Best Overall		Coway Airmega AP-1512HH	SEE IT
Best Budget		AROEVE Air Purifier	SEE IT
Best for Cars		IQAir Atem	SEE IT

Every year wildfire smoke creeps farther and farther across the United States, exposing the importance of having an air purifier for smoke. While the casual smoke exposure of a campfire or outdoor barbecue typically won’t negatively affect your health, prolonged exposure to AQIs in the 100 range or higher can leave you coughing and wheezing, struggling to breathe with eyes stinging. Wildfire smoke can majorly impact human health for just about anyone, but children and senior citizens are particularly at risk. If you haven’t already purchased one of the best air purifiers for smoke, here’s a close look at some of the top options in this category.

• Best Overall: Coway Airmega AP-1512HH
• Best for a Kid’s Bedroom: Winix 5500-2
• Best for Large Rooms: Blueair Purifier Large Room
• Best for Cars: IQAir Atem
• Best Budget: AROEVE Air Purifier
• Best Air Quality Monitor for Smoke: Airthings View Plus

Why Air Purifiers for Wild Fire Smoke Are Important

I’ve been using air purifiers for smoke since September 2020, when outdoor quality levels in Seattle, where I live, oscillated between “very unhealthy” and “hazardous” for five days. My daughter was one year old at the time, and knowing the correlation between smoke inhalation and health outcomes (particularly asthma), I wasn’t taking any chances. Since then, we typically turn the air purifier on at night or when something burns on the stove, keeping a spare HEPA filter in the closet in case of another smoke event.

Two types of particulates typically get measured during smoke events: PM 2.5 and PM 10 (PM here stands for “particulate matter”). The numbers refer to the size of the smoke particles in micrometers, with PM 10 being 10 micrometers or shorter and PM 2.5s being 2.5 micrometers or shorter. According to the CDC, PM 10 are irritants for the eyes, nose, and throat (dust from the road and pet dander would fall into this category), white PM 2.5 is small enough to enter your bloodstream. According to the EPA, this can affect both your heart and lungs, increasing your risk of cardiac arrhythmias and heart attacks, asthma attacks, and bronchitis. Young children and the elderly tend to be the most at risk. 

How I Tested the Best Air Purifiers for Smoke

For this test, I focused on PM 2.5, knowing that increased PM 10 levels are strongly correlated with PM 2.5. To artificially create an environment with increased levels of 2.5, I went into an enclosed space (my bathroom) and burned a small amount of carbon material (a napkin). I used a Temtop Air Quality monitor to check how high PM 2.5 levels in the bathroom went, turning on the air purifiers once they were more than 250. I also tested for the IQ Air Atem in my car (a Toyota 4runner).

I recorded the time for the air purifiers to drop to below 50 PM 2.5, 10 PM 2.5, and then below 1 PM 2.5. For comparison, governmental guidelines suggest keeping 24-hour exposure levels below 35 PM 2.5, with a long-term (annual) target of 15 PM 2.5. 

Read Next: Best Air Quality Monitors

The Best Air Purifiers for Smoke: Reviews & Recommendations

Best Overall: Coway Airmega AP-1512HH

Coway

SEE IT

Key Features

• Weight: 12.5 pounds
•  Time to filter PM 2.5 from 50 to 10: 2 minutes
•  Energy Usage (low to high): 7 to 64 watts

Pros

• Works well for bedrooms, but can pull double duty in living rooms if needed
•  Handle on the top and lightweight enough to move around easily 
•  Indicator light turns red when particulate matter levels are too high

Cons

• Includes an air ionizer that can be detrimental to health if used
•  Melodic tones whenever you press a button can be an issue with small children

The Coway Airmega is the first air purifier for smoke I purchased, and it’s still what I would recommend to most people. It’s aesthetically pleasing, quiet on all but its highest settings, and it was a top performer in filtering out PM 2.5 levels. It only took three minutes for it to cut PM 2.5 levels down from 570 to less than 50 in my test, and two more minutes to cut it down below 10. PM 2.5 levels were below 1 in only eight minutes total. 

While this unit isn’t for large spaces, I’ve had it pull double-duty more than once, purifying the air of my entire 880-square-foot home. It usually needs to be cranked up to the highest setting to do this, but it gets the job done, and it’s not often that you’d need to purify the air throughout your home anyway. 

I do have a few quibbles with the Coway Airmega. The first is that its indicator light is quite bright, causing a noticeable blue (when the air quality is good) glow in the room when the lights are off. It also includes an air ionizer, which is used to catch larger particles in the air. The only trouble is that this uses ozone, which is detrimental to human health in its own right. Finally, the melodic tones it sings whenever you change a setting or turn on the unit are extremely attractive to children—mine would run over to start mashing the buttons whenever I changed a setting. 

Best for a Kid’s Bedroom: Winix 5500-2

Winix

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Key Features

• Weight: 15.4 pounds
•  Time to Filter PM 2.5 from 50 to 10: 2 minutes
•  Energy Usage (low to high): 7 to 69 watts

Pros

• Performed as well as the Coway during testing
•  Handle on the top and lightweight enough to move around easily 

Cons

• Less aesthetically pleasing and slightly more obtrusive than the Coway
•  Has cute melodic tones and a bright blue light (but less abrasive than the Coway)

For me, the Coway Airmega’s ionizer—coupled with my child’s love of pressing buttons—makes this one a no-go for her bedroom. Fortunately, during testing, a unit performed at the same level as the Coway and was a lot harder for her to mess with: the Winix. At the same time, it suffers from the same problems as the Coway (melodic tones that chime whenever you press a button, a bright light that gets covered with a cloth at nighttime, an ionizer that produces a small amount of ozone (although not so much as to be a health risk). The buttons were less distinct than the Coway’s, and the height and angle of the display didn’t as closely mimic the display of a typical child’s toy. It’s not perfect—a high-performing air purifier without the chirping and the ionizer would be ideal—but it ultimately caused fewer issues than the Coway. 

The only thing I didn’t like about the Winix is that it’s just big—taller and less attractive than the other best air purifiers for smoke I looked at. Keep this one tucked away in the corner of your child’s bedroom, set to the lowest setting, and only look at it when you need to change the filter. 

Best for Large Rooms: Blueair Purifier Large Room

Blueair

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Key Features

• Weight: 13 pounds
•  Time to Filter PM 2.5 from 50 to 10: 1 minute
•  Energy Usage (low to high): 33 to 73 watts

Pros

• High performing during my test
• Aesthetically pleasing
•  No music when you press a button

Cons

• Comparatively difficult to move
• Sensitive controls are easy to brush against

While the other top air purifiers in my test pulled in air from only one direction, the Blueair Purifier pulled it from every direction. That didn’t make a big difference in my test (in an enclosed space), but that would help in a larger room by increasing the volume of air it’s taking in. And the Blueair is actually nice enough looking, and quiet enough to do just that. 

I also appreciated that its controls were comparatively simple, with just one button that didn’t try to sing me a lullaby whenever I touched it. Unfortunately, the button is also surprisingly sensitive. Time and again, I would find that the unit was either off or on high because my leg had brushed against it without my noticing. 

The other downside to the Blueair is that it could be easier to move. Picking it up from the sides causes the top to come off; it must be picked up from the bottom. 

Best for Cars: IQAir Atem

IQAir

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Key Features

• Weight: 6.3 pounds
•  Time to Filter PM 2.5 from 50 to 10: N/A
•  Energy Usage (low to high): 1 watt

Pros

• Easy to install
• Extremely quiet

Cons

• Did not purify air very well
• Difficult to adjust while driving
• Expensive

One of the biggest challenges with a smoke event is cabin fever—getting stuck inside your house while you wait for some wind or rain to clean the outdoor air can be taxing. So I was excited to try out the IQAir Atem, which is an air purifier specifically designed for your car. It attaches to the back of the driver or passenger seat headrest inside your vehicle and plugs into the car cigarette lighter. It’s also quiet—easily the quietest unit I tested of the lot.

Unfortunately, it just didn’t work very well. Of course, the testing here looked a little different: burning a napkin had a more deleterious effect on air quality inside my car than in my bathroom. The PM 2.5 levels shot above 999, at which point I turned on my car’s fan to get the air moving and then turned it back down again a few minutes later when it started to drop below 900. Twenty minutes into testing, PM 2.5 levels were still at 140. It wasn’t doing nothing, but it was working so slowly that I would likely arrive at my destination before the air quality in my car improved. If you can purchase a HEPA filter for your existing cabin filter, that is almost certainly a better investment than this product. 

Best Budget: AROEVE Air Purifier

AROEVE

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Key Features

• Weight: 3 pounds
• Time to Filter PM 2.5 from 50 to 10: 8 minutes
• Energy Usage (low to high): 8 to 24 watts

Pros

• Affordable
• Low electricity usage 
• Very small size

Cons

• Not as effective as larger, more expensive units

It can be hard to justify the price of an air purifier if you’re preparing for a possible smoke event rather than living through one currently. So I tried out the AROEVE, a budget brand that’s often available when more high-end units are out of stock, to see how it worked.

During my test of the AROEVE, the PM 2.5 level ended up shooting up to 820, the highest level during my main test. I took the air purifier about 8 minutes to get PM 2.5 levels below 250, and another nine minutes to get them below 50 again. Twenty-five minutes from the start of the test, PM 2.5 levels were below 10. 

While not as impressive a performance as the Coway Airmega, Winix, or Blueair, this is a great unit to have on hand in the event an unexpected smoke event wafts in through the windows this summer. 

Best Air Quality Monitor for Smoke: Airthings View Plus

Airthings

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Key Features

• Both battery and USB-C option
• Measures temperature, humidity, radon, PM 2.5, PM 1, CO2, and VOCs 
• Connects to a smartphone app

Pros

• Extremely long battery life
• Ability to set up alerts for PM 2.5 levels

Cons

• Expensive
• Less intuitive user interface than my best overall pick
• Took the longest to note the change to PM 2.5 of anything in my test

The Airthings View Plus won top marks in my test of the best air quality monitors, thanks to the sheer number of pollutants it tracked and, importantly for air smoke events, its ability to set up alerts. The app for the Airthings air quality monitor provides detailed information on the exact levels of its various measurements. The actual device shows you two of the measurements at a time. You can customize this to show the ones you are the most interested in, including PM 2.5 and PM 1. 

