Welcome back to Gear Up, your go-to guide for the latest in survival gear and preparedness tools. This edition is packed with innovations and tried-and-true classics that are essential for staying ready for any situation. From cutting-edge tech to reliable gear, we aim to equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to stay ahead of the game. Whether you're gearing up for the unexpected or fine-tuning your survival kit, join us as we take a closer look at this month's must-haves.

image of Sitka Equinox Guard Pants

Sitka Equinox Guard Pants

COLORS: Coyote, Lead, Optifade Elevated II, Optifade Subalpine, Optifade Waterfowl Timber
MSRP: $100
URL: sitkagear.com

NOTES

These pants are designed to provide comprehensive protection against insects while ensuring comfort and breathability in hot, humid conditions. Engineered with SITKA-developed fabric, the Equinox Guard Pants offer a lightweight, moisture-wicking solution that promotes maximum airflow. The raised internal grid pattern enhances breathability, while zippered leg vents with mesh gussets allow for heat to be expelled during high-intensity activities, providing the flexibility to zip up for added protection when needed. SITKA’s Scent-free Insect Shield material repels mosquitoes, ticks, ants, flies, chiggers, and midges (no-see-ums), reducing the risk of insect bites. Internal leg gaiters provide an additional layer of defense, preventing ticks and chiggers from crawling up your legs when worn under socks. Functional features include two YKK zippered side leg vents for ventilation and storage, a dedicated knife pocket, and hidden suspender attachment points.

image of Lacrosse Alpha Evolution

Lacrosse Alpha Evolution

HEIGHT: 17 inches
MSRP: $300
URL: lacrossefootwear.com

NOTES

Alpha Evolution Boots are crafted with features to enhance performance and comfort for demanding outdoor activities. The boots feature a 17-inch height and a slip-on closure for easy wear. Constructed with hand-laid, natural rubber over insulating neoprene, they offer both durability and complete waterproof protection. A jersey knit liner ensures quick drying and moisture-wicking, keeping feet dry and comfortable even during extended use. Equipped with a Vibram XS TREK rubber compound outsole, the Alpha Evolution provides traction on wet surfaces and responsiveness on unpredictable terrain. A rubberized EVA midsole adds cushioning and shock absorption, enhancing comfort during long treks. The fiberglass shank offers stability without compromising flexibility. Weighing 5.3 pounds per pair, these boots are rugged yet comfortable, designed to perform in temperatures ranging from 0 to 70 degrees F.

image of Tasmanian Tiger Small Medic Pack MKII

Tasmanian Tiger Small Medic Pack MKII

MATERIAL: 700D Cordura
MSRP: $119 – $139
URL: tasmaniantigerusa.com

NOTES

Tasmanian Tiger’s Medic Pack MKII was built for carrying essential medical equipment in the field. With a 3-liter capacity, this compact hip bag is designed for quick and efficient access to your supplies, featuring parallel zippers that allow for easy opening and closing. The LP MOLLE system ensures secure attachment to vests, hip belts, or other equipment-carrying systems, providing flexibility in how the bag is carried. Included is a detachable shoulder strap, allowing the bag to be used as a shoulder bag when needed. Interior fixation points for scissors and other tools keep your gear organized and ready for immediate use. Measuring 10 by 6 by 5 inches and weighing just 25 ounces, it’s lightweight yet sturdy, making it an ideal choice for medical professionals and first responders. Note: Medical supplies are not included.

image of Tasmanian Tiger Small Medic Pack MKII

Bushnell 30 Can Soft Cooler

COLORS: Blue, Green, White
MSRP: $150
URL: bushnell.com

NOTES

This cooler is engineered to keep your refreshments cool and secure, offering over three days of ice retention at 70 degrees F when pre-chilled. Designed with both durability and practicality in mind, this cooler is built to handle outdoor pursuits. The cooler features a waterproof and leakproof design, keeping surrounding surfaces dry. A generous capacity allows ample space for all your essentials, whether you’re packing for a picnic or a weekend getaway. The 3D front pocket, equipped with a hook-and-loop panel, provides secure and customizable storage for personal items like keys, wallet, or phone, keeping them easily accessible yet safe. Integrated bottle openers add a convenient touch, ensuring you’re always prepared to enjoy a cold drink without the need for extra tools.

image of Meopta OPTIKA5 2-10x42  SFP PA

Meopta OPTIKA5 2-10×42  SFP PA

STYLE: Zplex 1, ZPlus
MSRP: $450
URL: meopta.com

NOTES

The Optika5 2-10×42 SFP PA is designed to meet many hunting and shooting needs, with its classic 1-inch tube design and 5x zoom capability. It features an adjustable parallax from 10 yards to infinity, ensuring precise focus at any range. The 2-10×42 model includes second focal plane reticle options, such as the Z-Plex and MOA-based Z-Plus, catering to different preferences and shooting styles. Standard 1/4 MOA adjustments provide fine-tuned accuracy with each click, while the scope's 91-percent transmission rate ensures clear, bright images even in challenging lighting conditions. With a 12.1-inch length and weighing 20.8 ounces, the Optika5 is compact and built to withstand the rigors of the field. The scope also offers a generous eye relief of 3.54 to 3.39 inches, enhancing comfort during extended use. The turret elevation and windage ranges both extend to 60 MOA, providing ample adjustment for long-distance shots.

image of REVENANT CORPS Grackle – Blood Moon

REVENANT CORPS Grackle – Blood Moon

SHEATH: Belt Clip, Pocket Hook/Static Line, or both
MSRP: $130 ($155 with both sheaths)
URL: revenantcorps.com

NOTES

The “Blood Moon” edition Grackle is a precision-crafted tool engineered for those who demand both stealth and durability. Featuring a 1/4-inch Ruby red G10 construction, the knife has a double-edged, hand-sanded blade, ensuring sharpness and balance for various tasks. The Tsukomaki wrap, coated with epoxy, offers a secure grip while maintaining a traditional aesthetic, enhanced by a rayskin underlay that adds texture and authenticity. Accompanied by Carbon Fiber Print Ruby Sheaths, the Grackle offers a complete non-metallic system, ideal for environments where rust resistance and discretion are essential. If red isn’t your style, Revenant Corps offers various colors ranging from plain black to Toxic green or Bubblegum pink; a single-edged variant is also available.

image of Spy + Survival Briefing Survival Playing Cards

Spy + Survival Briefing Survival Playing Cards

TOPICS: Survival tips, hacks, and tricks
MSRP: $15
URL: spybriefinggear.com

NOTES

Former CIA Officer Jason Hanson shares his knowledge with 52 cards packed with life-saving knowledge that few people are aware of. Learn how to covertly set up an invisible tripwire with the “tired traveler” trick, ensuring you’re always aware of unwanted snoopers in your home or hotel room. Discover the truth about burner phones and how they can still be traced, a tactic often used by spies against criminal organizations. Get practical advice on how to wear your gear and backpack inside a vehicle. Even in a thorough frisk, carry invisible survival gear undetected, and use the “Spy Paper” trick to know if someone has entered your private space. Loaded with real-world survival strategies, these cards are both a useful source of knowledge and a fun way to pass the time playing card games with friends and family members.

Bear & Son Cutlery 4.5-inch Double Clutch IV

Bear & Son Cutlery 4.5-inch Double Clutch IV

BLADE: Clip Point or Tanto
MSRP: $290
URL: bearandsoncutlery.com

NOTES

The Double Clutch IV is an out-the-front automatic knife with a lightning-fast action. Measuring 4 1/2 inches, the aluminum handle provides a secure, comfortable grip, ensuring optimal control during use. The handle’s design features textured surfaces and ridges that enhance grip even in challenging conditions. The D2 tool steel blade with a Rockwell hardness between 59-60 delivers excellent edge retention and resistance to corrosion. It’s available with either a clip point or a tanto-style blade. The knife has a wide, tip-down pocket clip, allowing for easy carry and quick access. A lanyard hole adds to the versatility, providing additional carrying options.

