I live in an arid region (very warm temps both day and night, little rain) and spend time running/hiking trails for fitness. My one over ridding concern is slipping and twisting an ankle or knee. The trails are somewhat isolated. But, should something happen if I set tight within 12 hours or so I’m sure to see someone else on the trail. No cell phone service in the area. So, below is listed the contents of the pack I carry on my runs, just in case.

fixed blade knife
utility knife
swiss tool
mini bic
ferro-rod,
band aids
pain reliever
antihistamine
jet scream whistle
star flash mirror
large, orange heavy duty space blanket
small garbage bag
micro light
orange poncho
24 oz bottle
compass
24” para cord
bandana
70 oz hydration sleeve

What do you think? What would you change?
Thanks, -S

I am not trying to criticize you in particular, but I noticed that many people here have more then one knife in their kits.
Why do you guys need a swiss army knife, a fixed blade and a multi tool? Wouldn't swiss army and multi-tool be redundant of one another? <img src="/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />

A few suggestions:

HD aluminium foil, stainless steel wire, sewing kit, tinder, if nessicary: water filter/tabs, chap-stick, sunscreen,
insect-reppelant, fresnel-lens, some food/snacks, shade-hat and a candle.

Also beef up your FAK: add a triangulair bandage and some adhesive tape.

i don't know how formiliar you are with the terrain, but it's always good to have a map and compass with you.

Ferrosium rod and a bic are good, but they are better with some tinder.

Map <img src="/images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" />

That utility knife looks like a Camillus Camp Knife. Good in its day, and useful, but heavy by modern standards. And, as someone mentioned, redundant with the Swiss Tool. I'd get rid of it.

I'll second adding a map. And maybe a headlamp. The micro light could use some backup.

Kevin B.

I would suggest bringing a couple of instant chemical ice packs and a wrap.

I would bin most of that gear in faviour of extra water. From what you are saying dehyration is your most serious problem. Keep the mirror, multitool, head torch and lighter. You also seem to be very concerned about a twisted/busted ankle or leg, so add a SamSplint and a hiking stick that can double as a crutch.

No because some of the most useful tools are duplicated on the SAK & the Multitool - which is good. The fixed blade knife will, as a general rule, take more abuse than any folder.

I still have mine and it still sucks. Won't take or hold an edge. I never carry mine, too many better alternatives.