OverviewBelow is a list of clothing and equipment recommended by Mike Rushton, a partner within Tamarack Outdoors. The list is not exhaustive, is constantly changing and is based on all seasons from foreshore to mountain in the UK. The " Mike says" paragraph is a hints and tips section written on personal experience using these items both working, living and playing outdoors.
Please remember that all the items on the recommended list are items that Mike uses on a regular basis. What he likes and recommends might not suit you as an individual. . To Check the full details of each product simply click the image
Mike Rushton
Mike has been living and working outdoors all his life. He kicked off in the Scouts, then onto the Army Cadet Force, and was involved in the Celtic Survival school at the age of 12. He was a British Army sniper and physical training instructor, is a qualified Arborist with over 20 years working with trees, has worked for Lancashire County Council as a Countryside Ranger, is a Mastercraftsmen drystone waller and has carried out many conservation tasks within Lancashire such as tree planting, wetland and habitat management and hedge laying. He has lived and worked with the Sami Reindeer herders of Northern Sweden and the Hadza Bushman of Tanzania. He is an avid open boat canoeist, camper, walker, snowshoer, dogsledder and environmentalist. |
 Base LayersFor a great all round base layer system Woolpower is best suited for all environments. Based on a Terry loop stitch and 70% Merino wool, it performs well and gives great breathability and moisture wicking, away from the skin. It comes in three weights 200g, 400g and 600g per square meter and has separate leggings and tops, with various configuration of zips, gilets, mitts and balaclavas.
"Mike says"
Woolpower has been a part of my kit for around 12 years now, and its an item I don’t leave home without. I generally wear a 200g top while moving around, but have a 400g gilet and 200g leggings in my pack. The advantage of using a high percentage of natural fibres within a garment proves well after long periods, as body odour is kept to a minimum, along with operating around fires. All Woolpower garments wash well around 30 degrees in a washing machine or hand wash also. I am still wearing the original 200g top from 12 years ago.
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 | Socks
The sock is of paramount importance while backpacking, as your feet are part of your transport. The Woolpower range are a good sock for medium to long term expeditions, and are constructed the same way as the rest of the garments ( see above ). They are hard wearing, and give good moisture wicking and insulative value as the garments.
" Mike says "
Another long term piece of kit that I have used over the years. I purchase 10 pairs of knee length 600g socks every 3 years, and remove the old socks from service. I use a three sock system with one on, one spare and one in the wash. Changing my socks every 2 to 3 days and ensuring I wash and powder my feet at the end of every day.
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 TrousersFjall Raven utility trousers come in many shapes and configurations to suit the outdoors person. The material is a poly/cotton mix, which gives good abrasion value, quick drying and can be repaired while outdoors. They can be treated with Greenland wax to give them a shower proof coating if required.
"Mike says "
The Fjall Raven trouser that I wear is the Greenland. Although quite expensive these days I have a pair over 6 years old and still going strong, that have been patched many times. The pocket configuration suits me as I carry my essential items on my person. The trousers take my folding saw, match vile and lighter, bandana, midge net, 2 strips of Magfire, headtorch,firesteel, penknife, midge repellent, mobile phone and a bar of chocolate. |
 | Shirts
Pinewood
The pinewood Geilo fleece shirt, is made of micro fleece, with two internal zip pockets.
" Mike says "
Great shirt to add into a layering system, and looks smart too.
The Pinewood Wilderness shirt is a cotton/polyester mix garment with two external chest pockets.
" Mike says "
Great shirt for those summer months, dries really quick too. |
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 Thermal LayerMontane
The Montane Flux jacket is a great thermal layer. It is very lightweight, shower and windproof. It is constructed of a Primaloft insulation with a Pertex outer fabric, has hand warming pockets and a hood.
" Mike says "
As well as having the Woolpower base layer system, it is an advantage to have an extra thermal layer to place over the top of every thing in periods of inactivity. The jacket is the first item out of my backpack when I stop for a break, immediately getting me out the elements. As soon as the break is over , the jacket is placed back in the rucksack. |
Wet Weather
Norrona
The Norrona Gore-Tex Recon jacket is an exceptional garment for extreme wet weather. Waterproof, windproof and with a high breathability, it also has good abrasion value with the main design in mind for the Norwegian military.
" Mike says "
Bombproof should also be added to the blurb. The only down side to this high quality garment is they don’t like fire so much. Had a jacket for a couple of years and is proving to be the best part of my kit. Keep it washed and reproofed with either Nikwax Techwash and TX Direct or Grangers 2 in 1, I reproof mine twice a year.
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 | Sasta
The Sasta Kaltio Trousers are a Nubuk reinforced Gore-tex trouser, with 2 pants pockets and a map pocket on the right leg. Treat the trousers the same as all Gore-ex garments (see above).
" Mike says "
These trousers are possibly the bests things I have had on my legs. I have been wearing a pair for nearly two years and cant fault them anywhere. The trousers are not an over trouser, so a change from my Greenland’s to these in heavy rain takes a little longer than applying an overpant, but this dissolves into insignificance in heavy rain. Not only are they 100% wind and waterproof, but the Nubuk reinforcements on the front of the trousers are great around an open fire. |
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VentileVentile is a 100% cotton fabric originally designed for pilots in WW2 for submersion suits. It is very hard wearing, great when the weather is cold and windy. Try Snowsled for there range of garments.
" Mike says "
Alas with the Ventile material shooting up in price, a lot of manufacturers are either cutting back or stopping production of Ventile garments. Tamarack used to have there own smock manufactured by Westwinds who no longer produce Ventile. I use Ventile a lot, having a single layer windshirt for 15 years. Ventile is great when it is cold and windy, and brilliant around fires and carrying out heavy work in the forest. I don’t like it when it is wet, it goes quite stiff. I wear it along side Gore -Tex, only putting my Recon jacket on when it is raining heavily.
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WindproofGutulia Anorak
The Gutulia anorak is a G1000 water repellent and wind resistant long jacket. It has a fully adjustable mesh lined hood, chest pocket, hand pockets and pit zips.
" Mike says "
The Gutulia anorak has been a long standing item for me both in Sweden and the UK. It will take a light shower well if treated with Greenland Wax, and is brilliant when the weather is cold and windy. The pit zips are a great advantage when working hard, the chest pocket carries all my essentials for the day such as GPS etc, and with the added advantage of being long in the body it is a great all round jacket. With the material being G1000, the jacket is also good around an open fire or wood burning stove. |
Extremities - Head
Sealskinz
The Sealskinz winter hat is a wind and waterproof garment with a porelle membrane and micro fleece inner.
" Mike says "
A great hat in all conditions, great design and fit. The peak is handy when using a sighting compass in heavy rain or winter sun. |  |
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 | Extremities - Neck
Buff
The Merino wool buff has loads of uses, good for wicking away moisture and can be used to keep the neck and head warm.
" Mike says "
I normally call these headovers, and don’t go anywhere without one. Can be used as a balaclava, beanie or pulled over the face in cold conditions. I wear mine while asleep, as its not advisable to exhale in your sleeping bag. |
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 Extremities - HandsHestra
Hestra are possibly the best glove manufacturer in the world. The All Leather C-Zone glove is waterproof, windproof and breathable.
" Mike says "
A brilliant all round glove. Can be used for moving cooking pots around an open fire, close fitting enough to operate a compass housing and great using cutting tools such as knife and axe. |
 | Hestra Neoprene Adventure
The Neoprene Adventure glove is constructed of pre-curved neoprene, has waterproof seams and PU dots on the palms.
" Mike says "
These gloves are ideally suited for watersports. I use them while canoeing in colder Spring/Autumn weather. However, I have recently used them within my walking equipment. The recent cold snap we are having i have used these gloves to great effect while breaking through ice to purify water, handling aluminium pots while cooking and a myriad of other uses.The only down side is if you are working hard, your hands sweat. This is not a problem while wearing the gloves, but if you have to take them of in cold windy conditions, your hands will get cold.So as long as you have another pair of warming gloves, this is not a problem. |
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 Hestra Army Leather Extreme MittThe Army Leather Extreme Mitt has a proofed leather palm and 4 way stretch softshell for the rest of the outer. It is insulated with fibrefill, and has a snow lock system.
This mitt is proving to be a great advantage with the current weather. As I have recently moved back into more mountainous regions, mitts keep the hands warmer, especially holding an ice axe. Tied in with the Neoprene Adventure and the All Leather C-Zone, my glove system is now complete for all weathers and activities i am involved in. |
 | Hestra Falt Glove
Falt Glove
A hard wearing glove made entirely of leather and with a removable wool Terry cloth / wool pile lining. This model is named after one of the leading survival experts Lars Falt.
" Mike says "
The Falt glove is a great item when the weather is cold and dry. With the latest cold snap in the UK, I dug these gloves out of my Swedish kit and used them extensively over this period. I used them in the forest for tree planting and driving the quad bike around, and still using them today. After the days work I removed the lining and dried them, and clipped the leather outers together and hung them in my vehicle to ensure they were dry for the next day.
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 | Boots
Meindl
The Meindl Dovre Extreme high leg boot with Gore-Tex lining.
" Mike says "
Good high leg boot for winter work, especially on Moorland or wet peaty ground. If you use foot powder, ensure you revive the breathability of the Gore-Tex lining by once a year washing the boots out with Nikwax Techwash. I apply Kiwi dark brown shoe polish every 3 to 5 wears to nourish the leather upper.
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 Meindl All terrain BootsThe Meindl All Terrain boot is a Gore-tex lined version of the famous Desert Fox. The Desert Fox has been extensively used by the military in both Afghanistan and Iraq over the past decade. The upper is Velour leather and Cordura, and combined with a multigrip sole unit.
" Mike says "
I am on my third pair of All Terrains in 5 years. Its not because they wear quickly, its because I hardly wear anything else while outside. For the output and comfort they give, coupled with a very light boot, I have found nothing else to match. |
 Scarpa MantaScarpa Manta ( Boot grade B2/ Crampon grade C2 )
Trail Magazines best in test. The Manta is ideally suited for hill, glacier, mountain and rugged terrain, and exceptional for extended crampon use,
" Mike says "
The Manta is the boot i choose for geting in some high mountain walking, especially in the Lake District and Scotland. Takes a little time and a slight change in walking style to get use to the more rigid sole unit, but is good on the approach, great for scrambling and tied in with the Grivel Air Tech New Matic C2 crampon is an excellent all round winter/mountain boot.
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Sorel Conquest Sorel Conquest ( Boot grade B0 )
The Sorel Conquest is a Thinsulate lined full grain leather and synthetic upper extreme cold weather boot. The boot is rated to -40 and has a high traction lugged sole with a snow lock system fitted to the top of the boot.
" Mike says "
I have had a pair of Conquests for around 2 months and I am impressed. I use them for winter work in the forest such as tree planting and surveying woodland etc. They have not got a removable inner shoe which is important if you are winter camping, so you can dry them out in your tent.However, the inside of the boots dry quickly ready for work the following day. The Thinsulate lining works best if your feet are warm and dry before you put the boots on, then you will have warm feet all day. |
 Meindl Nordkap Pro GTXMeindl Nordkap Pro GTX ( Boot grade B0 )
The Nordkap Pro has a multigrip sole, leather and nylon upper is Gore-Tex lined and has a removable fleece inner boot, and snowlock system.
" Mike says "
I have used the Nordkap extensively in Northern Sweden in the winter for the past 5 years. I have travelled on foot, Swedish army skis, military and traditional snoeshoes, dogsled and snow scooter, as well as spending nights out. Currently i have found nothing better that does all of the above tasks, while keeping my feet warm and dry. While staying in cabins or a tent with wood burning stove, at the end of the day i take out the inner boot and store them in my sleeping bag to dry them out and keep them warm overnight. |
 | Helsport Bivvy Boots
Excellent for inside your tent or cabin, water resistant with breathable upper and no slide soles, and insulated with Thermoguard 6000.
" Mike says"
I have just used a pair of the Bivy boots on a recent camping trip in the Lake District. After a day in the mountains with most of it on crampons it was a joy to come back to camp, wash and powder my feet, put on fresh socks and the Bivy boots. Within seconds my feet felt like they were glowing with heat, I even for a time wore them in my sleeping bag but found that this was too hot. The Bivy boots were a great advantage when I needed my 2am pee, which I can never figure out as I never need the toilet at home at this time. |
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CramponsGrivel Air Tech New Matic
This crampon is an all season chromolly steel 10 plus 2 point semi rigid design. It has built in the Antibott system that prevents snow build up between the points, and is compatible with the Scarpa Manta.
" Mike says "
A well made easy to fit crampon for use on snow and ice in mountain areas. As I only winter walk not ice climb etc, this crampon is every thing I need for those iced up tricky bits. The Antibott system is a revelation in crampon design, as i use to find in older crampons you were forever tapping out snow build up between the points with the shaft of your ice axe, the Antibott prevents this snow build up. It is adviseable that when not in use the crampons are fitted with crampon crowns to prevent injury and damage to your equipment, and stored in a crampon bag. |
Ice AxesGrivel Nepal S.A
The Grivel Nepal S.A ice axe is a non technical ice axe for treking, snow climbs and winter mountain walking. The carbon steel head and the curved shaft make the Nepal S.A a good all round ice axe.
" Mike says "
The S.A within the Nepal S.A is for self arrest. The curved shaft gives a better angle and more power to drive the blade into the snow if a slip occurs. Practising self arrest on gentle slopes is of great importance. I had a bad slip many years ago, but the practice I had put in previously helped me from injury.
NOTE: Crampon and ice axe use.
If you are not familiar with the use of crampons and ice axes,i strongly recommend joining a winter walking/mountain safety course. Or alternatively go with someone with relevant experience. |
 Rucksacks and BagsKarrimor
The Karrimor SF range is a hard wearing and robust carrying system, we recommend the Sabre 45 and the 60-100 litre versions, fitted with side pouches.
" Mike says "
The Karrimor SF range is a really good value, utilitarian and robust rig for heavy work in the outdoors. I normally use the 45 litre version for day hikes and study trips and for lightweight overnight stays, with the 60-100 litre version for longer trips where more equipment is needed. The military style rig suits me with a top compartment, separate side pouches and a double main compartment.
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Tasmanian Tiger Barrel BagsTasmanian Tiger barrel bags are great for storing all your equipment, especially if flying abroad. They come in 65, 85 and 130 litre versions, and fitted with grip straps and a hidden backpack system.
" Mike says "
Great bags for keeping all your loose gear in, or fitting out a storage system in your vehicle. Have many, need more. |
 | Tasmanian Tiger Documnet Bag
The document bag holds all essential paperwork and office stationery, it has a removal shoulder strap, a laptop pocket and large pockets for files etc |
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 Tasmanian Tiger File Server A4The file server has a A4 binder loop, with a spring loaded clip board and will hold note books and stationery.
" Mike says "
I have been using both the document bag and the file server for sometime. As I am mainly site based I need a mobile office to carry all paperwork and laptop etc. The file server fits perfectly inside the document bag, and both items carry all i need to ensure the dreaded paperwork and e-mails keep flowing. |
 | Duluth
All Duluth packs are handmade in Minnesota USA, we recommend the Monarch 3 with pack basket.
" Mike says "
If you want to go a little old time, the Duluth series fits the bill. I only use the packs for what they are designed for canoeing. I have had a Cal Rutstrum bag for 5 years, and it looks as new as the day i purchased it. Ultra hard wearing, this pack will stay in my family for generations. |
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 Dry BagsExped/ Sea to Summit
The dry bags we recommend are either the Exped or Sea to Summit range. Dry bags are an essential part of your rig, to keep things dry. They come in many sizes from 1 to 140 litre.
" Mike says "
Nearly all items in your rig, either canoeing, camping or any outdoor activity, should be in a dry bag. I pack all my items in individual colour coded bags for ease of use. I have food bag, possibles bag, extemiies bag and so on. Really essential kit. |
 | Tarps
Tatonka
Tatonka manufacture four different tarps 1,2,3 and 4. Differing in sizes and material from 4.25mx4.5m to 4mx3m. and made from either polyester or a technical cotton.
" Mike says "
A tarp is the most versatile piece of equipment you can carry, and when practiced can be erected in any environment from mountain to forest. I use the Tarp 4 polyester, with a cord system which allows enough room for separating the area underneath into an admin, kitchen and sleeping zones. I use the tarp all year round in many configurations and with a hammock also. |
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 TentsHelsport
The Helsport Varanger series of tents in a Tipi style come in 4-6, 8-10 and 12-14 man versions. They can be fitted with a groundsheet, an inner tent and a wood burning stove. They also do a lightweight version the Laavu light for backpacking.
" Mike says "
I have used the Helsport tents for a number of years both on Tamarack courses and overseas. They have proven their worth and expense many times over, especially in winter camping with the kettle boiling on the wood burning stove and the tent around 25 degrees celcius inside and minus 10 outside. The Laavu light has been a great bonus on backpacking trips as you can stand up inside the tent and it weighs roughly the same as a standard mountain tent. |
 | Hammocks
Hennessey
The Hennessey Expedition and Explorer hammocks are a great way to camp especially in the warmer months. They have a velcro seal and a sewn in midge net to cocoon you in a bug free environment.
" Mike says "
The Hennessey hammock is a great way to spend the night. It takes a little time to get use to sleeping in a hammock, but once you have mastered it your in for a comfy nights sleep. I have modified my hammock for my needs by replacing with 5m of climbing tape on either end, and fastening to the tree with a timber hitch. Always use a sleeping mat with a hammock, if you don’t you will get cold. |
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 Sleeping BagsHelsport
Tamarack only recommend down filled sleeping bags. Mike is currently trialling the Helsport Austfonna. |
 | Sleeping Mats
Exped
The Exped series of sleeping mats are of the highest quality. We recommend the down filled 9cm DLX for extreme cold weather condition and the synthetic filled 7 cm DLX for other environments. The Exped mats offer good comfort and insulative qualities and compress down to an excellent packsize.
" Mike says "
I have been using these mats for some years, and have found them to be ideal in all camping situations. The down filled 9cm DLX I use in northern Sweden in the winter, and placed straight onto snow gives excellent insulation. The synthetic 7cm DLX i use in all environments in the UK, within a tent, bivi bag or hammock.
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 Pacific OutdoorThe Pacific Outdoor Ether Thermo 6 has 6cm air cushioning with air loft thermo insulation, is very lightweight and compact sleeping mat.
" Mike says "
I have been giving this mat a go over the past few months and the signs are good. For the comfort and warmth coupled with a lightweight and small pack size, i think it will feature in my rig for a long time |
 Bivi BagsTerra Nova
The Terra Nova Titan bivi bag has an L shaped zip for ease of access, and is constructed of Gore- Tex material.
" Mike says "
A good bivi bag to hold your sleeping mat and bag in. Keep clean with Nikwax Techwash and reproof with Nikwax TX Direct. |
 | Water Purification
Steripen
Tamarack recommend the Steripen Adventurer for all water purification. The Steripen system uses ultra violet light to change the DNA of Viruses, Protozoa etc. It is fast and effective, with a given advantage of a solar battery charger for longer trips. |
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 | Source
The Source hydration systems are an innovative hydration system for you backpack. They come in 1.5, 2 and 3 litre capacity, along with a winter conversion kit.
" Mike says "
These hydration systems are a great bonus for you and your rig. Prior to this I had to stop, remove my pack have a drink replace my pack and move on. Over a period of time i was finding that I wasn’t stopping as often as i should to take on water, so getting more and more dehydrated as the day went on. These hydration systems have stopped all of that, as I can drink on the move without removing my pack. I always carry my hydration bladder in a winter kit for added protection against punctures. |
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 Ortlieb Water BagThe 4 litre Ortlieb water bag with optional shower attachment, is great for camp use.
" Mike says "
I have had one of these water bags for as long as i can remember. I carry it empty and as soon as i make camp i filter and purify my water and transfer it to the bag. I find the 4 litre version suits me for all cooking and washing in camp.
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 | Fire
Firesteel
The Army Swedish fire steel is an essential part of your kit. 12000 strikes, with every spark approx 3000 degrees celcius.
" Mike says "
Don’t leave home without one, essential for fire lighting and even lighting gas and trangia stoves. Takes a little skill to know how to use it to its full potential.
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 Snow PeakThe Snow Peak large fire place, with base plate, grill bridge, grill and grill plate, keep the fire or barbeque off the ground.
" Mike says "
Great piece of kit for the vehicle. I use mine a lot on the courses as well as listed campsites in the Lake District. Get your barbie going, once you have cooked and eaten, take off the grill and throw some firewood on. Leaves no fire scar, but ensure it is a safe distance away from tents and vehicles. |
 Head TorchPetzl
The Petzl Myo XP is a 3 watt LED head torch which is light in weight, has a boost button and a 65m range on full power. It has four settings with a power output of 75 lumens.
" Mike says "
A great lightweight headtorch to carry in your kit or a pocket. Ensure you carry spare batteries. |
 | Torch
Surefire
The Surefire E2L Outdoorsman is a compact LED torch, weatherproof with rubber O ring seals, has a 100 hour battery life using Lithium, a hard aluminium anodized body with tail cap switch.
"Mike says "
Bombproof all round torch . |
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 LanternColeman
The Coleman Northstar has a 220 watt output. It uses one mantle and runs on unleaded fuel on full power for approx 14 hours.
" Mike says "
The Northstar is a great companion around camp if you are vehicle based, it takes a little maintenance, but you must ensure you carry spare mantles and transport it in a carry case. |
 | Navigation Compass
Silva
The compass we recommend is the Silva Type 54 sighting compass.
" Mike says "
When I am out navigation is of paramount importance. The 54 gives me accurate bearings using the prism sighting within the compass housing. I have used one of these for nearly 30 years, and always carry a spare in my kit.
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 Navigation Romer CardCoupled with the compass the romer card is an essential piece of equipment.
" Mike says "
Although the 54 has a romer built into the base plate, you can take and issue more accurate grid references with a romer card always carry a spare. |
 Navigation Tally CounterThe tally counter is a major part or our navigation equipment.
" Mike says "
The tally counter is used for counting our paces while walking on a bearing. An important tool if you forget the amount of paces to a determined point. |
 Navigation - Map CaseTasmanian Tiger
The large map case will keep all your navigation equipment and documents in one place. |
 | Navigation - Note Paper
Waterproof note paper
"Mike says "
Rite-in-the-rain have revolutionised outdoor notation. Stowed in the Tas Tiger map case i have a note book for a journal and another for general notes and navigation. Use a pencil (HB), then once you have used your notes, rub them out and re-use the paper. |
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 First AidLife Systems
The Life Systems Mountain Leader first aid kit gives a good base, and is designed for groups of 1 to 14 people. The kit has been developed by Hugh Montgomery and special forces teams.
" Mike says "
The Mountain Leader first aid kit, coupled with some extras ( TCP, Painkillers etc ), forms a good basis for a comprehensive first aid kit. Ensure that it is kept dry in a dry bag, and can be identified by other people that is a first aid kit. Everyone who works and plays in the outdoors should have to hand at least a basic first aid kit, along with the relevant knowledge of how to use it. |
 | Emergency Bivvi / Bothy Bag
Adventure Medical
The adventure medical emergency bivvy and the thermo-lite 2, are essential items to be coupled alongside your first aid kit.
" Mike says "
The emergency bivvy is ideal if you are travelling on your own, with the thermo-lite 2 being in your kit if you are taking responsibility for others. Remember, both of these items you might use on other people rather than yourself, so always carry one.
Life Systems
The Life Systems Bothy 4-6 is a great quick shelter, it has an airvent with window and is made from hi-vis material.
" Mike says "
The bothy should also be part of your survival kit. Not always to be used in emergencies, it is ideal to get out of the elements on top of a hill. The bothy is a must if you are leading groups. |
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 Cutting Tools - KnifeFrost
The Frost Mora quicksnap is an easily maintained carbon steel knife.
