Guardian556 is teaching a winter survival course in Murphy, NC on Jan. 31/Feb. 1. If you want to attend, please send an email to Alan Kay <guardian556@yahoo.com>.
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Here is a recommended basic list for a lightweight winter pack:
Backpack. Military poncho, shelter sheet, basha, or tarp (big enough to cover your body, but not too big).
Poncho liner, woobie, lightweight fleece blanket or similar.
Grabber all weather blanket, aka casualty blanket (earthtone with grommets around the edges).
Four contractor grade trash bags, ( Home Depot).
Balaclava made of wool or polyprop). One pair of wicking base layer thermals , upper and lower, and one pair of socks in a waterproof bag, (dry bag, macsac, ziplock).
50 feet of 550 cord or tared bank line ( fishing section at Wal Mart).
One pair of gloves fast drying material.
One water filter, Sawyer Mini, ( camping section at Wal Mart $20).
Toilet paper in ziplock bag. One small flashlight or head lamp.
Water bottle, ( I use stainless so I can boil in it).
Fire starting kit, bic lighter, magnesium block,or ferro rod.
Sleep gear (what follows are some that I use):
Military issue modular sleep system / Recon 3 / SOL escape bivy, ( order the od green bivy not the puke orange one).
Some rations, ( I like MRE crackers).
A cutting tool that you are comfortable with; knife, hatchet, machete etc.
NOTE – Bring a note pad and pencil. Come dressed for the weather (layers) . Remember, cotton kills! Also, we will maintain a fire all night and keep extra gear at the ready. You will not be allowed to freeze to death.
