Thanks for the reply.<br><br>>>>20 ft. Brass Snare Wire<br>>>>What gauge do you recommend? <br>>>>Let space in the kit dictate that. I like the largest gauge I >>>can find which I think will stop a rabbit,... because I'll be >>>using it for other purposes, too.<br><br>I would also surmise that it needs to be thin enough to remain flexible enough to use as a snare. I suppose I'll have to learn how to do that and try a few gauges. After all, what good is the wire in the kit if I don't know how to use it? ;-)<br><br>>>>2 Condoms (Penrith Survival Equipment)* <br>>>>Is there a alternative? I am an Asst. Scoutmaster and I'm >>>not ready to introduce young men to a condom, possibly >>>for the first time. <br>>>>I can't think of an alternative as small or portable. How >>>about the Platypus bag type canteens?<br><br>In practice, I alway have carried many "survival" items with me on hikes and trips in my fanny pack. That includes two sport water bottles. Some of these items, such as first aid items, are used, even in non-emergency situations (i.e., mole skin for hot spots or blisters). I would view the kit as an emergency CARE package. Something I'd seal up and not use unless it's an emergency. To this extent, it would be worthwhile to include condoms and/or a suitable replacement. What about ballons? I know they're not sterile, but neither would the condum after the first use. Or a latex (surgical) glove. That might be a bit large and aukward, but it would work. And I wouldn't have any ... err ... explanations to offer to the Scouts. :-)<br><br>>>>10 ft. H.D. Poly/Cotton Sewing Thread <br>>>>I also do beading projects and most beaders use a nylon >>>covered cotton thread that's very durable. Would there be >>>any problem with substituting? Also, what thickness or >>>gauge is best? Nymo comes in several sizes from very >>>thin gauge for small beads to very thick for heavy glass >>>beads?<br>>>>Since I may want to use the thread for a suture, I guess >>>I'd stick to the cotton HD (or Carpet) thread myself. But >>>instead I carry several pre-threaded needles/sutures I got >>>from a surgeon friend. Sterile for suturing, but you can >>>easily sew up a clothing rip with it. <br><br>Beaders have used carpet thread but consider the Nym o to be a step up in durability. The nylon covering also slides well through the holes, which is important if you need to run more than one thread through a bead. I would also wonder if the nylon would be easier to sterilize if one needed to sew up a wound. Cotton is rather porious. The prethreaded suturing kits are a great idea. I'll be seeing my physician for my physical before summer camp, so I can ask for these. But, again, I also need to be aware that it may not an appropriate item for a minor (Scout), unless it's supplied by their gardian.<br><br>>>>Have fun with this. And make the scouts do more of the >>>research!<br><br>I have printed of Doug's lists and his article on outfitting the London to Sidney helicopter. Great reading even if much of it doesn't apply directly apply. But the thought and methodoly on what's include, why and how is truly a facinating learning tool.<br><br><br>Willie Vannerson<br>McHenry, IL