Beginner gear

Let's see if we can't put together an inexpensive outfit suitable for a new outdoorsman/bushcrafter that provides the maximum bang for the buck. I'll be using what's readily available here as my basis so your final results may vary due to location.

1. Ontario 18" machete
2. Frosts of Sweden 760-O
3. Victorinox SwissTool
4. US Military 1qt. canteen (2)
5. US Military poncho
6. 550 paracord 100'
7. US Military Musette Bag
8. Swedish Army 5-piece Trangia cookset
9. Doan Magnesium Firestarter

You're probably talking about around $100 for everything and you've got edged tools, shelter, water, food, and something for carrying everything. Top that off with some jerky or freeze-dried food and you're ready for a day in the woods.

These are not necessarily my first-choice items (i.e. Doan versus Firesteel) but they're some of the least expensive and most effective pieces of gear I've had the ability to try.

This might be a kit you could build for a Scout (boy or girl,) a young teenager looking to gear up, a "loaner" kit that can be used by a friend, etc. You could even use this kit as a sort of personal challenge. Get to know the components, maximize their potential, and then you can teach someone else how to use it.


Thanks for reading,

B