Welcome back to our dive into the world of gear! In this edition of Gear Up, we explore the latest innovations and reliable classics that are key to staying prepared for any challenge. From cutting-edge technology to time-tested tools, our focus is on equipping you with insights and information that keep you one step ahead wherever the journey of life may take you. Whether you're bracing for the unknown or fine-tuning your preparedness kit, join us as we unpack the must-haves for this month.

Spy Briefing Gear Tactical Spy Pen

NOTES

Engineered as a multifunctional tool, the Tactical Spy Pen is made of a solid block of metal and features a pointed tip. This design allows it to serve as a self-defense tool, capable of stopping an attacker. Additionally, it can be used as a glass-breaking device in emergency situations. It also has a fully functioning pen feature, rounding out its design as a versatile tool. In a crisis, having a tool that can be rapidly deployed against a threat can mean the difference between safety and danger. The Tactical Spy Pen also comes with a 45-minute training video, providing insights into carrying, spotting threats, and other strategies.

Studio photo of the Tactical Spy Pen by Spy Briefing Gear.

COLOR

Titanium

MSRP

$35

URL

spybriefinggear.com

Condor Tool & Knife Terrachete Machete

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Meet the Terrachete Machete by Condor Tool & Knife. This versatile machete is crafted for everyone, from the seasoned woodsman to the casual outdoor enthusiast. With a blade length of 14.6 inches made from 1075 High Carbon Steel and a Condor Classic finish, it's built to endure harsh environments. The ergonomic thermoplastic handle ensures comfort and control, while the unique grind design offers a tougher edge near the tip and a more controlled carving edge near the handle. Weighing 25.4 ounces, it's substantial yet manageable. The extended pommel adds to its functionality, and the high-impact polypropylene sheath with a leather belt loop ensures safe storage. Whether you're navigating through dense brush or engaging in precise carving, the Terrachete Machete is a reliable cutting tool you can count on.

Studio photo of the Terrachete Machete by Condor Tool & Knife.

MATERIAL

1075 High Carbon Steel

MSRP

$70

URL

condortk.com

Artisan Cutlery CJRB Hyperlite

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The CJRB Hyperlite J1922B is a fixed blade knife that's a unique blend of functionality and lightweight design. Created in collaboration with outdoor and bushcraft enthusiast Joe Flowers, this knife is a cross between a wide bushcrafting blade and a tiny machete. With a 4.2-inch AR-RPM9 powdered steel blade, it features a powerful full flat grind and a wide fuller to reduce weight. The comfortable G10 handle ensures a firm grip in various positions. Weighing only 3.5 ounces, it’s one of the few featherweight full-sized fixed blades, making it an ideal hiking companion or a backup to a larger fixed blade or ax. The sand polish finish adds a touch of elegance, and it comes with a rope and sheath for convenience.

Studio photo of the CJRB Hyperlite by Artisan Cutlery.

WEIGHT

3.5 ounces

MSRP

$60

URL

artisancutlery.net

Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Hunting Kit

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Cold Steel’s Click-N-Cut Hunting Kit is designed for outdoorsmen who want to maintain quality without adding unnecessary weight to their pack. This field kit offers five interchangeable blades, including a 3.5-inch caper blade, 4-inch skinning blade with gut hook, 4-inch general-purpose blade, 5-inch boning blade, and 6-inch bone saw. The textured handle provides an easy grip, enhancing the user's control and precision. The kit also includes a case for convenient storage and transport. The Click-N-Cut Field Kit is positioned as a go-to option for many hunters and fishermen, with a wide range of blades for their specific needs. Overall, it’s a versatile tool that could be a valuable addition to an outdoor enthusiast’s gear, offering multiple blade options in a single, lightweight package.

Studio photo of the Click-N-Cut Hunting Kit by Cold Steel.

BLADES

5

MSRP

$100

URL

coldsteel.com

Grim Workshop Pocket Survival Fishing Knife

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In a survival situation, the ability to catch fish can be lifesaving, providing essential nutrients. Grim’s Pocket Survival Fishing Kit is a versatile and compact tool designed for both novice and experienced fishermen. It includes a card caster handline fishing reel, fishing lure card, specialty hook survival fishing card, line card with deployable waxed line, survival tip cards, and a fishing accessory storage tin. The entire kit weighs under 3 ounces and fits conveniently in a pocket or tackle box. The reusable hooks and lures, made from high-grade stainless steel, offer durability and rust resistance. Included tip cards with information on jug fishing, trapping, and improvised fishing lures adds value for survival scenarios. Whether for kayaking, camping, hiking, or as a backup in a bug-out bag, this kit offers practical solutions for fishing needs.

Studio photo of the Pocket Survival Fishing Kit by Grim Workshop.

SIZE

2.25 by 3.75 inches

MSRP

$45

URL

grimworkshop.com

Kokopelli Rogue-Lite X

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The Rogue-Lite X by Kokopelli is a packraft designed for adventure enthusiasts. Constructed with DuPont Kevlar from floor to sidewalls, it offers a strong strength-to-weight ratio, making it extremely durable. Weighing 10.4 pounds and packing down to the size of a paper towel roll, it’s suitable for lakes, oceans, and Class I rivers. The Rogue-Lite X includes an Inflation Bag, Inflation Tube, Compression Strap Set, and Emergency Repair Kit. Its Leafield D7 valve, 5-inch inflatable seat, and auto pressure relief valve add to its functionality. Lightweight and compact, the Rogue-Lite X’s design allows for quick deployment in emergency water crossings or as a means of transportation across bodies of water.

