We are trying to resurrect our high power rifle team at our gun club, and I was speaking with one of the former team members about gear and such. He brought up an interesting idea, that plays well with our ideas here.

When he started, he took an empty tool box and put a few items in it. Every time he needed an item that wasn't in the box, he'd get it, add it to the box, and never remove it. If he needed the same item elsewhere, if he couldn't use it and immediately replace it in the box, he wouldn't take it out, he'd get another of the same item for the other use.

I thought this translated well here. Start with a basic EDC, FAK or WTF ;-) and add as you see fit. As many have brought up before, kits vary based on individuals, locations and needs. The key though, is never remove an item that you really needed, because the odds are good that you'll need it again.

My pockets arent that big!

I subscribe to this methodology. When I find something I need, something that works better, etc I typically slowly buy enough of those items for all my kits. I keep a list in my little blackbook (really, it is little and black <img src="/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />) of what I need for each kit, and cross it off as I get it. Some of my replaced gear gets cycled into kits where it still fulfills my needs or I give it to other members of my team who cannot afford new cool toys (unless the item is junk, than it gets round filed).

The best kits are built one piece at a time!

I think for us the best place to start is a Cody Lundin "98.6" or Ritter PSP + extras. Then take each area: Fire, First-Aid, Navigation, Shelter, Water, Food and tools and play with your PSK items and try different items until you find what works best for you and you are willing to carry.

I have a CamelBak Blowfish that is my PSK/BOB/Day Pack. I keep looking at each area and trying different items to see if anything works better than what I have. If it does, I replace it. I have no loyalty to any item if there is something better.

I look for light, small, effective and easy to use. One handed use it also important. <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />