How much is too much for a newbie?

[brozier]

I'm going through a similar process at the moment being a newbie.

Won't get an axe just yet, I've bought a BCB wire saw as even a folding saw is a bit iffy with UK knife laws.

Definitely have some sort of backup stove in case your fire lighting skills let you down can't get much cheaper than a hexamine stove :-
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/british-army-hexamine-cooking-stove-/290800636539?pt=UK_Collectables_Militaria_LE&hash=item43b511927b

The BCB Crusader cup fits in nicely and will also work for cooking on an open fire. Other option would be a Alpkit Ti Mug - that will slot outside a Nalgene trail bottle...

Fire steel - longer is easier to use, cotton wool with or without vaseline (petroleum jelly) works great with the fire steel. A little tin with some charred cloth(old jeans) and fire lighters and / or tea lights will increase your options.

Main thing is to go out for short trips and see what works for you and make sure you have a plan B if something new doesn't work out.

This guy has some interesting ideas on budget kit :-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nAPNtca7RGQ&feature=relmfu

And BushcraftMyWay keeps things simple and fun :-
http://www.youtube.com/user/bushcraftmyway

Cheers
Bryan

 

[Big Stu 12]

On my own I would find a 4.5x3 unwieldy for short camps, but for longer terms it might have something to offer. For either of them you might want to find a spot sheltered from the wind.

I find the physical size of the XL and the 3x3 when in their stuff sacks not to dissimualar, yes may be the XL a tad larger, but that dont effect me, they will fit easly in a side pocket of a bergan, with room to spare...

 

[Inky]

Hi there, just thought I would reiterate a few things people have said. Sleeping mat wise I have a Thermarest Neoair and I can highly recomend it. Packs down tiny and weighs nothing but very comfortable. Bit pricy but worth it IMO. A gortex bivi is a must but looks like you have that covered now (no pun intended). I would take a folding saw over an axe and take a decent knife. Tarp wise I use the British army issue basha in winter, find it gives me enough cover, very waterproof, but to be fair not the lightest thing in the world. As a general rule I'd say if in doubt leave it out. You'll survive!

 

[BStone]

Just to update you on the purchases I've made so far.


The following has been bought:

US Army Modular Sleeping Bag
Mora Robust
Fallkniven DC4
Bahco Laplander
Light my fire Army firesteel
Imco 6700 triplex

As a bonus, Ray Mears Outdoor Survival Handbook too.

 

[BStone]

Yet another order placed. This time for the following:

Folding cup (200+600ml)
Swedish Army Trangia
Can opener
Hip flask (important!)
First aid kit
Duct tape
Sewing kit
Small waterproof box for fire tools


Looks like I pretty much just need a sleeping mat and tarp before I'm ready to go

 

[Scots_Charles_River]

Get a couple of the - Israeli Bandages - as they can be used one handed on a big cut.....

Definitely go for cheap ex army stuff eg the gloves, mitts etc are good hard wearing kit and cheap.

 

[BStone]

Scots: Should have the FAK covered by now. Have quite a few big dressings here, so will throw a few of those in the FAK once it arrives.


Things are starting to arrive in the mail by now - so exciting

 

[Scots_Charles_River]

Maybe get out out and test some kit !

 

[BStone]

Scots: Of course, but getting the gear in hand kind of supercedes the whole "getting out there".

However, I am indeed looking forward to getting a bit of fresh air

 

[Scots_Charles_River]

You can do some day trips eg go out and set up the in rain, have a cuppa under it.

 

[monkey spanner]

A wash kit & toilet paper.
You'll be surprised how many people forget this essential kit.