While you can plug this air quality monitor into the wall using a USB-C cord, it can also be powered via six AA batteries (which are included). When I received this air quality monitor in the mail about two months ago, I set it up (including the online app) and turned it on, but did not plug it in using the USB-C wall charger. It’s still going strong. I’m assuming the battery will eventually give out, but this is a great option if you’re looking for something cordless. 

Things to Consider Before Buying an Air Purifier for Smoke

HEPA Filter

If an air purifier for smoke doesn’t have a HEPA filter, don’t even bother purchasing it. These are the only filters capable of filtering out the particle size that can cause the most damage to our cardiovascular and respiratory systems. In fact, if you can find a HEPA filter, but not an air purifier during a smoke event, many people have successfully lowered their PM 2.5 levels by simply taping the filter to a box fan and letting it run. 

HEPA filters need to be changed on a periodic basis, so check the manufacturer instructions to determine when the best time to do this is. If a substantial smoke event hits, it’s a great idea to change your HEPA filter after that as well. 

Square Footage

Typically people purchase an air purifier for smoke for their bedroom (and children’s bedrooms), and then a second one for their main living area. The ones in your bedroom can typically be smaller and less powerful than the ones in your main living area, as they circulate less air. 

Energy Consumption

Air purifiers use a fairly substantial amount of energy, as much as 70 watts, during our testing. Keep an eye on the setting of your air purifier—the lower the setting you can get away with to achieve optimal air quality in your home, the lower your electricity bill will be. 

FAQs

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Advertising does not influence our gear reviews, and it never will. While we always focus our coverage on standout products—because we want our readers to be aware of the latest and greatest gear—we also cover the flaws and quirks of any given product.

Final Thoughts on the Best Air Purifiers for Smoke

Purchasing an air purifier for smoke provided my family with an important piece of mind during a stressful smoke event. Since then, we’ve had several other smoke events (although none as dramatic as the original) that have reinforced the importance of that decision and watched as friends and family members across the United States have experienced similar events. If you’ve been putting off purchasing an air purifier for smoke, now is a great time to do so, to protect your and your family’s health. 

• Best Overall: Coway Airmega AP-1512HH
• Best for a Kid’s Bedroom: Winix 5500-2
• Best for Large Rooms: Blueair Purifier Large Room
• Best for Cars: IQAir Atem
• Best Budget: AROEVE Air Purifier
• Best Air Quality Monitor for Smoke: Airthings View Plus

The post Best Air Purifiers for Smoke of 2023, Tested appeared first on Outdoor Life.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best Overall		Midland ER210 Weather Alert Crank Radio	SEE IT
Best for Preppers		Eton Sidekick	SEE IT
Best Rated		Eton FRX3+	SEE IT

In this digital age, where we rely on our phones for so much information, it’s easy to overlook the good old radio. But an emergency radio will keep you informed with news and weather when the power is out or you’re off grid. They also have helpful features like chargers and flashlights built into them. While there is a list of viable products on the market, I helped you narrow down that list by testing five of the best emergency radios available.

• Best Overall: Midland ER210 Weather Alert Crank Radio
• Best for Preppers: Eton Sidekick
• Best Rated: Eton FRX3+
• Best Budget: Midland Emergency Alert Radio ER10VP
• Best Portable: RunningSnail Emergency Crank Radio

How We Picked The Best Emergency Radios 

Each emergency radio has different capabilities and standards, so there were some variances with each device. To get a feel for a radio’s most basic feature, I tested the radios in town as well as in the mountains to see how strong of a signal I could receive. Impressively, I didn’t find a whole lot of difference between the areas where I easily had cell phone service and the areas with rolling hills where a radio would be necessary. 

Here’s a breakdown of the other items I tested.

• Solar panels – The Etons, Midland Emergency Radio and the RunningSnail radio all come with a solar panel. They’re all more or less the same size, but each radio has different features and size batteries so I imagine this isn’t an exact science. I simply left them outside to see how quick they could charge and evaluated who’s battery charge went up the most.
• Hand Cranks – A hand crank is fairly standard on most emergency radios, and similar to the solar panels, I simply compared how well the hand crank-powered each device.
• Bluetooth – This is probably a newer feature for a lot of these classic radio companies. Only one device has this, so I simply connected it. 

The Best Emergency Radios: Reviews & Recommendations

Best Overall: Midland ER210 Weather Alert Crank Radio

Midland

SEE IT

Why It Made the Cut: When it comes to emergency radios, Midland is a household name, and this radio is one of their most popular. Plus, it’s certified by the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, better known as NOAA. 

Key Features

• AM/FM/Weather band Radio
• Additional weather alerts
• USB charger
• Headphone jack
• Solar panel charging
• Crank army charger
• Flashlight
• Dimensions: 7.5 x 5.25 x 2 inches

Pros

• NOAA certified
• Simple design and easy to use
• USB charger can charge phones and other devices
• Strong solar panel charging capabilities

Cons

• Solely focused on operating as an emergency radio

The Midland ER 210 is what probably comes to mind when you think of emergency radios. The simple device does exactly what it’s meant to do, keep you informed and safe during severe weather like flooding, wildfires, and hurricanes. Right out of the box, it is very easy to navigate the different channels and find a radio source no matter where I used it. There’s a solar panel on the radio, and during testing I found that it charged impressively fast for such a small solar panel. Especially considering I only had it outside a short amount of time. While it’s not a true con, as the product does exactly what it is, the simplicity may have some shoppers looking at other options that include additional accessories. I will say the most surprising feature of the ER 210 was the USB in and out. The modern amenity means you can charge the radio with a USB while also using the radio to charge other items like a smartphone.

Best for Preppers: Eton Sidekick

Eton

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Why It Made the Cut: The Eton Sidekick is the Swiss Army Knife of emergency radios. It can do just about anything you would expect from a radio and then some. While it’s a higher price tag, there’s no beating this list of accessories.

Key Features

• AM/FM/Weather band radio
• Bluetooth connection
• Flashlight
• Larger ambient light
• USB charging and to charge smartphones
• Solar charging
• Crank charging
• Headphone jack
• Durable design
• Dimensions: 2.9 x 7.8 x 12.7 inches

Pros

• An endless list of capabilities even compared to the next best competitor.
• Super durable design and a handle at the top allow the Sidekick to be easily carried.
• The does-it-all concept makes this a great device for emergencies or camping trips.

Cons

• One of the more expensive products on the market
• The solar panel doesn’t charge that well

The Eton Sidekick is an emergency radio, but in a lot of ways, it’s more than that. With the added Bluetooth and phone charging capabilities, this is a great device to also take camping, or in some cases, one of the best emergency radios for preppers. Having the laundry list of capabilities makes this a great device in any situation.

The added Bluetooth was my favorite advantage of the product, as you can stream music or other audio from your phone. That was followed by a close second of the ambient light that makes up the entire backside of the radio. This is a great light to have at night in a tent or sitting around a campfire without being too bright. All the radio capabilities and Bluetooth also worked at home and in the mountains, meaning you can take it anywhere. Plus, the battery lasts a very long time. It also has one of the easier cranks to use as the product’s face is flat, and it’s easy to turn.

However, the small solar panel grid at the top of the product was lacking compared to the best solar panels for camping. It didn’t do much to add a charge but would work for someone using this solely for emergency reports in a dire situation.

Best Rated: Eton FRX3+

Eton

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Why It Made the Cut: After Midland, Eton offers some of the top emergency radios on the market. This includes the FRX3+, which is certified by the American Red Cross. This radio is similar to the Eton Sidekick but with a cheaper price tag.

Key Features

• AM/FM/Weather band radio
• USB smartphone charging
• Solar panel charging
• LED flashlight
• Glows in the dark
• Headphone jack
• Dimensions: 6.9 x 5.8 x 2.6 inches

Pros

• Red Cross endorsement creates an added piece of mind
• The crank arm works great 
• Additional buttons for volume and tuning

Cons

• Pricier compared to the Midland radio, which is its main competition 
• Eton sells the Sidekick for just a few dollars more for a product with added durability and abilities
• The solar panel is underwhelming

The FRX3+ is similar to the Sidekick in many ways but without the added durable feel. As far as capabilities go, it’s on par with the Midland ER 210. Out of the box, it feels noticeably less durable than other products. This is Eton’s design for a product that is solely for emergencies. That said, the product did everything it said it would. With the same-looking solar panel as the Sidekick, the FRX3+ also didn’t generate a charge very quickly, but unlike the Sidekick, the charge was enough for the intended job of this being just a radio to alert you during severe weather. The price tag is fairly high on this one, but the American Red Cross stamp shows the extra cash may be worth it.

Best Budget: Midland Emergency Alert Radio ER10VP

Midland

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Why It Made the Cut: This is it if you’re looking for an emergency radio for extreme weather or other similar situations. Small enough to store in a kitchen drawer or wherever else, it still has the same radio power as the Midland ER210.

Key Features

• AM/FM/Weather band radio
• Flashlight
• Headphone jack
• Dimensions: 5.98 x 5.28 x 1.46 inches

Pros

• Very cost-effective
• Can still be used in emergencies

Cons

• No added accessories or ways to charge it besides fresh batteries

With a NOAA certification but at half the price and even simpler than the other Midland radio, the Midland ER10VP is an item that should be found in every home. Out of the package, the radio is the size of two decks of cards stacked and is very easy to use. It can easily fit in a kitchen drawer or somewhere else for easy access if bad weather were to move in. This could also be carried by weight-conscious backpackers and other campers who simply want to get a weather report and have a flashlight, in addition to their primary best flashlight.

Unlike some of the other radios, this one still uses standard batteries, which I see as being a plus or minus depending on who you ask. There’s also no other way to charge it if the batteries die, and I would recommend keeping three extra AAA batteries in the event of an emergency.

Best Portable: RunningSnail Emergency Crank Radio

RunningSnail

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Why It Made the Cut: Similar in size to the Midland ER210, the RunningSnail Emergency Crank Radio has a few added accessories that make this a great product the best portable emergency radio. This includes a great added light under the solar panel and a more efficient SOS system.

