It seems some people are very focused on the gear. I'm not saying that good quality gear isn't important. Almost more important is that people know how to use what they have. As has been stated time and time again, the people on this forum are ETS even when we can't carry gear. That's because we use our minds to consider alternatives. Plans and alternate plans have become second nature to most of us. But I think that we have to remember how most of us got to where we are in our thinking, planning and gear choice. It's a process!

Dr. Phil is fond of quoting Maya Angelou, "You did what you knew how to do with what you had, and when you knew better, you did better." (or something like that)

I agree that a pre-made kit could offer a false sense of security, if the person never bothers to explore the kit. True, a pre-made is usually going to have lower quality of gear than most people here would be comfortable with. But, could we survive with that gear? Probably. I would feel much more comfortable or confident with gear that I've used, and tested under various conditions, because I have a better idea of what the gear can do. But improvisation is one of the key components of survival.

One of the first things I did to prep at home was figure out a water storage system that I thought would work for my situation. Then I got a few containers and filled 'em up. Then when I could afford it, I got a few more. Then I thought, "Geez, maybe we better get some food stored". I add things to my EDC and car kits as I can afford them too. I started out with a BSA Hotspark, and later got a Magfire Pro. Is there anything wrong with the Hotspark? Not really. Do I feel more comfortable having the Magfire on hand? Yes! But it is a process!

I started out with a Gerber paraframe folder. Now I carry a mini RSK M2.
Started with a mini Maglite, now I carry an Arc AAA, Inova X1 or X5 and a DR Freedom Photon.
The process is all about learning and growing. Start out with a pre-made BOB, but LEARN about the contents and their uses. Don't just feel oh, so superior because now you're "prepared". Learn how to use it, and learn how to upgrade it. But the most important thing is to never stop learning. And learning means doing too. Don't just read about how to start a fire, or purify water or put up a shelter. Practice it...a lot! My philosopy (as I've said innumerable times) is "If I have to think about it, I don't know it well enough". That may be a bit much for some people, but the point is, like Gretchen Cordy said in "Prepared to Survive"..."practice using the things in your kit to make a shelter or obtain water..."

<the preacher stops preaching>

Can I get an Amen? <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />