME because of the two-way lanyard hole which makes it wide where the ACME has just a protrusion. It is about the same thickness as the ACME and the width is about the same as the ACR at its widest, but a bit narrower at both ends. In terms of total volume, it is probably a wee bit larger than the ACR and somewhat larger than the AMCE, but it packs in the same effective space in the PSP that they took up and fits in the space envelope we gave Fox 40 to work with, which is all I care about. It was re-designed specifically for this kit. So, it may not the smallest, depending upon how you measure, but it is reasonably compact and it does perform better than either one in my tests.

"It would have to be done by signing up in advance so we can process the charges and have the funds in hand when I place the order with AMK and so I can ship them all at once."

Doug, please sign me up for a kit. I can be contacted at [email]mikespinak@photo.net.[/email]

Thanks.

--Mike

I will want 4. Will you ship to Singapore though?
<img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> Let me know the shipping costs.

chrisgn@bigfoot.com

If I do this, likely not a major problem. Obviously shipping will be a good deal more expensive and have to cover the additional paperwork and time to go to the post office and stand in line... <img src="images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" />.

This is just a proposal/feeler at this time. If there's enough interest, I'll set up a page with a form where they can be ordered. Will have to be interest expressed for at least a dozen "signature" PSPs for me to go forward.

The good folks at AMK may be willing to send a number of the kits pre-packaging for signing given your connection with the product. I don't think the lose of the clamshell and insert matter to most of the forum folks.

I have been researching the subject and generally collectors prefer that packaged items be autographed on the exterior of the package so that the item itself is in 100% original condition. The plastic used in the clamshell is also more stable and far easier to write on than the flexible vinyl of the PSP pouch itself. It is also just plain simpler for all involved.

I understand about the hassel factor. Life is crazy enough with adding to the overall chaos.

That said, I've gotten books and DVDs signed by authors and actors, and their signatures are illegible. It really doesn't matter. The "Cool" factor matters. Based on what you've said, however, I would have to say, don't bother. It simply does not look practical at this time.

Still looking forward to buying a kit or two, though, and adding in what I can as a donation.

-- Craig

Doug,

You can sign me up for two.

Now that is what I call an endorsement !!! Trusbx wishes to order four of the AMKs.

Count me in Doug...

I'll be more than happy to buy a few of them.

Matt

GASP!
On sale at aeromedix??!!

Pocket Survival Pak

I'll buy mine from Doug! <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

You are lucky guys, able to get your kit, right from the source of it.

But what about us, in Europe ?
Is a european reseller on the ranks, to distribute it here, on the other side of "the pound" ??

Maybe, all the european ETS forumnits (??) could pool together their orders and buy directly from Doug, saving on shipping costs (one shipment from US to Europe, and then redistribute to the individuals) ??
Any comment along that idea, folks ???

Or we could start exchanging Doug's kits against "foie gras" terrines (it looks like you will have a hard time to find that product in the States .......).
Anyone interested ? Chris ?? <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

I'd be interested in that Alain. <img src="images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Sounds like it might be a plan...

in what .... foie gras, Doug's kit or both .. ?? <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

I'll definitely be getting one. <img src="images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> The shipping cost shouldn't be too high actually. The kit should fit in a USPS Global Priority Mail Flat Rate Envelope for $5. I'm getting stuff from the US with Global Priority Mail all the time and it has cost $9 at the most. We just have to find someone who is willing to ship without insurance and tracking though. <img src="images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

The kit.... <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />.. although I have never had fois gras.....

I would buy 2 or 3 or maybe more .. I have to think about it ...
And as I don't plan to keep those kits as collector items, I would not bother Doug, asking for an autograph, on each package ..... <img src="images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />


Maybe we (european posters) could start a new thread to count how many kits we would buy ....

I asked AMK about European availability in september:


So I would also be interested to get a kit on my side of "the pond". Either direct from Doug, or via a group-buy with fellow Europeans.

Is that clamshell easy to open by hand? Or do you need a LARGE SHARP survival knife? Just wondering, I could see someone trying to using in the middle of nowhere, and suddenly realizing how difficult it is to open these new fangled sealed plastic boxes. Especially without a knife.