Key Features

• AM/FM/Weather band radio
• Solar panel charging
• Crank charging
• USB charger for smartphones
• SOS Alarm
• Two different lights

Pros

• More affordable than similar emergency radios
• SOS system with flashing lights and an audible alarm
• Power solar panel system for charging

Cons

• Weighs a little more than similar-sized radios
• Feels cheaper than Midland products

The RunningSnail Emergency Crank Radio out of the box looks a little bit more like a toy compared to other products but works just as well. I left it outside before charging it otherwise, and it was quickly charged with the help of the sun. This radio has one of the most impressive solar panel charging abilities as it charged quickly and lasted a very long time. Many of the radios also have an SOS system that flashes the flashlight, but on the RunningSnail, it flashes red and sounds an alarm. The sound was enough to scare my dog and seems like a great addition to any device that could be used to save your life. These added benefits and low price makes this a great portable radio to bring with you on trail or overlanding.

Things to Consider When Looking for the Best Emergency Radios

Weather radios provide communication from the outside world and multiple other options like flashlights, phone chargers, and more to keep users prepared for almost any situation. The top emergency radios are a growing spectrum of prices and accessories, so here’s how to find the best weather radio for you.

Price

The majority of emergency radios are affordable to most users. Still, it’s fair to say there are some poor-quality models on the market, so reading reviews and trusting a brand with certification from an organization like NOAA or the American Red Cross adds additional reassurance to the product.

Ease of Use

Most of the radios are easy to set up for the average user. Still, people with questions can find a long list of local meteorologists and others who have created YouTube videos to answer any additional questions you may have.

Features

From a basic outlook, most emergency radios come with FM, AM, and weather band radio, allowing users to get updates from the media and emergency broadcasts in certain situations. Additional features to help people prepare for power outages include hand cranks, solar panels, flashlights, and SOS signaling that could be vital in disastrous situations. While the chargers on emergency radios are fantastic, they aren’t a replacement for one of the best power banks for camping. For anyone looking to get additional accessories or to use their radio for outings like a camping trip, multiple radios have features like Bluetooth and charging capabilities to make it a great device for the backcountry as well. Some of these capabilities may be worth spending a few more dollars to have a more well-rounded product.

Read Next: The Best 2 Way Radios

FAQs

Final Thoughts on the Best Emergency Radios

You might never need to use one of the best emergency radios. But, if you do need it one day, you’ll be glad you have it. While prices and capabilities vary, plenty of today’s radios have added features like Bluetooth and lighting that can make them useful while camping or at home. Plus, these radios bring the benefit of peace of mind that you’re prepared for an emergency—and that’s priceless.

The post The Best Emergency Radios of 2023 appeared first on Outdoor Life.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Brightest		Cyclops FX1200	SEE IT
Best for Cars		Scosche Powerup 600 Torch	SEE IT
Best for Backpacking		Goal Zero Lighthouse Micro Charge	SEE IT

With battery packs and solar generators becoming increasingly common gear items in our emergency and outdoor kits, the switch to rechargeable flashlights is inevitable. Why fiddle around with finding four partially charged AAA batteries when you can just plug in your flashlight using a common USB cord? To help you upgrade to one of the best rechargeable flashlights, I checked out seven different models in a range of budgets and lumens to see which would work best across a range of scenarios. 

• Brightest: Cyclops FX1200
• Best for Cars: Scosche Powerup 600 Torch
• Best for Backpacking: Goal Zero Lighthouse Micro Charge
• Best Value: Anker Bolder LC90
• Best Budget: Rechoo S3000L
• Best Magnetic: Nite Ize Rechargeable Utility
• Most Versatile Power Source: 5.11 Response CR1

How I Tested the Best Rechargeable Flashlights

To test the best rechargeable flashlights I called in models from Nite Ize, Goal Zero, Cyclops, Anker, Rechoo, 5.11, and Scosche. I then independently checked their weight, length, and run time (at the highest brightness setting). I also tested each in an enclosed pitch-black room to see what kind of brightness it produced. I looked at each flashlight’s waterproof or water resistance rating, as well as other features that could be useful in an emergency scenario. Finally, I considered price and ease of recharging. 

For more testing on flashlights, check out our reviews of the best flashlights and the best flashlights for hunting. 

Best Rechargeable Flashlights: Reviews & Recommendations

Brightest: Cyclops FX1200

Laura Lancaster

SEE IT

Key Features

• Lumens: 1200
• Weight: 8.8 ounces (claimed); 6.6 ounces (measured)
• Waterproof Rating: IPX4

Pros

• Very bright
• Simple to use
• Affordably priced

Cons

• Cover to charging port can break off
• Cannot be used to charge other devices

For plenty of people, the best rechargeable flashlight is going to be the brightest rechargeable flashlight. If that’s you, then the Cyclops FX1200, with 1200 lumens, is for you. It’s also an affordable choice that’s reasonably easy to operate and charge (although I did struggle with switching between settings without inadvertently setting off the strobe function).

One issue with this flashlight is the silicon cover over the USB-C charging port. The first time I went to use it, the cover came off entirely and I was not able to re-secure it. For emergency use, this defect is only a minor problem but it becomes much more serious if you are using a flashlight in the dirt and grime of camping or if you are in any kind of inclement weather.

Best for Cars: Scosche Powerup 600 Torch

Laura Lancaster

SEE IT

Key Features

• Lumens: 300
• Can be used to charge other devices
• Weight: 23.5 ounces (claimed); 16 ounces (measured)
• Waterproof Rating: IP65

Pros

• Capable of jumpstarting gas engines up to eight cylinders
• Carrying case stores both flashlight and jumpstart cables
• Serves as a backup battery pack with 29.6Wh

Cons

• Low light output
• May need a second flashlight on hand to use the car jumper feature
• Light lasted for less time during testing than expected

If you’re looking for a rechargeable flashlight to store in your car, the multi-purpose Scosche Powerup 600 Torch is an excellent option. While it doesn’t have the brightness or the range of some of the other picks on this list, it’s other functions more than make up for it. It comes with a cigarette adapter so that it can be recharged in virtually any car (even older models), and its USB output port means that it can be used to charge other devices as well. 

But even better is that the Scosche Powerup 600 Torch can actually help get your car going again. The case holding the flashlight comes with a smart cable attached to jumper cables. Simply plug the smart cable into the jumpstart port on the flashlight, attach the correct cables to your battery terminals, and start your car. (The carrying case also includes easy-to-follow directions). 

The biggest challenge with this rechargeable flashlight is that since it will likely sit in your car unused most of the time, it may start to lose its charge. Scosche recommends charging it up every six months, something you can do in your car using the provided cigarette port adapter. I also found during testing that while this flashlight lasted for a significant period of time (7 hours), it lasted for less time than much smaller flashlights with higher lumen outputs. 

Best for Backpacking: Goal Zero Lighthouse Micro Charge

Laura Lancaster

SEE IT

Key Features

• Lumens: 120
• Weight: 3.1 ounces (claimed); 3.1 (measured)
• Waterproof Rating: IPX6

Pros

• Lightweight
• Very waterproof
• Can be used as a flashlight, lantern, or external battery
• Affordable
• Long last light

Cons

• Not very bright

Let’s start with the con of the Goal Zero Lighthouse: It’s not particularly bright. If you need to follow a blood trail or do some serious night hiking, you’d be better off with one of the best headlamps. But if you just want to grab an easy light source go to the bathroom or find something on the inside of your tent, it’s plenty of light. 

Even better, it has a lantern setting that can be split in half. That way you can light up either the entire interior or, if you’re sharing with your partner, just your half while they get a little shut eye. That’s a lot of functionality for just over 3 ounces. 

At 12 hours, this flashlight has one of the longest run times of anything I looked at—you could easily go your entire trip without having to recharge it. In fact, you could use it to power up some of your other devices as the internal battery has enough juice to power up a phone about once. 

Best Value: Anker Bolder LC90

Laura Lancaster

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Key Features

• Lumens: 900
• Weight: 6.2 ounces (claimed); 8.1 ounces (measured)
• Waterproof Rating: IPX5

Pros

• Very bright
• Affordably priced

Cons

• Micro USB charging port 
• Shorter battery life than others in my test
• Cannot be used to charge other devices

It makes sense that the best value rechargeable flashlight is made by the same company that makes one of the best solar generators: Anker. Like the Rechoo and the 5.11 Response CR1, this is a pretty basic flashlight. One click goes on; one click goes off. Holding down the power button sets it up to go through a series of various flashing patterns (try to avoid this). That’s basically it. 

I liked that this one had both a very bright setting and a fairly dim setting that were easy to maintain once you had clicked your way through to them. It had a great hand feel and, while it warmed up noticeably on the highest setting, it was never uncomfortable. It’s also very reasonably priced. My only gripe is that it has a Micro USB charging port, an increasingly uncommon cord to have in your arsenal if you misplace the cord the flashlight comes with. 

Best Budget: Rechoo S3000L

Laura Lancaster

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Key Features

• Lumens: 600
• Weight: 5.6 ounces (claimed); 4.8 ounces (measured)
• Waterproof Rating: IP65

Pros

• Affordably priced
• Plenty bright enough for most purposes
• Easy to use

Cons

• Fewer features than other flashlights we looked at
• Cannot be used to charge other devices

If you’re looking for something simple and affordable to have as part of your emergency backup kit, the Rechoo S3000L is a great option. It was one of the most affordable rechargeable flashlights I found for testing, had plenty of lumens to light up my testing room, and was simple to use and recharge. It even uses the more common USB-C for recharging, which will make your life a whole lot easier when you need to find a spare cord during a blackout. 

Campers should note that this flashlight is only rated to IP65 for water resistance. That means it’s fine to take out into a sprinkle when you need to hit the restroom, but if you leave it out overnight during a rainstorm you may find that it stops working. I also noted during testing that this rechargeable flashlight heated up somewhat quickly. 

Best Magnetic: Nite Ize Rechargeable Utility

Laura Lancaster

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Key Features

• Lumens: 850
• Weight: 5.6 ounces (claimed); 5.6 ounces (measured)
• Waterproof Rating: IPX4

Pros

• Doubles as a lantern and a flashlight
• Good handfeel
• Removable magnetic strip provides additional versatility

Cons

• Sometimes difficult to toggle through settings
• Cannot be used to charge other devices

The Nite Ize Rechargeable Utility is a versatile flashlight. It can be mounted via its magnetic strip to any metal surface. It has a light output of 850 lumens (on high) or 90 lumens (on low) as well as a red LED in the lantern function. This is a great choice to stash in an easy grab spot in your garage or other dark corner of your house where a mountable flashlight would come in handy. 

