ILBob,it is not the entry wound that a tampon is for.It is the exit wound of which can be sizably larger.Hand gun wounds do not generally have an exit.It is rifle wounds that do.I am saying this in a hunting/accidental discharge idea.Tampons can also be used to improvise a crude water filter.I know it does not get out all the nasties but it can remove a lot of sediment before boiling or chemical treatment.Water filters can and have broken on people.Maxipads are an easily available and cheap option for a compress bandage.In the Navy and SEABEES we would call battle field dressings maxipads.Triple antibiotic ointment works for me.The last thing I want is to die from a staff infection from a splinter when an antiseptic or antibiotic can take care of it.JMHO,YMMV,etc.....

BOATMAN
John