<img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> The clamshell is openable by hand, it is not fused closed. Actually, I had given this some thought when the need to pilfer-proof the packaging became an issue. AMK proposed the snap-together clamshell, which addressed any concerns I had that some person would just throw the kit, retail packaging and all, into their pack or glove box and then not be able to open it when needed. It provides for display of the kit and a modicum of on-the-shelf pilfer resistance that was required, without making it impossible to open without a blade of some sort, or the need for a warning label for those lacking even a smidgen of common sense. If we find the pilfering isa problem, even with what they have done, then we might have to resort to the warning label. I sure hope it doesn't come to that. <img src="images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" />

Alain:

I own Aeromedix and we will be carrying Doug's Kit and ship overseas. As you know, the problem really is pricing.

We can ship the kits (when they are available approximately mid March) vis US Mail for about $10 US. This is uninsured (buyer takes the risk) and takes about three weeks. We generally ship insured FedEx for about $25.

You can find more information at: www.aeromedix.com
or Email me directly at [email]brent.blue@aeromedix.com.[/email]

Brent

I read Aeromedix website, and they claim the fresnel lens can be used as tinder. <img src="images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" /> <img src="images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />

I am so misinformed as I always thought of its use as a magnifying device and/or firestarter. <img src="images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" /> : <img src="images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" />

Bountyhunter

Why is aeromedix.com listed as the manufaturer of the kit on your site ?
I don't like to nit pick but this is a glaring one to pick...
<img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

haha.
Maybe he meant that the survival instructions could be used for tinder (not a good choice for a someone in a survial situation with no prior experience... <img src="images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />)

that's not a problem, as far as I'm concerned



Yes, I know, indeed... !
A 28$ kit + 10$ shipping fees + 7,60$ custom's taxes
that's 45,60$ .... 63% more expensive ........... <img src="images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />

I would prefer to save on shipping and taxes and give some money to ETS foundation <img src="images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> ......

Let's see .....
One kit is less than 3 ounces (I reckon that's less than 100g).

1) How many kits could you put in a parcel and ship to Europe for 10$ ?


Draig, 03lab, Joblot ..... questions for you ......

2) In france, I would have to pay customs fees (19,6%) on the total price (goods + shipping fees).
Is it cheaper in UK or Germany etc... when receiving a parcel from the USA ?
AFAIK, there is no custom taxes, between european countries.

3) Sending a kit from France to UK or Germany or Netherland etc.. costs 2,60 Euros (if we add 100g of packaging) + 4,00 Euros for Registred Mail if necessary.
What are the postal fees from your respective countries (UK to FRance or Germany to France) ?

Sounds like a plan to me. I'm interested too.

OK....
How many kits could I ship to Europe for $10? I think thats one for our American friends.
Taxes? It depends on the value of the product,so it may be cheaper to import individually. The link below helps, but doesn't give you a formula to work it out.
I have bought goods from the US in the past for a total value (P+P included) of £22 - or about $35 (£1.00 = $1.61 at the time - check my maths!) and have had no problems or extra taxes. There is a link within the link entitled "notice 143.." which is the custums and excise page. It may help someone!
Ultimately if Doug wishes to quote me a price, inclusive of P+P and send me a kit, I'm willing to take the risk and pay any charges that may apply, and then tell you what I had to pay. $63 isn't a lot with the exchange rate as it stands now.
I doubt whether sending a kit to the UK and then on to France will be any cheaper. A to B direct is usually cheapest, although I haven't done my homework.
Heres the link:
http://www.britainusa.com/faq/showfaq.asp?SID=301
Martin

Signature or not, I'd like to get at least one kit, maybe more... and tack on a donation to the site in the same credit card charge to boot. Please keep us informed on the special page/order info.

Troy

Post deleted by Doug_Ritter

Dutch Customs/ information:
customs duty varies for different goods ( was unable to find any category for survival equipment )
19 % VAT

Value below EUR 22 ( currently = 27.3195 USD):
= no VAT and no customs duty

for gifts the limit is EUR 45

you only have to pay customs duty if they exceed EUR 10
VAT only if it exceeds EUR 1.59

I personally also have been charged a handling fee. (EUR 7.50) for packages. But that was a package (sent via EMS of USPS). Our national post (TPG) does not charge a handling fee.

Sending from the netherlands to within europe:
if it fits in the standard mailbox:
EUR 2.05 ( max 250 g) ( EUR 2.44 for priority mail)
otherwise
EUR 2.60 ( max 250 g) ( EUR 3.10 for priority mail)
registerd mail EUR 6.00

hey a dutchie !

i'm still thinking wheather i should try to get one of these kits, i personnally changed mine kits slightly... no more dedicated PSK for EDC, and a larger survival kit for wenn going out...

How about a sticker on the vinyl pouch? If you're using permanent marker, it should never run, and some of those stickers will stay stuck to anything. Especially vinyl. <img src="images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

The warning label should be something like:

"DARWIN WARNING: The packaging to hold this Survival Kit cannot be opened by the human body. To open, use a scaple blade or other sharp object to remove the packaging to access the Survival Kit. A scaple blade is included in the Survival Kit"

It doesn't make much difference to me where you sign it. Sign it in the place that will take the least time and effort for you.

--Mike

That is pretty much identical to German regulations.

I still think it is cheaper for us to order directly from the US. If we get someone to send us the kit with USPS and marked as gift, we won't have to pay duties and tax. Even when it is not declared as a gift, it will probably just slip trough from my experience. The shipping cost should only be $5 with USPS, $8 at the most. Avoid UPS, FedEX, TNT and the like, they will always file packages with customs and charge a handling fee.

I don't know yet, if I will buy my kit directly from ETS, but I will most likely throw away the clamshell packaging and carry only the kit on me. On the other side, some more aggressive inks may damage the vinyl and it will take more time to sign the pouch. <img src="images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />

The sticker might be a good idea. You could print out an adhesive page with ETS logos, put your signature below or next to it, slice the page a few times and then throw one sticker into each pack.

Oh well, just sign the packaging, that's easiest and fastest. <img src="images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

These are propably European Union regulations (the UK regulations looked identical)

After my investigations, I agree that it would be likely cheaper and definitely less hassle.

I guess you may be right ...

So, now we have to find someone on the other side of the pound, willing to bother to send us individually those kits ..........
And then the not simple matter to pay him .... how ?
* problem : for a small amount, a wire transfert when possible is not cheap.
* an individual will rarely accept Master Card or Visa .... <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />
* sending notes by postal service is forbiden and risky ...

well, well..... I guess I will wait until some retailler comes up, on our side or some friend flies over .... <img src="images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />

Alain, don't worry. There are quite a few stores like Aeromedix that ship overseas with USPS. A lot of people also have PayPal accounts that accept credit card payments. I'm sure we will find a source when the kit becomes more readily available by the end of march. I need to order one of those emergency bags I have been looking for anyway, so I'll even save on shipping then. <img src="images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

We are listed like that because I didn't do my job and review the page when my staff put it up. It will be fixed on Monday. Thanks for the heads up.

Brent

We probably can get four kits in a box for the same shipping fee via US Mail. The $10 is an approximation for western Europe.

Brent

Hi all

03lab is right: solely use USPS and have the package sent by a private individual as a gift with a declared value of under 45EUR. This is the only way you're not going to pay import duties, taxes (VAT) and handling costs in excess of 30 % on the full price + shipping cost. Import duties are the same in the whole EU, VAT may vary ranging from Luxembourgs 15% to Belgiums 21% (am I forgetting some poor guys who have to pay even more??). Ouch.... <img src="images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" />

Another solution would be a European distributor. Preferably one in Luxembourg or Germany (lowest VAT %) Once a package is sent from one EU country to another the VAT is paid in the country of the distributor <img src="images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" />

If any viable solution pops up, count me in for at least 2 kits.

Love to see it all come together

Luca

Fenchy,

Je suis entièrement d'accord avec vous, c'est un peu embettant d'être un européen de temps en temps.

I'm waiting for OutdoorSuppliesUK.com to have stock of the PSK's but that won't help in getting the signed versions. How much exactly will the shipping be?

Bonjour !

Si vous les trouvez chez un distributeur européen, faites-moi signe ...
A moins de demander au Vieux Campeur de les importer ... ??.....

I'm interested by the kits themselves, for my own usage and as gifts, so a signed version is not a priority.

Now available at REI:

Doug's kit

Huh? Has the whistle changed?

The kit in the photograph is one of the early prototypes and AMK are contacting them about getting it changed to illustrate the production kit with the Rescue Howler by Fox 40 and to correct a few other text errors.