While I appreciated how easy it was to charge up this battery and apply the magnetic strip to various surfaces, toggling between the different settings was more difficult than I expected. Similar to other rechargeable flashlights, the Nite Ize depends on a series of quick or slow button clicks to change between different settings. While I found this wasn’t the only flashlight that I struggled with this feature on, it was the only one where I struggled to turn the flashlight off entirely. This is in part due to a lockout mode feature that is fairly sensitive and turns on easily. To disengage it, simply hold the button down for five seconds. 

Most Versatile Power Source: 5.11 Response CR1

Laura Lancaster

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Key Features

• Lumens: 549
• Weight: 6.8 ounces (claimed); 6.8 ounces (measured)
• Waterproof Rating: IPX4

Pros

• Can be powered using disposable batteries

Cons

• Requires a wall mount to use the rechargeable battery
• Alternate battery option requires less common CR123A batteries
• Expensive
• Cannot be used to charge other devices

The 5.11 Response CR1 was the most expensive rechargeable flashlight, even more expensive than the Scosche flashlight (which can jumpstart a car). Unfortunately, unlike the Scosche, there weren’t as many features here to justify the extra price. This flashlight cannot be used as an external battery. It was not noticeably brighter during testing than other high-lumen options I tested. It did have a longer run time, but this was in part due to a feature that caused the flashlight to switch to a dimmer setting when the batteries were low (and intermittently power off).

One feature that it did have that I wished it didn’t was a wall mount. While other rechargeable flashlights could be recharged with whatever USB-C or micro USB cord you have on hand, the 5.11 Response CR1 has a special mount that must be used. This may be useful for individuals who want to simply store their flashlight on the mount at all times, if you’re planning to use your rechargeable flashlight in an emergency or camping scenario it makes it somewhat less versatile. 

While I appreciate that there is an option to use disposable batteries with this flashlight, the only one in my test where that was possible, this option required both CR123A batteries, which are somewhat more difficult to find than AA or AAA, and a special cartridge separate from the rest of the unit. 

How to Choose the Best Rechargeable Flashlight

Flashlights might seem like simple tools, but there’s a lot to consider when you’re choosing the best rechargeable flashlight. Manufacturers tailor their flashlights for specific purposes, and you’ll want to consider the lumens, size, and power source before selecting the best flashlight for you. 

Size 

When you’re looking at a flashlight, you need to think about how you’ll carry it. Will this be a pocket companion, or will it live in a pack, drawer, or center console? The answer to that question will tell you if you want a small, slim light for your pocket or a larger light. 

Use

How you’ll use the flashlight is the most important deciding factor. Is this a general-purpose flashlight for walking the dog and making your way through a dark parking lot? Or, is this a duty light that carries a specific need to identify possible threats at distance or blind attackers at close distance? Is this a light you’ll need to run for more than an hour while you blood trail and drag a deer? Choosing the flashlight that best matches your needs will make sure you get years of good use out of it. 

Recharge Compatibility

Some of the rechargeable flashlights in my test used a common USB-C or micro USB cord, but others relied on specialized cords. Consider how difficult it will be to find the recharging apparatus in an emergency scenario (and what cords are most common in your home) before making a final purchasing decision. 

Waterproof Rating

The water and dust IP ratings provide consumers with test-based information on how well a product can withstand the elements. This rating includes a separate grade for both the dust resistance (first digit after the IP) and the water resistance (second digit after the IP). (An “X” in place of either of these ratings means that it was not evaluated in this area). A handy chart can be found here for further information. 

FAQs

Why Trust Outdoor Life?

Since 1898, OL has been a leading authority in testing and reviewing hunting gear, fishing tackle, guns and shooting equipment, and much more. We have more than a century-long history of evaluating products, and we’re now bringing that expertise to online reviews. Our editors are experienced outdoorsmen and women, and most importantly, we’re trained journalists. We prioritize field testing and objective data when reviewing products. We conduct interviews with gear manufacturers and engineers as well as outdoor experts so that our readers have an understanding of how and why a product works—or doesn’t.

Advertising does not influence our gear reviews and it never will. While we always focus our coverage on standout products—because we want our readers to be aware of the latest and greatest gear—we also cover the flaws and quirks of any given product.

Final Thoughts on the Best Rechargeable Flashlights

With the impressive upgrades that have been made in lithium batteries in recent years, there’s never been a better time to upgrade to a rechargeable battery. Our picks were selected based on a number of criteria, ease of use, charge and run time, and lumens. Whatever your needs and budget, you’ll find a product to light up your next camping trip or emergency power outage. 

• Brightest: Cyclops FX1200
• Best for Cars: Scosche Powerup 600 Torch
• Best for Backpacking: Goal Zero Lighthouse Micro Charge
• Best Value: Anker Bolder LC90
• Best Budget: Rechoo S3000L
• Best Magnetic: Nite Ize Rechargeable Utility
• Most Versatile Power Source: 5.11 Response CR1

The post The Best Rechargeable Flashlights of 2023 appeared first on Outdoor Life.

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IN THE People’s Republic of Portland, every other block features an artisanal something—furniture, beer, food, soap…you name it. Strip away the earnestly hip Victorian-style waxed mustaches and factory-ripped jeans coated in bicycle grease, and you find a knife culture that predates cool, predates even the hippies who settled in the area in the 1960s. In fact, blade culture here goes back to the days of the Oregon Trail.

There are more knife companies Oregon, in the Portland area, than in any other state in the Union. It’s a thriving industry, with manufacturers employing thousands of workers alongside smaller outfits that employ only a few. Put it all together and you’ve got the knife capital of the USA.

The Pioneers

It’s spring, and I take a road trip around Portland for a “tour de knives,” visiting Leatherman, Gerber, Benchmade, and a couple of mom-and-pop shops. Since this is Portland, I expect some rain, but I land at the tail end of a record stretch of precipitation: 145 days and counting. It has been raining every day since October 1. Everything outside is jungle green and saturated. I have Gore-Tex, hot coffee, and a hard-top, so the rain doesn’t affect me much. But as I look out on the silty and swollen Willamette River running through Oregon City, just south of Portland, I recall how Lewis and Clark wintered 100 miles west of here on the coast.

In 1800s Oregon, the homesteaders who made it to the end of the Oregon Trail in Oregon City survived cholera, runaway wagons, hostile locals, hypothermia, scurvy, and a host of other perils. Many were part of a wagon train, but others took to the trail on their own. Once they made it to Oregon, some headed south to California, but many stayed to work the vast timber stands and thriving salmon fisheries in the western part of the state. To succeed in either occupation required an edge—a very sharp edge. Two men in particular saw that as an opportunity.

Read Next: The Best Hunting Knives of 2023

In the early 1900s, Henry Brands was a traveling salesman cruising the Northwest in his Model T. He sold hardware, including knives, which he soon realized were of a poor quality. He worked with a local metalsmith to create a hardier, sharper knife, complete with a scoop at the back. It was a hit, and soon Brands formed Coast Cutlery, building knives for lumberjacks, cooks, and fishermen throughout the West. The company still has offices in Portland, but its knives are now produced overseas.

While Coast grew out of necessity, another knife company was being born out of the simple act of giving.

Like Brands, Joseph Gerber didn’t start out as a knife man—his business was advertising. And any successful businessman reminds his clients how much their business is appreciated, which is why Gerber would send his clients carving knives made by Portland bladesmith David Murphy. His clients were so impressed by the knives that they wanted to get more of them to give away as gifts themselves.

Gerber saw an opening and founded his eponymous company in 1939. Since then, the company has been purchased by the Finnish cutlery company Fiskars, but not before it spawned more than a few knife makers who went on to create Portland companies of their own. Al Mar and Pete Kershaw first worked at Gerber. Kershaw employees then spawned Columbia River Knife and Tool (better known by its acronym, CRKT), headquartered nearby in Wilsonville. If Coast was the seed for Portland’s knife culture, then Gerber grew the roots. And though not a direct Gerber spinoff, Leatherman is headquartered in Portland, employing around 500 and producing around 11,000 tools each day.

“All this infrastructure to support the knife industry was already here, thanks to Gerber. You can credit them with that,” says Vance Collver, a 43-year-old employee with Benchmade, whose headquarters and manufacturing facility are based in Oregon City.

Investing Back

With nothing more than a high school diploma and a dead-end pizza job, Collver knew decades ago that he wanted to make knives. He worked his way into Benchmade 23 years ago and found his calling. He’s now a manufacturing manager and working on a Master’s degree after earning a degree in business management, thanks in no small part to Benchmade’s owners, Les and Roberta de Asis.

“Roberta got certified as a proctor just so I could take exams for my online classes,” says Collver. “It’s a testament to their belief in continually learning. They are always looking for ways to improve.”

Collver and Derrick Lau, Benchmade’s PR and communications manager, hand me safety glasses as we enter the Benchmade factory. The first thing that hits me is the metallic smell. I see new million-dollar CNC machines still wrapped in plastic. Collver beams as we approach. “Les and Roberta will point to this machine and say, ‘Like my new boat?’ Instead of living like kings, they invest back in the company.”

Thanks to a large local manufacturing sector, services like heat-treating and applying Cerakote coatings to the blades are done right down the road from Benchmade’s factory. In 1994, the company had 30 employees; now it has 300. While business is solid and growing, it wasn’t always so.

In the early 1980s, Les de Asis owned Pacific Cutlery, based in California. He imported knives from Japan, but in only a few years he had to file for bankruptcy. The dollar fell and the currency imbalance cost them. California’s sky-high utility costs hurt their manufacturing. Plus, the knife laws in that state are nearly as strict as its gun laws. In the early days, de Asis was (and still is) known for his butterfly knives, or balisongs. Once Californa made balisongs illegal, it became clear to de Asis that he needed to move. So he changed the company’s name to Benchmade and moved to Portland, which, according to Collver, was an obvious choice.

“Why Portland? It’s just perfect. In two hours you can have everything, from mountains to deserts to oceans,” says Collver. “Yes, it rains a lot, and that’s why people here tend to be more gear geeks. You have the REI guys and the Cabela’s guys. Both want to be dry.”

But needing to be dry doesn’t explain why someone might pay $300 to $400 for a premium Benchmade knife. Collver has an answer to that too. “I think we’re moving away from a disposable economy,” he says. “Especially when it comes to things like knives.”

Many Benchmade customers were introduced to their first knives through the military. Automatic knives like the Infidel and SOCP Spear Point are designed and built with input from American Special Forces. Because all Benchmade knives are now produced stateside, it’s not a problem producing for the military. But there’s more to domestic production than just military contracts, which is why, in 2008, the company decided to move manufacturing to Oregon City.