Studio photo of the Rogue-Lite X by Kokopelli.

WEIGHT

10.4 pounds

MSRP

$1,099

URL

kokopelli.com

Mission First Tactical MFT Belly Band Holster

NOTES

Designed for activities such as walking, jogging, hiking, and biking, the MFT Belly Band Holster offers a versatile carrying solution. Made with 3D Spacer Mesh Fabric, it ensures efficient airflow and comfort, while its Open-Air Weave Construction hinders bacterial growth. Safety is enhanced with a Hard Laminate Trigger Shield, and two Elastic pockets allow for carrying spare magazines, knives, or flashlights. Additionally, two secure YKK Zippered Storage Pockets can hold essentials like cash, keys, or a phone. Ambidextrous and fitting waist sizes from 26 to 52 inches, this holster provides a secure and comfortable way to carry essential items. For situations where it’s not viable to wear a traditional gun belt and Kydex holster, this belly band holster is a practical and discreet option.

Studio photo of the MFT Belly Band Holster by Mission First Tactical.

STYLE

Ambidextrous

MSRP

$50

URL

missionfirsttactical.com

AXIL XCOR

NOTES

AXIL’s XCOR earbuds are a unique blend of technology and practicality, designed to enhance and protect hearing. With a 29dB Single Number Rating (SNR), these earbuds offer features that can be vital in challenging environments. The Hear Control allows users to be aware of their surroundings, while the Digital Hearing Protection compresses loud noises instead of shutting them off, safeguarding against damaging sounds over 85 dB. This ensures that you can still hear essential sounds while being shielded from potential harm. The earbuds also come with Bluetooth audio, enabling connection to devices for whatever is on your playlist, and the ability to answer calls or texts. With a battery life of up to 12 hours for Hear Control only, and water, dust, and wind resistance, these earbuds can be a reliable companion in situations where maintaining situational awareness and communication is crucial.

Studio photo of the XCOR by AXIL.

CONNECTIVITY

Bluetooth

MSRP

$349

URL

goaxil.com

Pnuma Outdoors Palisade Puffy Jacket

NOTES

The Palisade Puffy Jacket by Pnuma Outdoors is engineered to withstand various elements. This lightweight jacket offers exceptional warmth through innovative insulation technology, coupled with a water-repellent and quick-drying outer shell. Features like YKK sealed Aquaguard zippers, an integrated stuff sack, fitted hood, and Polygiene treatments for odor control make it a practical choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Weighing 25.6 ounces, it’s made of 100 percent polyester with a blend of synthetic and down insulation. In challenging conditions, where maintaining body heat and staying dry are essential, having a warm jacket can be a vital asset.

Studio photo of the Palisade Puffy Jacket by Pnuma.

COLORS

Beluga, Caza

MSRP

$310

URL

pnumaoutdoors.com

Thin Air Gear Wide Track Deployment Bag

NOTES

Designed for those who need to be prepared for any situation, Thin Air Gear’s Wide Track Deployment Bag offers a blend of functionality and durability. Measuring 30 by 20 by 11 inches with a capacity of 6,600 cubic inches, this bag is constructed from robust 500D MIL-spec Cordura fabric. It features a 9-inch cloth pull handle, 14-inch retractable handle, and 4-inch polyurethane HD wheels, making it both wheelable and hangable. The 360-degree closed-cell foam protection and ballistic nylon back add to its resilience. With YKK #10 lockable zippers, seven interior storage pockets, and a tan 420D pack-cloth interior, there are plenty of accessible organization options. The 3D aerospace mesh and double-stitched/bartacked construction enhance its longevity. This bag provides immediate access to necessary tools and equipment.

Studio photo of the Wide Track Deployment Bag by Thin Air Gear.

DIMENSIONS

30 by 20 by 11 inches

MSRP

$339

URL

thinairgearusa.com

Vyper Kydex Tourniquet Carrier

NOTES

Vyper Kydex’s Tourniquet Carrier is a must-have accessory for those who understand the importance of immediate response to trauma. Crafted with industry-standard .08 Kydex and equipped with steel hardware, this carrier offers adjustable retention and is available with either belt or MOLLE attachments. It’s specifically built to accommodate the North American Rescue CAT Tourniquet series, ensuring a perfect fit. The design prioritizes quick access without any special actions; just yank it out and it’s ready to use. Whether you’re in the military, law enforcement, or other public safety roles, having this carrier means that a vital piece of kit is always within reach.

Studio photo of the Tourniquet Carrier by Vyper Kydex.

COLORS

Black, Coyote, OD Green, Storm Gray

MSRP

$45

URL

vyperkydex.com

Bubba Goose Design The Wolf Pack

NOTES

Introducing the Bubba Goose Wolf Pack, a backpack designed for both lightweight convenience and heavy-duty performance. Available in three sizes — narrow, regular, and wide — it’s tailored to fit a wide range of body frames. Crafted from U.S.-milled military surplus 1000 denier Cordura and reinforced nylon laminate, it promises durability and a lifetime of use. Weighing less than 2 pounds makes it relatively easy to carry, while the padded Alice Pack-style shoulder harness ensures comfort. The exterior pockets, large zipper pocket, and neon green signal panel add functionality and style. Hand-sewn in Seattle, Washington, and assembled from U.S.-milled fabrics, it’s a great everyday rucksack.

Studio photo of The Wolf Pack by Bubba Goose Design.

VOLUME

21L (+10L for outside pockets)

MSRP

$230

URL

bubbagoosedesign.com

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