JETPACK BAG

First a disclaimer, I have no affiliation with this company.

I build my own or use off-the-shelf kits to modify or to build larger kits. I look at a lot of off-the-shelf kits. This, I think, is one of the few note-worthy ones.

http://jetpackbag.com

Jeanette Isabelle

Interesting. All these pre-built kits seem a little over-priced, but at least JetPack apparently uses a quality backpack. The SOLO JETPACK Bag description indicates it uses a Condor Assault pack; I have a Maxpedition Condor pack and that's not it. It looks very much like a Maxpedition Falcon II -- maybe not. Is there a Condor pack that's not from Maxpedition?

That said, if it is a Maxpedition pack, there's a lot of weight in the nylon. It's a very tough backpack.

Nice set-up; def. a good place to start.

I am not all that impressed, especially if one is preparing for the aftermath of an earthquake. This might be OK as some sort of BOB, but preparing to flee is not always a rational response to an earthquake. For one thing, fleeing may not be feasible, if indeed possible, after an earthquake.

I almost always have a problem with preassembled kits; this one includes some things that I would not include (light sticks, for example). For another, I definitely prefer a headlight rather than a generic flashlight. I am sure we all have our own choices and will be more comfortable if we rely on them rather than an arbitrary choice based on the need to assemble a profitable package.

Agree. The "Condor" (Maxpedition Falcon?) bag itself may be a good starting point, then you pick your own components for your particular situation. I swapped my Condor for a lighter weight Camelbak. Pick your tools, FAK, light(s), food and options for water, and anything you think is needed and go for it. No sacred cows -- if you need it, add it; if you don't want it, dump it. Start with a clean sheet of paper and build your own.

As said, I look at a lot of off-the-shelf kits. Most of them include cheap stuff (quality and price). It is my assumption that companies make them to cash in this market and price these kits to sell and people who buy them get a false sense of security because they have a kit though the kit includes junk and is lacking.

I don't believe any individual or company has batted a thousand. This is no exception as there is room for improvements in their kits. Contrary to the kits I would not depend on in an emergency, I see that the designer has put some thought into it and these kits do have some quality items. While I'd rather use a kit I built myself or built with my mom, I would feel comfortable using this kit in an emergency.

Jeanette Isabelle

Wow! I finally noticed the prices - $400 for the duo and $300 for the solo. They should be able to make a profit.

Almost anyone should be able to find roughly 50% of the items within their existing stores, especially if they do anything outdoors. It is trivial to improve on their items in many cases - I would prefer a one quart repurposed sport drink bottle (and even more) to their small container since capacity is everything. As Montanero pointed out in his recent thread, water is pretty critical, even in a flood. Their protective gear is reasonably decent, but lacks head protection. A construction grade hard hat is better than nothing, but I prefer (and stock) helmets designed for caving and climbing - much better protection. One could go on.....

One good thing about the kit - their pry bar is equipped to turn off gas - good job!

I prefer, especially for earthquakes, the recommendations right here on ETS - http://www.equipped.org/earthqk.htm

I thought a part of the process is assembling the kit yourself. That means figuring out what you're preparing for, what skills you have -- and therefore what equipment you'll need to use those skills, etc. Buying a pre-assembled kit is sort of like buying someone else's preparation.

Good looking although a bit overpriced. Apropos of nothing am I the only one disappointed to find that it doesn't contain a jet pack?