image of FENIX TK20R UE Rechargeable Flashlight

FENIX TK20R UE Rechargeable Flashlight

COLORS: City Gray, Copper Camo, Metallic Sand, Tropical Green
MSRP: $140
URL: fenixlighting.com

NOTES

Fenix TK20R UE Rechargeable Flashlight is a high-performance lighting tool designed for demanding situations. Equipped with a powerful Luminus SFT70 LED, this flashlight delivers an impressive maximum output of 2,800 lumens, providing exceptional brightness for a wide range of tasks. The beam distance reaches up to 1,546 feet (471 meters), making it suitable for long-range illumination. Built with durability in mind, the TK20R features an aircraft-grade aluminum body with a HAIII hard-anodized finish, ensuring resistance to wear and corrosion. The flashlight is also IP68-rated, offering full protection against dust and water immersion up to 2 meters. Powered by a rechargeable 21700 Li-ion battery, it offers extended runtimes, and the USB-C charging port allows for fast and convenient recharging. Tail switches provide easy access to the five brightness levels and strobe mode.

image of CANA Provisions Personal Water DECON Kit

CANA Provisions Personal Water DECON Kit

SIZES: Single, 3-Pack, 5-Pack, 10-Pack
MSRP: $24 – $200
URL: cana-provisions.com

NOTES

This DECON Kit provides a comprehensive solution for securing safe drinking water in various environments. Compact and portable, it’s ideal for outdoor adventures, emergency preparedness, or travel. The included purification tablets are highly effective against bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms, making most water safe for consumption. Individually packaged tablets maintain their potency, allowing you to carry just the right amount for your needs. Anti-diarrheal tablets are included to fight dehydration in situations where contaminated food or water has already been consumed. A sturdy pouch offers protection for the tablets and also includes alcohol pads, adhesive bandages, and antibiotic ointment for treating cuts and blisters in the field. Designed with user convenience in mind, the kit features clear instructions and a straightforward approach to water purification.

image of HCO Strops Nomad Strop

HCO Strops Nomad Strop

DIMENSIONS: 2×8 inches
MSRP: $32
URL: hogcreekoutdoor.com

NOTES

The Nomad Strop is a versatile sharpening tool designed for maintaining a keen edge on various cutting instruments. Crafted with precision, this strop features high-quality leather that ensures smooth and consistent sharpening results. The leather surface is firmly attached to a sturdy wooden base, offering stability during use. This strop is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry on outdoor adventures or store in your workshop. Its design includes a comfortable handle for a secure grip, allowing for precise control while stropping. The Nomad Strop also comes with a convenient hanging loop, ensuring easy storage and accessibility when needed. Whether you're honing knives, axes, or other edged tools, the Nomad Strop provides a reliable solution for keeping your blades in top condition. Dimensions are thoughtfully designed for portability, and the durable construction guarantees long-lasting performance. This strop is an essential addition to any sharpening kit, offering a simple yet effective method to maintain a sharp and polished edge on your tools.

image of Winfield Watch Company Chronos - PVD

Winfield Watch Company Chronos – PVD

WATER RESISTANCE: 200 meters
MSRP: $495
URL: winfieldwatch.com

NOTES

The Chronos PVD is a robust and stylish timepiece engineered for those who demand both functionality and durability. This watch features a 44mm case crafted from PVD 316L surgical-grade stainless steel that ensures longevity. The unidirectional bezel is equipped with clear markers for precise time tracking, while the 3mm Flat sapphire crystal glass with anti-reflective coating offers clarity and protection against scratches. The Chronos is powered by a VK 63 Mecaquartz chronograph, providing consistent and accurate timekeeping. The dial is designed with luminescent hands and markers, ensuring visibility in low-light conditions. A date window at the 4:30 position adds practical functionality to this timepiece. It’s water-resistant up to 200 meters, making it suitable for various aquatic activities, and the screw-down crown enhances its water-tight integrity. The Chronos PVD also comes with a both a two-piece Horween leather strap, and a one-piece nylon pass through strap in a four-pocket waxed canvas case.

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