They were still sourcing some parts from Taiwan, but they purchased the actual machines from the companies that had been producing the components and had the dies shipped over. Once they did that, the demand exploded, says Collver. “Knives are inherently personal.”

To prove his point, we go to the warranty department. Once the door shuts, it’s eerily quiet compared to the factory floor. Collver pulls out something that may have once resembled a knife. It had taken a bullet, and the survivor sent it back to them hoping Benchmade might be able to fix it. They couldn’t. Even so, says Collver, “If we can’t fix a knife, owners still want it back. Like I said, there is a bond there.”

Andrew Gritzbaugh, Gerber’s vice president of marketing, agrees. “People are okay with their jeans or computers being made overseas,” he says. “But if it’s a knife, it needs to be made in the USA. Oregon culture still has a very pioneering spirit. Yeah, the city may be techie and hippie, but there are plenty of sportsmen, tradesmen. Tools are a part of that self-reliant attitude. Our core consumers care. Guys give a crap where their knives are made.”

Gritzbaugh, himself an Army infantry veteran, says Gerber is the main knife supplier to the military. The MP600 multi-tool is issued to nearly every service member and is 100 percent made in Oregon. Even so, Gerber still has to import product to meet demand. He says it used to be double the cost to produce knives domestically, but now it’s closer to 30 percent.

Increasingly, domestic production is becoming more appealing to both consumer and producer. “There are so many uncontrollable variables when you produce overseas,” he says. “Shipping costs and time to market is a real killer. There are political climates and ever-shifting tariffs.” And then there is control over the final product. “There is something to be said about an issue arising in the production process and having a group of engineers walk down to the floor, look at the problem, and then figure it out. Try doing that over the phone to someone overseas, and throw in a significant language barrier.”

While Portland is home to big-name knife companies, its pioneering roots and liberal knife laws have attracted a number of smaller outfits who cater to those looking for unique and artisanal knives from bladesmiths like Murray Carter.

An Alien of Extra-Ordinary Ability

On the drive from Oregon City to Hillsboro to meet Carter, I get caught in a snarl of Portland’s famed traffic. It takes 30 minutes to go 10 miles. The congestion eventually breaks up, and it appears the clouds might too.

I meet Carter at an industrial business park. He’s at the end of a row of small office storefronts with giant garage doors attached. At first glance, he looks like any western Oregon working-class guy who might be watching the Seahawks at a bar, his scarred hands wrapped around a beer. Look a little closer, though, and you’ll catch sight of the knife he wears on a lanyard around his neck.

When Carter, now 48, was growing up in Nova Scotia, he had no idea what life had in store—all he really knew was that he wanted to be an American. “I never really identified with Canada,” he says. As a kid, he’d stay up late watching American television stations. “My heart would melt around midnight when they would go off the air and play the national anthem and all you’d see is the American flag waving.”

In his youth, Carter nibbled around the edges of interests, never really sinking his teeth into anything—until he found martial arts. He studied karate, and when he was 18, he visited Japan to immerse himself. While living in Kumamoto, he borrowed a friend’s scooter and wandered through the back alleys and roads. That’s where he came across a display window filled with new knives. He walked into the shop. The owner and master bladesmith, Yasuyuki Sakemoto, greeted him. Knowing only a few words of Japanese, Carter did his best to express his interest, which was sincere. He was invited back. A short time later, fate would choose a path for him.

One day at karate, Carter came down hard on his knee, dislocating it. It would take months to heal, months without practice. As he recovered, his instructor tossed a Japanese language textbook at him while he lay on his bunk. He studied the language and went back to Sakemoto’s shop again and again.

In Carter’s front office, there is a display case packed full of neck knives, kitchen knives, all-­purpose knives—all of them unique.d I want them all. There are a couple of drawings by his kids, an old microwave, and a sign, written in Japanese. Roughly translated by Carter, it reads: If you want to be content in life, you have to be a man of action, which will give you results and any result, be it success or failure, will still bring you contentment because at least you lived out that dream. This is Carter’s life.

Carter likes to say he went to Japan with a backpack and came home 18 years later with a wife, four kids, a dog, and the knowledge of 16 generations of bladesmiths. He applied for U.S. citizenship, which took a decade, but he got it. On his green card are the words “An Alien of Extraordinary Ability.” His skills at forging blades had led to his dream of becoming an American.

When looking for a place to settle, he knew he wanted to be on the West Coast. Washington was too close to Canada, and California wasn’t knife- or gun-friendly. In 2000, he attended the Eugene knife show to get a feel for the area, and he liked it. With $10,000 to build a shop, he settled in Hillsboro, 20 miles west of downtown Portland. In thinking back on it, he says, “I liked that self-reliant, Western mentality.”

As his business, Carter Cutlery, grows, he is able to pull from Portland’s creative and skilled labor pool. Keeping with the Japanese tradition, he has three apprentices who build their own knives under his direction. Whereas in some professions employees have to sign non-­compete agreements, Carter sees the apprenticeship system as more about advancing skills rather than the brand. Besides, as long as Carter works, he’ll always be a couple of steps ahead of his students. “I once asked my teacher in Japan why he was sharing all this information with me.” Carter says. “He put his arm around my shoulders and said, ‘Knowing how to make a knife like me doesn’t mean you’re ever going to be able to make a knife like me.’ ”

I watch as Carter forges a jeweled Damascus steel blade from a billet of metal, which to the untrained eye looks like a chunk of steel from a recycling bin. He heats the billet red-hot and then cranks up his hammer forge. I realize then why his shop is at the far end of the industrial park. I feel the pounding of the hammer from my thinning hair to my toes. He heats again, hammers some more, quenches, tempers, grinds, and polishes.

Eventually the knife will receive a custom handle, perhaps from a salvaged wine barrel or even scraps of material from a decommissioned spy plane. (I’m not kidding.) He lets his handle makers decide. Of all the steps, tempering is most important. Once a blade is quenched and fully hardened, it is heated once again to remove brittleness and make it usable. “Until that point, it’s only a $30 piece of steel,” says Carter. “Once it’s quenched and tempered, then it’s an $800 knife. All those alchemists who wanted to turn copper or steel into gold should have just been bladesmiths.”

Typically, Carter runs batches of 50 to 100 knives, producing about 160 blades every month. “We don’t strive for absolute perfection,” Carter admits. “We strive to improve. We’re artisans, not artists. We’re making a living doing this.”

Near the end of the day, Carter opens the garage door, revealing a sky that’s a deep blue with cottony clouds. We step outside, squinting at that weird yellow thing in the sky. I get the feeling that if it weren’t for the rain, everyone would want to live here.

New fads will always pass through Portland. As they become mainstream, they’re hip no more. But as long as there are people who rely on a keen edge to unzip a deer or fillet a salmon, Portland’s knife makers will always be cool.

Ideal Carry Knives

WORN INSIDE his hoodie or out, Murray Carter’s neck knife is always within easy reach. It’s a fixed-blade, as opposed to a folding pocketknife with an obvious weak point at the hinge. It provides a unique tactical advantage, should the need arise, but most often, it’s a way to display his craft, to get the conversation started. He ends up giving away many of those knives right off his neck. It may not be great for the bottom line, but then again, that’s how Joseph Gerber began his business, which started all of this.

As a self-defense instructor, longtime Benchmade employee Vance Collver has put some thought into why he carries a modified version of Benchmade’s Triage. He likes the blaze-orange color, glass breaker, strap cutter, and blade, of course. “It’s a very practical, everyday knife,” he says. And if he ever needed to use the knife to defend himself, he’d rather have a jury of his peers see that knife instead of an imposing switchblade straight out of Ponyboy’s leather jacket.

By the Numbers

NINETY-SEVEN PERCENT of the jobs in cutlery and handtool manufacturing in Oregon are in the Portland area. These statewide stats are essentially Portland stats, says Nick Beleiciks, an employment economist with the Oregon Employment Department.

This story originally ran in the August 2017 issue of Outdoor Life. Read more OL+ stories.

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Best Basic		Adventure Medical Adventure First Aid 1.0	SEE IT	LEARN MORE	Summary An all-encompassing first aid kit you can either pick and choose from or take with you into the field.
Best Backpacking		NOLS Med Kit 4.0	SEE IT	LEARN MORE	Summary A comprehensive backcountry kit including SOAP notes for communicating with search and rescue.
Best Car Camping		Uncharted Supply Co. First Aid Plus, First Aid + Gear Repair	SEE IT	LEARN MORE	Summary A fully-stocked first aid kit full of necessary gear repair tools.

Cuts happen, twisted ankles happen, and much worse happens. Part of being an outdoors person is being prepared for the worst, and being able to tackle minor problems before they turn into big ones. On top of knowing your route and packing enough food, water, and layers, having the best first aid kit for your trip is a critical part of getting outside.

When (not if) your next medical issue comes up—whether that’s a small cut or a major evacuation—you need to be prepared with the right emergency supplies to either finish out your trip or stabilize and get someone to care safely. 

As a former outdoor educator with a NOLS Wilderness First Responder certification, I evaluated the below emergency kits for different scenarios, and interviewed medical professionals in the industry for their first aid recommendations. 

• Best Basic: Adventure Medical Adventure First Aid 1.0
• Best for Hiking and Backpacking: NOLS Med Kit 4.0
• Best for Travel: Adventure Medical Kits World Travel
• Best for Car Camping: Uncharted Supply Co. First Aid Plus, First Aid + Gear Repair
• Best for Hunters and Anglers: Adventure Medical Kits Sportsman Series
• Best for Dogs: My Medic Pet Medic Med Pack

How I Chose the Best First Aid Kits

For this article, I tested 11 first aid kits by first grouping them into three categories: access to home/car, day trip, and one or more nights. This was critical not only in terms of weight, but also in regards to how long it would take for a patient to get to professional care. My two “home/car” winners, the MyFAK and First Aid Plus, had the most extensive range of supplies, and were also packable. 

For the day trip and overnight categories, I ran through a series of NOLS “scenarios,” and evaluated how well I could treat the patient based on the supplies in front of me. For more specific kits, like the World Travel and Pet Medic, I compared them to other similar kits on the market and considered their packability, supplies, and unique features. 

And while you’re pretty much guaranteed to spend a decent amount on a quality kit, there were some kits I tested whose price did not match their quality or amount/range of materials. If I could find a similar product for significantly cheaper, it was immediately ineligible for an award.