" Mike says "
I believe a fixed bladed knife should be carried always in the outdoor. The quicksnap is a low budget, high performance knife that will do a million jobs well. Always keep the knife razor sharp and well maintained, and if you don’t know how to use it correctly and safely, learn.
The Mora crook knife 162 is a great tool for producing cups and utensils. This version is double edged.
" Mike says "
A nice tool to carry, especially if you intend to carry out woodcraft projects in the evenings around the fire. The Native American version of this style are essential in Northwood’s travel. |
 | Cutting Tools - Saw
Bahco
The Bahco Laplander folding saw.
" Mike says "
Another essential item if woodland camping. The saw is far more efficient and safer than using an axe. As previously mentioned I carry my Laplander on my person.
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 Cutting Tools AxeGransfors
The Gransfors Bruks Small Forest and Scandinavian axe along with the rest of the range, are a high quality tool for the woodsman.
" Mike says "
If there is anything more dangerous in the wrong hands its the axe. But in the skilled hand of the woodsman it is a tool that cannot be forgotten. The two axes mentioned above are the main axes I use on pretty much a daily basis. The Small forest is the most versatile, with the Scandinavian used more to effect in the pine and spruce forest. Used correctly and cared for they will last generations. |
 | Duluth Saw
The Duluth Bob Dustrude folding saw is essential in a main camp. Folds neatly on itself, with a 24" saw blade.
" Mike says "
When i first saw this folding bowsaw, I thought it wouldn’t last long, especially with all our students using it. Five years later and three blades its still as good as new, fantastic item.
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 LeathermanThe Leatherman Wave is a precision multi tool that anyone involved in the outdoors should carry.
" Mike says "
The Wave is a great tool to have in your kit. The Wave has the added advantage of having a engineers file and diamond steel, so is great for sorting out an axe that has got a nick in the cutting edge. I use the needle nose pliers as a disgorger when fishing, along with a myriad of other uses. Great piece of kit. |
 | Sharpening Stones
Spyderco
The Spyderco range of sharpening stones are constructed of man made Sapphires and come in many shapes and sizes. There are bench stones, pocket stones and a small set for sharpening those tricky blades.
" Mike says "
I have been using the Spyderco stones for sometime, especially the pocket Double stuff and the heart shaped rod. Coupled with the leatherman Wave i can maintain all my cutting tools to a high standard. I wrap the stones in an old t-shirt to prevent them from breaking, along with a vile of autosol and a small bottle of gun oil. |
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 Buck Diamond SteelBuck Diamond Steel
The Buck Diamond Steel is a small and compact cutting tool sharpener.
" Mike says "
Great piece of kit that has featured in my sharpening bag for a while. Good for axes and crook knives. |
 | Personal Hygiene
Lifeventure
All Purpose Soap
The Lifeventure All purpose Soap is PH neutral, biodegradeable and antibacterial and will lather in fresh or brackish water.
" Mike says "
This soap is great, I use it to wash myself and my clothes and can be used for washing food etc. |
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 Soft Fibre TowellThe Lifeventure soft fibre towel comes in many sizes, and dries 8 times faster than a normal towel.
" Mike says "
I have an assortment of these towels dependent on what I am doing, and hang them up for a while in a steady breeze they dry really quick. I also carry many other items in my wash bag, which of course is a dry bag. Foot powder, tooth paste and brush, nail brush, razor, and the Lifeventure steel mirror etc. |
 | Wilma Nordic Summer
Made from natural ingredients, this Midge and Mosquito repellent is a handy tin to keep in a pocket.
" Mike says "
Nordic Summer in my eyes is the best repellent I have used. I keep it in pants pocket in the summer and regularly apply it. Great stuff. |
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 O-Tom Tick TwisterDesigned by a vet the O-Tom ensures safe removal of ticks.
