Gear Reviews
Honest, in-depth reviews of the equipment you trust with your life. We buy it, break it, and rate it so you don't waste money on junk.
Petzl Actik Core Review: The Hybrid Headlamp Solution
Rechargeable for daily use, alkaline for the apocalypse. The Petzl Actik Core solves the "dead battery" anxiety with its brilliant hybrid fuel system.
Klean Kanteen Single Wall Review: The Survivalist's Cup
Why do preppers love a water bottle that gets hot? Because you can boil water in it. We review the Klean Kanteen Wide Mouth Single Wall.
Leatherman Wave+ Review: Is It Still the King of Multitools?
18 tools, replaceable wire cutters, and a 25-year warranty. We tested the Leatherman Wave+ against rusty fencing and hardwood to see if it deserves the hype.
SOL Emergency Bivvy Review: A Sleeping Bag for Your Glovebox
It weighs 3.8oz and reflects 90% of your body heat. Is the SOL Bivvy worth $18, or should you just stick to the $1 Mylar blanket?
NAR CAT Gen 7 Tourniquet Review: Don't Buy a Fake
This $30 strap is the only thing standing between a severed artery and death. We review the North American Rescue CAT Gen 7 and explain how to spot the deadly counterfeits.
Uberleben Zunden Ferro Rod: Fire in Any Weather
Lighters run out of fluid. Matches get wet. A ferro rod works for 20,000 strikes. We test the Uberleben Zunden against wind and rain.
Baofeng UV-5R Review: The $25 Radio That Changed Prepping
It's cheap, illegal to transmit without a license, and absolutely essential. Why the Baofeng UV-5R is the "Gateway Drug" to emergency communications.
5.11 Rush 24 2.0 Review: The Gold Standard of Bug Out Bags
We tested the most popular tactical backpack on the planet. Is the 5.11 Rush 24 still the king of 24-hour bags, or is it just overpriced nylon?
EcoFlow DELTA 2 Review (2025): Still the King of Blackout Power?
We tested the EcoFlow DELTA 2 against a full-size fridge, power tools, and the competition. With 0-80% charging in 50 minutes, it is the best mid-size power station on the market.
Sawyer Squeeze Review: Why It's The Only Filter You Need
We tested the legendary Sawyer Squeeze against muddy lake water to see if it deserves its reputation. 100,000 gallons later, here is our verdict.
Gerber StrongArm Review: The Indestructible Budget King?
We abused the US-made Gerber StrongArm to see if it lives up to the hype. Full tang, 420HC steel, and a modular sheath make it a serious contender.
ReadyWise 120 Serving Bucket Review: The Math Doesn't Lie
Is the famous "Emergency Food Supply" actually enough to keep you alive? We analyze the calories, the taste, and the real value of the 120-serving bucket.