Best First Aid Kits: Reviews and Recommendations

Best Basic: Adventure Medical Adventure First Aid 1.0

Samantha Silverman

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Key Features

• Weight: 8 ounces
• Two large plastic pockets
• Contains bandages, over-the-counter medications, moleskin, and wound care 
• Mini whistle and compass

Pros

• Covers most of the likely everyday, minor first aid issues you may run into
• The two pockets have room for you to add your own materials (I add a bottle of hand sanitizer and a mini sunscreen)

Cons

• Only covers very basic needs and shouldn’t be relied on in the backcountry
• Tweezers are subpar 

This simple first aid kit has enough basic supplies for one person for 1-2 days—or, as I use it, for daily, low-consequence, just-in-case use. Think splinter or minor aches and pains on the trail or around town: “oh, I have something for that.” I keep this first aid kit in my day pack for a chill hike and in my carryon when I’m traveling—or even in my bag on a regular day. It’s nothing special when it comes to the impressive scope of first aid kits on this list, but for a basic kit, it has everything you’ll need, and nothing that’s “too much” for minor, daily needs. 

Best for Backpacking: NOLS Med Kit 4.0 

Samantha Silverman

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Key Features

• Weight: 1 pound 26 ounces
• Extensive wound care materials
• Materials in accordance with NOLS wilderness medicine curriculum
• Many med kits do not include a CPR mask, duct tape, irrigation syringe, and triangle bandages for sling and swath
• Includes SOAP notes for communicating a patient’s condition to search and rescue

Pros

• You learn to use all this equipment in NOLS courses
• Extensive wound care materials
• Lightweight, yet there’s room to customize your kit

Cons

• No SAM Splint like you’re taught to use in their courses
• Subpar tweezers

This is the med kit I’ve been taking backpacking for years, and out of the 11 kits I tested for this roundup, I still won’t backpack with anything else. I have a NOLS Wilderness First Responder certification, and I’ve found this kit has a high emphasis on treating more severe wounds than minor abrasions. If the purpose of a wilderness medical certification is to stabilize a patient until emergency medical services can reach them, then this kit supports that intention. 

Obviously this kit doesn’t have everything, so I have added a SAM Splint for fractures (although it adds weight), as well as a “cheat sheet” I made for assessing an injured or sick patient in the field and a lightweight SOTO Amicus backpacking stove. The 4.0’s roomy pockets are also a good place for the group to keep their personal medications if they so choose. 

I also evaluated the Adventure Medical Kit Mountain Series Backpacker in my test, but ultimately feel more prepared with the 4.0 in treating significant wounds. In fact, I gave this kit to a friend (an EMT) who had to treat someone in the field with a deep wound that had to be thoroughly packed and was immediately transported. That’s all the additional assurance I needed.

Best for Travel: Adventure Medical Kits World Travel

Samantha Silverman

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Key Features

• Weight: 1 pound 10 ounces
• Includes oral rehydration salts on top of standard over-the counter medication
• A section for personal toiletries and additional first aid supplies
• Visual Communication Tool card with basic needs in Spanish, French, Mandarin, and Arabic
• Includes a marine medicine guide and a wilderness medicine guide

Pros

• Highly organized
• Handy Visual Communication Tool with four languages and photos

Cons

• Would like to see an elastic “ace” bandage included

This is a pretty comprehensive first aid kit that includes features specific to traveling. While you’d hope you could communicate the basics in a country you’re visiting, the Visual Communication Tool is super clever, and the two pocket guides could prove very useful in a pinch. Most notably, the oral rehydration salts are critical for traveling, and I’d love to see them more in backpacking first aid kits, as well. As someone who likes to zip-tie their first aid kit until I need to use it, I am skeptical about the large section for personal toiletries, as it means I would be opening the World Travel multiple times a day, so I would rather opt to fill that section with any additional emergency materials I expect to need on my next trip. 

Best for Car Camping: Uncharted Supply Co. First Aid Plus

Samantha Silverman

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Key Features

• Weight: 2 pounds 15 ounces
• Durable, 100% waterproof case
• Weight (fully packed): 2.15 pounds
• Fully-comprehensive car first aid kit including gear repair and survival tools like a multi-tool, flashlight, stormproof matches, and chem lights

Pros

• Highly organized 
• Includes a pocket first aid guide
• Extensive wound management supplies and survival tools

Cons

• Does not include over-the-counter medication

On top of a roadside emergency kit, this is the only first aid kit I keep in my car for camping trips. Living in Colorado, I often drive long distances with stretches out of cell signal. Not only do I feel safe having this emergency kit in my car, but I also like knowing I have a strong backup of supplies when I’m camping. After adding over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen to the kit, the First Aid Plus has everything I want. I am uniquely impressed by the kit’s inclusion of a CPR kit, saline wound/eye irrigation system, and triangular bandages (typically used for head wounds or as a sling/swath). 

The kit opens like a book, and the right half is full of useful emergency supplies I would hate to ever need, but will prove useful in case of an emergency. I’ve never seen a first aid kit come with a multi tool (not the best multi tool, but still good), a flashlight, or chem lights, and after adding a lighter and an emergency snack, I can’t think of any other basics I would need. While dropping over $100 on a first aid kit is significant, I’d have to say this kit is easily the best value out there, and there are kits well into the $150+ range that don’t get close to what Uncharted Supply Co. offers here. 

Best for Hunters and Anglers: Adventure Medical Kits Sportsman Series

Samantha Silverman

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Key Features

• Weight (Sportsman 300): 1 pound 8 ounces
• Comes in four sizes for number of people and days
• Emphasis on trauma supplies and wound care
• Comes with a wilderness and travel medicine handbook

Pros

• Comprehensive trauma kit 
• Includes a triangle bandage for a sling and swath and WoundStop trauma dressing

Cons

• Disorganized 
• Should include fish hook removal
• Subpar tweezers

Product Description

The Sportsman Series is clearly geared toward hunting and fishing injuries, and I would feel confident dressing a major wound waiting for evacuation or walking someone out of the field. This kit has more bandages and gauze than most backpacking kits, and includes more intensive trauma care, like non-adhering dressing, WoundStop trauma dressing, and two pairs of gloves.

OL Staff Writer Tyler Freel also carries  an extra bag of ibuprofen, additional bandaids, super glue, Leukotape, and a bottle of hydrocodone in his hunting first aid kit.

Best for Dogs: My Medic Pet Medic Med Pack

Samantha Silverman

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Key Features

• Weight: 4.1 ounces
• A resealable bag packed with quality supplies 
• Digital download of a pet first aid guide
• Tweezers and a variety of sterile pads, gauze, and wraps 
• Antibiotic ointment, antimicrobial wipes, anti-allergy medication 
• Slip leash

Pros

• A lot of first aid kits don’t provide quality tweezers, but these easily got a splinter out of my friend’s dog’s paw
• Easy to deconstruct and add to dog-walking fanny pack or a jacket pocket
• QR code to a great 29-page dog first aid manual

Cons

• My Medic doesn’t offer a first aid kit for pets, just a tightly-packed plastic bag of supplies
• Slip leash is fairly short

You don’t think you need a first aid kit for dogs, but as my friends’ dog walker when they work the night shift, I’ve added some of these supplies to Stevie and Remy’s treat and plastic bag fanny pack. Some of the most common hiking/hunting injuries for dogs include bites, cuts, splinters, ticks, and things in their eyes. Even a small abrasion can get worse throughout a day in the field, so it’s much better to stay on top of it. 

Even for walks around the neighborhood, I like keeping the tweezers, wipes, and hand sanitizer on me, and when we go on long hikes, I appreciate having abrasion materials and an antihistamine. I prefer this method of taking what I need from the Pet Medic, rather than hauling around a full kit. 

I have My Medic’s dog first aid kit downloaded on my phone, and it’s an invaluable resource for topics like emergencies, poisonings, tick removable, dog park etiquette, and more. 

Things to Consider When Buying a First Aid Kit

Where You’re Doing and Where You’re Going 

Even if you never have to open it, you should always have a fully-packed first aid kit in your backpack to prepare for the worst-case scenario. A day hike may only require a few bandaids and some ibuprofen, but a multi-day backcountry trip is going to require a lot more supplies if you have to wait for search and rescue. Before you pick your best first aid kit, I suggest making a list of the top few issues you would expect to encounter, as well as how many doses of over-the-counter medication you will need. For example, if you’re hiking for a few miles within cell signal on a busy trail, you may not need a space blanket or multiple packets of anti-bacterial gel—two necessities on a long trek. 

Your Medical Certifications 

Remember, you can only practice first aid as high as your training, so if you find yourself in situations where potential risks are higher than your medical training, consider enrolling in a wilderness medicine course, like NOLS Wilderness First Responder. 

Cost

Some first aid kits are in the hundreds of dollars, so before you buy, look critically at what you’ll actually use. It’s up for debate whether buying a pre-made kit is cheaper than buying all the materials in bulk and building one yourself, but if you don’t have your first-aid needs dialed, you should probably buy a kit to start off. After you have your basics down, you can refill what products you need, take out what you don’t, or add things you find your kit is lacking, like a splint or additional bandages. 

First Aid Kit Add-Ons

Even the best first aid kits don’t have it all. I always recommend keeping a copy of everyone in your groups’ insurance cards in your kit, and if COVID is a concern, include a few medical masks if you encounter a patient outside of your group who needs help. On a remote backpacking trip, I’ll add a SAM Splint for fractures and some blister bandaids, a lightweight backup stove, sunscreen, extra water purification, and extra hand sanitizer that’s separate from my cooking set. That being said, from my experience as a guide, I would rather be over prepared than pack ultra light. 

FAQs

Final Thoughts on the Best First Aid Kits

In my opinion, it’s better to be over prepared than to wish you had something in an emergency. At least one of these best first aid kits will, at a minimum, give you an example of what first aid supplies to bring based on your adventure or lifestyle. And while I hope you’ll never have to use it, an extra pound or two in your pack is always worth it in case you do. 

The post The Best First Aid Kits of 2023 appeared first on Outdoor Life.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best Overall		TOPS Bushcraft 3.5	SEE IT	LEARN MORE	Summary From batoning and chopping to delicate carving, it’s an excellent “all-purpose” bushcraft knife.
Best for Carving		Buck Compadre	SEE IT	LEARN MORE	Summary The Micarta handle scales are well contoured for comfort.
Best for Survival		Morakniv Garberg	SEE IT	LEARN MORE	Summary This knife is ultra-durable and the black Multi-Mount sheath offers many options for carry.

