Cody Lundin says to have one kit to play with and one to keep for emergencies. I’m bad!

I have stuff in my pockets, Camelbak, SUV, at home and work. For me it makes the most sense to use every item, any chance I get. I want to be as familiar with my stuff as possible. I want to find out what really is useful and what is junk. It does not matter how expensive something is, if it is not useful; it is junk!

Useful: Coghlan’s emergency tinder.
I went camping with our Cub Scout pack last weekend. We used the Emergency Tinder so each scout and adult could see that it is possible to start a fire with a ferro rod instead of matches. Each person had a turn to start a piece of Emergency Tinder with a ferro rod. I was surprised how excited some of the adults were at starting a fire with a ferro rod and Emergency Tinder. The boys always love starting fire. Some of the older boys then wanted to find natural tinder that would light with a spark. I pointed out some dry grasses I had tried before.

Useful: Band-Aid in wallet.
On a short hike (¾ mile), we were picking up trash as we hiked. My son got a small cut on his hand. I was able to pull one out of my wallet faster than you can read this.

Not useful:
Knives you have to use two hands to open. Sorry SAK fans! Let me pull my finger out of your eye.

If you are not using your PSK items as often as possible, you will not be familiar with them or know what works best for you. To me, a PSK that sealed in a container and not practiced with; is going to provide less utility than one you have become familiar with. If you have been using your stuff you will know when things should be replaced.

Desert Rat, where in Arizona are you located?