" Mike says "
The O-Tom is an essential part of my first aid kit. It seems every year the Tick population increases, it is paramount that especially in the summer months you check yourself for ticks every day and remove them immediately. On your return from the trip if you have picked up a Tick and start to get Flu like symptoms, immediately go to the doctor. |
 | Life Systems Midge Net
The Life Systems Midge net is designed to go over the head, it is made of multi filament Tricot material with a toggle drawcord.
" Mike says "
The midge net is possibly the hardest working item in my kit. Not only to be used as a head net, but can be used for a gathering bag, to hold raw meat away from flies, used as a fishing net and even as a giant tea bag for that special Tamarck Tea. Always carry one. |
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 Cooking StovesTrangia
The Trangia 25-5 is for 3-4 persons, contains a 1.75 and 1.5 litre pot, a frying pan, spirit burner, windshield/stand and handle. All pots and frying pan are nonstick.
The Mini Trangia has a 0.8 litre pot, nonstick frying pan, spirit burner, windshield and handle
The Trangia fuel bottles come in 0.5 and 1 litre versions, with safety valve.
The multi disc is a chopping board, collander and prevents the frying pan from being scratched.
" Mike says "
I just cant fault Trangia. I have used them all over the world and they have never let me down. For lightweight trips I take the Mini Trangia, stored inside a billy can. For longer trips or in a fixed camp i take the 25-5 even if i am on my own. The reason for this is the 25-5 pots are big enough to make two meals at once, so the next day I can re-heat a stew for example and have a quick lunch. Always carry meths in the Trangia bottle, I have seen and heard of some nasty accidents one fatal of people carrying meths in flimsy plastic bottles. Always ensure the burner is out and thoroughly cooled down before re-filling, and carry a spare O ring. The nonstick versions are worth there weight in gold. |
 | Tatonka Tea Pot 1 litre
The Tatonka tea pot is a stainless steel kettle, has folding handles and a tea and coffee filter.
" Mike says "
Great piece of kit if you like loose tea and real coffee as I do. It also has the added bonus of fitting inside the Trangia 25-5. |
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Cast IronVarious cast iron pots.
" Mike says "
Cast iron pots are great for a fixed camp and for feeding lots of people. You can roast, bake and fry. Ensure that they are well seasoned before use.
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 | Coleman Exponent Feather stove
The Exponent Feather stove is a robust multifuel stove operating on Coleman or unleaded fuel
" Mike says "
Great stove for a large group, amazing output and can boil a large billy can in no time. |
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Coleman 2 Ring Burner
The 2 ring burner has integral windshield and packs into it own carry case. Uses Coleman or unleaded fuel.
"Mike says "
Great stove for a vehicle and cooking for large groups. |
 | Kelly Kettle
The kelly kettle range has expanded in recent months. There are 3 sizes 1,1.75 and 2.5 pint, with optional cooksets for the 1.75 and 2.5 and the new pot support.
" Mike says "
Marvellous, a stove that never runs out of fuel. I always take one canoeing and have one in the back of my vehicle, ensuring a fresh brew all the time. Works better the worse the weather. |
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 AccessoriesGreenland Wax
For reproofing Fjall Raven garments.
" Mike says "
Great for putting that showerproofness to any G1000 material. Just rub into the material and tumble dry to melt the wax in. |
 Renaissance WaxRenaissance wax prevents rusting or tarnishing of metal.
" Mike says "
Great stuff if you are storing cutting tools, especially carbon steel. Just wipe down with white spirit to remove the wax. |
 | 550 Cord
550 nylon braided cord, with seven inner strands.
" Mike says "
Never go anywhere without at least 10 m of this stuff, thousands of uses. |
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 AloksakAloksaks are a high tech, innovative, transparent dry bag for keeping those essentials dry.
" Mike says "
Aloksaks are great for keeping mobile phones, cameras, money etc dry. They have a zip lock type fastener. For added security, all items in my Aloksaks are also stored in dry bags. |
Snow Spade Grivel Steel Blade
Grivels Steel Blade snow shovel is a lightweight (400g) multifunctional shovel with the added advantage of the ice axe can be fitted as a handle. without the handle fited it can be used in confined spaces such as a snow shelter.
" Mike says "
A great piece of kit for winter walking, especially if you want to stay in a snow shelter over night. |