So what is “bushcraft,” and why do you need a knife for it? The term “bushcraft” has been kicked around for decades, popularized by Britain’s Ray Mears and Canada’s Mors Kochanski. This word has always been synonymous with outdoor skills, but today, it’s getting even more traction in the self-reliance world. Bushcraft is the art of living in the wild, off the grid, and unfettered by modern technology. Since so many of these skills involve woodcarving, no other piece of bushcraft gear is as iconic (or as critical) as a good, dependable knife. So what makes a knife the best bushcraft knife? Let’s explore the necessary features before you buy some random shiny, sharp thing.  

• Best Overall: TOPS Fieldcraft 3.5
• Best for Carving: Buck Compadre
• Best for Survival: Morakniv Garberg

Choosing the Best Bushcraft Knives

As a survival instructor, I’ve used a lot of knives and the ones that made my list for the best bushcraft knives are proven designs that I feel confident carrying.

The Best Bushcraft Knives: Reviews and Recommendations   

Best Overall: TOPS Fieldcraft 3.5

TOPS

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Key Features

• Blade Length: 3.75 inches
• Cutting Edge: 3.63 inches
• Overall Length: 8.25 inches
• Blade Material: 1095 Carbon Steel
• Blade Thickness: 0.16 inches
• Blade Hardness: 56-58 HRC
• Blade Grind: Scandi
• Handle Material: Tan Canvas Micarta
• Sheath Material: Black Kydex
• Weight: 5.5 o ounces
• Made in the USA

Pros

• Easy to carry
• Durable
• Can be used for nearly all bushcraft tasks

Cons

• Handle could be small for large hands

The TOPS Fieldcraft 3.5 is a beautiful bushcraft knife with a balanced design. Even though it is made from very thick 1095 steel — 4mm thick, in fact — the lean profile keeps this tool relatively lightweight (5.5 ounces). The blade length isn’t gargantuan. It’s only 3.75 inches long, with an overall length of 8.25 inches. Though it’s still long enough to do smaller baton work and thick enough to take the abuse. While the handle is on the small side too, the brownish-tan Micarta handle scales create a comfortable grip and they hold a bonus feature for primitive skills enthusiasts. There’s a socket on each side of the handle, which allows the knife to be used as a friction fire socket for bow and drill fire starting.

In the two years that I’ve been using this knife on a regular basis, it has held edges well, and been almost immune to damage. The combination of thick knife stock and the Scandi grind edge didn’t let me down. From batoning and chopping to delicate carving, it’s an excellent “all purpose” bushcraft knife. And while the black Kydex sheath isn’t exactly primitive looking, you’ve got to love the positive click when it locks into place.      

Best for Carving: Buck Compadre

Buck

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Key Features

• Weight: 7.1 ounces
• Blade Length: 4.5 inches
• 5160 spring steel
• Micarta Handles
• Made in USA

Buck has been making quality knives for outdoor enthusiasts for over a century. The Buck Compadre continues this trend. Even without their iconic logo, you can tell that it’s a Buck. You can see the heritage of many other Buck knives in the curves of the Compadre. For this model, the 5160 spring steel blade is 4.5 inches long and 3.8 mm thick. With an overall length of 9.5 inches and natural canvas Micarta handle scales, the weight is a little heavy (coming in at 7.1 ounces), but this does give it enough mass for light chopping tasks. I am particularly fond of the way the knife feels in hand. The Micarta handle scales are well contoured for comfort and the knife spine has a great little section of thumb jimping near the handle. If you’re not familiar with this odd word, you probably know what it represents (jimping is the little grooves filed in a knife spine for additional grip). 

Like so many Bucks, the Compadre is a hollow ground drop point knife. This isn’t the common pattern for bushcraft knives, but it works. Another unusual feature (different from most Bucks and many bushcraft blades) is the black Cerate Cobalt coating for corrosion resistance. I was initially concerned that this coating would drag during cutting, but that wasn’t the case. It cuts and carves very well, though the thin edge is more prone to impact damage than Scandi grind knives.

Best for Survival: Morakniv Garberg

Mora

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Key Features

• Blade Length: 4.3 inches
• Blade Thickness: .13 inches
• Carbon steel blade
• Weight: 9.6 ounces

Pros

• Affordable
• Full tang
• A survival knife that can do bushcraft tasks as well

Cons

• Heavy

Maybe there’s something in the water in the industrial town of Mora, Sweden; but the blades that have been coming out of that city have become a bushcraft tradition. There’s just been one little problem over the years. Customers have been crying for thicker tangs and more robust blade construction. The Morakniv company answered this call, creating the Garberg — our pick for the best survival knife. With full tang construction, this 9-inch carbon steel knife has a 4.3-inch blade and weighs in at a beefy 9.6 ounces. While the knife profile, grind and handle swell may superficially resemble smaller Morakniv products like, the Morakniv Companion, this full-bodied knife is nothing like its puny cousins. 

The black polyamide (plastic) handle could be a little rough without gloves, and it is a little jarring when doing impact work. Still, the Morakniv Garberg is ultra-durable and the black Multi-Mount sheath offers many options for carry. The MOLLE-compatible kit gives the user many different carry options. It also remedies a classic Morakniv problem: sheath retention. The Multi-Mount kit includes a strap that can hold the knife securely in its sheath. My initial tests went very well, and after several seasons of hard use, the Garberg is still holding up great, and it’s my pick for the best survival knife that excels at bushcraft tasks.  

FAQs

How To Test Your New Bushcraft Knife

Can you baton with the knife? Is the knife good for chopping? And after all that, does the knife still carve effectively after performing brutal work? Before you end up deep in the backcountry with a wimpy knife, it’s smart to take the tool for a test run. Try making some hardwood kindling by striking the spine of the knife with a sturdy baton. This type of “bull work” has broken or bent countless blades over the centuries, but it’s also tested and proven countless knives since the dawn of the Iron Age. If your tool can survive this abuse at home, it’s very likely to survive the tough work it will face in the field. And if it still maintains a sharp cutting edge after the abuse, all the better. Try doing some fine work, like carving a feather stick after doing some baton work. Feather sticks are fuzzy pieces of kindling that are great for fire making in bad weather, as the curly shavings burn more easily than whole sticks. A tool must be sharp, however, to make these thin shavings. The knife that sails through both tests — especially performed back-to-back without sharpening in between — is a keeper. 

How to Choose the Best Bushcraft Knife

While the best hunting knife is always a good backup, it’s not quite the same as a bushcraft knife. There are thousands of different knives that are commercially available today, but there are only two main things to consider then choosing a knife for a specific skill set (like bushcrafting): the blade construction and handle construction.

Pick the Right Steel 

Back in the day, any self-respecting knife maker would pick the best metal available for tools as vital and versatile as knives. Today, many of the popular modern steel alloys used in commercial knife manufacturing will make a good sharp tool. Unfortunately, just being sharp isn’t good enough. The heavy toil of fieldcraft will require a blade that is hard enough to have good edge retention, while being soft enough that it isn’t brittle. I’ve long been a fan of 5160 spring steel for its insane durability, but this is hardly the only steel we might want. Stainless steel alloys might make more sense than high carbon steel, especially in coastal areas where salt corrosion is a greater threat to tools. You can also get the best of both worlds with laminated steel blades.

Edge Geometry 

Beyond the steel used in the bushcraft knife, there’s something even more relevant to the effectiveness of a blade — the shape of the working edge. Edge geometry has always been a big deal in knife manufacturing, but educated consumers are also paying close attention to shapes and angles of knife edges. My favorite is a flat grind commonly known as the Scandi grind. This edge bevel is simple but very effective at wood carving. A typical Scandi grind edge angle is around 22 degrees (made up of two 11-degree bevels). This acute edge geometry acts a bit like a wood chisel. The edge bites into the wood and it carves more cleanly than most other edge types.

Get a Handle on Things  

Whether it’s made from the finest Micarta or an old deer antler, the handle is the interface between the user and that tool. Being such a critical point of contact, the handle needs to be both comfortable and reliable. Tool handles should be secure and allow for a firm grip on the item. While I’d generally be happy with any handle construction that feels good in my hand, I keep going back to Micarta. This famous composite material was developed by George Westinghouse over a century ago, originally intended for use in electrical equipment and related applications. 

More recently, Micarta has become a very popular material for knife handles. Various fibers and fabrics are used to make this special substance, along with thermosetting plastics. The result is a material that is durable and offers great grip without feeling rough to the touch. It also lends itself well to handle scales, which pair perfectly with our next point (full tang construction).  If you are even thinking about performing heavy tasks with a knife, you’ll be in better shape with a full tang handle construction. The tang is metal — the part of a knife that extends into the handle. Some tangs are very slender, resembling a “square cut” nail. More robust tangs are the full height of the handle. With all that additional metal, full tang knives are heavier than thinner tang knives of the same dimensions. This additional weight, however, is usually worth carrying as full tang knives are much less likely to break at the handle junction or inside the handle (when compared to knives with a hidden tang). 

Why Trust Outdoor Life?

Since 1898, OL has been a leading authority in testing and reviewing hunting gear, fishing tackle, guns and shooting equipment, and much more. We have more than a century-long history of evaluating products, and we’re now bringing that expertise to online reviews. Our editors are experienced outdoorsmen and women, and most importantly, we’re trained journalists. We prioritize field testing and objective data when reviewing products. We conduct interviews with gear manufacturers and engineers as well as outdoor experts so that our readers have an understanding of how and why a product works—or doesn’t.

Advertising does not influence our gear reviews and it never will. While we always focus our coverage on standout products—because we want our readers to be aware of the latest and greatest gear—we also cover the flaws and quirks of any given product.

Read Next: The Best Camping Knives of 2023

Final Thoughts on the Best Bushcraft Knives

In the quest to reconnect with our heritage, the growing bushcraft movement is full of enthusiasts who are rediscovering traditional skills and embracing age-old technology. I think it’s a wonderful and fulfilling pursuit, even if it does seem like we are stepping backward into history (rather than moving forward into the future). To make these skills even more fulfilling, it’s important to have the right tool for the job. Imagine a carpenter’s frustration, trying to saw with a hammer or trying to drive nails by banging them with a saw. You’ll need the right tool for the job, for the work to be effective and the experience to be satisfying. Yes, any knife is better than none when we spend time in the woods or the backcountry. But the right tool for the job will make the work much more pleasurable, and that’s what bushcraft is all about. We’re not stuck in the wild trying to stave off death, we’re going out into the wild to really live. 

• Best Overall: TOPS Fieldcraft 3.5
• Best for Carving: Buck Compadre
• Best for Survival: Morakniv Garberg

The post The Best Bushcraft Knives of 2023 appeared first on Outdoor Life.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best All-Around Meal Kit		ReadyWise Emergency Food Supply 72 Hour	SEE IT	LEARN MORE	Summary Just add the meals into boiling water, and not only do you have a nutrient-dense meal, but also one that tastes good, too.
Best Survival Food Item		Augason Farms Dehydrated Potato Slices	SEE IT	LEARN MORE	Summary One can of these dehydrated potatoes contains 18 servings, with easy recipes on the back that are easy to modify depending on what food you have available.
Best Survival Breakfast		Mountain House Granola with Milk & Blueberries	SEE IT	LEARN MORE	Summary Just add a small amount of water, and you have a great, sweet meal that will keep you full all morning.

Survival food isn’t something anyone particularly wants to eat on a regular day, but if you ever need to, this guide will help you make the best choice. Along with your basic non-perishable pantry foods, there are some must-haves you should add to your survival food shopping list (that aren’t MREs) to help you be ready for anything.

Regardless of your reasons for stocking up on emergency survival food, it’s important that your rations last as long as you need them to—without sacrificing too much taste in the process. Here are my picks for the best survival food on the market. 

• Best All-Around Survival Food Kit: ReadyWise Emergency Food Supply 72 Hour
• Best Survival Food Bars: SOS Food Labs 3600 Calorie Emergency Food Bar 
• Best Dehydrated Food Item: Augason Farms Dehydrated Potato Slices
• Best Pocket-Sized Survival Meals: Nutrient Survival Southwestern Medley Singles
• Best Survival Breakfast: Mountain House Granola with Milk & Blueberries

How We Picked the Best Survival Food

There’s a wide range of potential emergencies to prepare for, so I’ve gathered a list of foods to apply to a variety of survival situations. I evaluated these survival foods based on the following criteria:

Objective measurements:

• Calorie count and nutrient density
• Shelf life
• Preparation time/water required

Subjective opinions:

• Taste
• Variety of meals/flavor options

Additionally, all of the survival foods on this list passed my “fullness” test, meaning they kept me completely full until my next mealtime, or approximately six hours. It was important to me that I felt I could sustain energy during my daily life on these meals, not just enjoy trying them.

The Best Survival Food: Reviews and Recommendations

Best All-Around Survival Food Kit: ReadyWise Emergency Food Supply 72 Hour

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Why It Made the Cut

This food is fantastic for feeding multiple people (four servings per pack of food), and is easy to cook. The kit contains two packages of oatmeal and one of cheesy macaroni, teriyaki rice, tortilla soup, and powdered milk. Just add the meals into boiling water, and not only do you have a nutrient-dense meal, but also one that tastes good, too. 

Key Features

• Shelf life: 25 years
• Packaging: Four servings per food package, 12 per powdered milk package
• Preparation: Add food into boiling water (approximately 17-minute total cooking time)

Pros

• Tastes great
• Well-rounded meal variety
• 25 year shelf life

Cons

• Multiple servings per sealed package (difficult to measure a single serving)

This best all-around survival food kit contains eight servings of brown sugar and maple multigrain oatmeal, 12 servings of whey milk alternative, and four servings each of cheesy macaroni, teriyaki rice, and hearty tortilla soup. The instructions on the back of each pouch are for preparing the whole thing at once, so it’s great for groups, families, or one large individual meal.

What sets ReadyWise apart from its survival food competitors is that it truly tastes like real food. Each serving of oatmeal, macaroni, and rice contains an average of 260 calories, 6g of protein, and 20 percent of your daily carbohydrates. 

If you’re ever in the position to need survival food, it is likely very comforting to eat a hot meal that you could’ve cooked in a normal situation. I, for one, will be ordering this again to take camping because it’s easy to cook and share. If you are thinking about — or already are  — compiling survival resources, ReadyWise should definitely be on your shelf. 

Best Survival Food Bars: SOS Food Labs 3600 Calorie Emergency Food Bar (Coconut) 

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Why It Made the Cut

Ideally, even in an emergency situation, a meal still consists of some variety in food groups, but that’s not always going to be the reality. For when you need sheer calories in the form of a food bar, the coconut SOS Food Labs Emergency bar is a great option to keep, just in case. 

Key Features

• Shelf life: U.S. Coast Guard approved for 5-year shelf life
• Serving size: 410 calories per bar, nine bars per package
• Preparation: Just unwrap and eat 

Pros

• High, dense calorie count 
• 5-year shelf life
• Individually-wrapped
• Sweeter than other survival food

Cons

• High in sugar
• Very grainy, hard to eat the whole bar without water 

These very dense and heavy survival food bars come in vacuum-sealed packaging. Each SOS Food Labs Emergency Food Bar is individually wrapped, so you can open one serving at a time, and you can store your bars individually across your bags, car, and home. They are coconut flavored with a cookie-like texture, and have enough density to keep you going throughout the day. These bars, however, do not have the same nutrient density as some meals on this list, so I recommend you keep them as high-calorie snacks, rather than a meal replacement.

There are survival foods out there with more calories, less sugar, and more vitamins, sure, but who doesn’t love dessert? Or, at least, some high-calorie semblance of dessert in an emergency situation. Don’t try to survive on just these bars, but you should keep each of the nine bars in a pack tucked away in various places, and you’ll worry a little less about when you’ll need one. 

Best Dehydrated Food Item: Augason Farms Dehydrated Potato Slices

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Why It Made the Cut

There’s only so many dehydrated meals you can eat. That’s why it’s important to stock up on staple ingredients with a long lasting shelf life, too. 

Key Features

• Shelf life: 25 years unopened, one year after opening
• Can size: 1lb 1oz of dried potato
• Preparation: Pour warm water over potatoes, cover for 15-30mins

Pros

• Great for cooking with or adding to meals
• Only hot water needed to prepare
• Potatoes are versatile and nutritious

Cons

• A lot of the potato slices were broken and crumbling upon opening
• The slides are peeled (a lot of nutrients come from the skin)

Augason Farms prepare a wide variety of freeze-dried vegetables and survival food kits. Their potatoes stand out as a versatile and tasty snack or meal ingredient. They’re a good source of energy, and there are many ways you can prepare them. One can of these dehydrated potatoes contains 18 servings, with easy recipes on the back that are easy to modify depending on what food you have available. And with a shelf life of 25 years (and of one year after they’re opened), these potatoes will never go to waste. 

It’s nice to have ingredients in your emergency food stockpile, rather than just prepared meals. Bring Augason Farms’ dehydrated onions, carrots, and chicken into the mix, and you have a nutrient-rich meal full of vegetables and protein. Emergency situations don’t always mean you have to sacrifice variety (or your culinary integrity). 

Best Pocket-Sized Meals: Nutrient Survival Southwestern Medley Singles

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Why It Made the Cut

These pocket-sized meals are easy, compact, and have a ton of nutritional value. The Southwestern Medley is my favorite Nutrient Survival has to offer, and for a meal you can just put in a pocket, backpack, car, or anywhere else—and just add water—it’s a must-have emergency food.

Key Features

• Shelf life: 15 years
• Serving size: One serving per packet
• Preparation: ½ cup of boiling water

Pros

• Easy to make and carry
• Full of nutrients
• Lightweight

Cons

• Food is dense to eat for just 280 calories
• Needs to cook for longer than 3-5 minutes for beans to be softer

Nutrient Survival loads each packet of Southwestern Medley with 14 vitamins, 13 minerals, 9 amino acids with 12g of protein, 346mg of Omega 3, 789mg of Omega 6, and 6g of fiber. That’s a lot of nutritional benefit for only needing to add ½ cup of water for 3-5 minutes (although you should let it sit for slightly longer). The meal itself is vegetarian, tastes good, and has enough jalapeno and paprika to stay interesting.

For only slightly more effort and resources than a survival bar, this compact pouch will give you everything you need in a survival meal. While Nutrient Survival sells 10-serving cans of their survival foods, I think there is a benefit to being able to carry or store these tiny packages anywhere.

Best Survival Breakfast: Mountain House Granola with Milk & Blueberries

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Why It Made the Cut

While many of Mountain House’s products are advertised as hiking or camping foods, their Granola with Milk & Berries is a high-calorie, delicious, and the best survival breakfast in a survival situation. Just add a small amount of water, and you have a great, sweet meal that will keep you full all morning. 

Key Features

• Shelf life: 30 years
• Serving size: Two 255 servings per packet
• Preparation: ¼  cup of water

Pros

• Easy to prepare
• 510 calories per bag keeps you full
• Long shelf life with great taste

Cons

• Pricier alternative to instant oats
• High in sugar

This bag of granola, powdered milk, and freeze-dried fruit is made with no preservatives. While the bag instructs you to add ¼ cup of cold water, I also tried adding hot water to mimic an oatmeal over a cereal. For how good this meal tastes and keeps you full, its 30-year shelf life is an added bonus. 

Mountain House has made an objectively good breakfast food, and it is a solid addition to a strong survival food stockpile. Along with the two-serving pouches, I’d recommend ordering two 20-serving cans, one for camping, and one to be there for 30 years if you need it. 

Things to Consider Before Buying Survival Food

The first thing to consider before buying survival food is what you’re anticipating having to survive. Where you live, what kind of storage space you have, and why you’re buying food with a long shelf life are all things you need to consider. Your intention could be having enough meals to go two weeks without leaving your house, or you could be anticipating a natural disaster. When you start to consider curating an emergency food stockpile, do your research and make a list of what you can see yourself needing given any emergency situation (before you start shopping). 

FAQs

The next things to consider when shopping for survival food.

Why Trust Outdoor Life?

Since 1898, OL has been a leading authority in testing and reviewing hunting gear, fishing tackle, guns and shooting equipment, and much more. We have more than a century-long history of evaluating products, and we’re now bringing that expertise to online reviews. Our editors are experienced outdoorsmen and women, and most importantly, we’re trained journalists. We prioritize field testing and objective data when reviewing products. We conduct interviews with gear manufacturers and engineers as well as outdoor experts so that our readers have an understanding of how and why a product works—or doesn’t.

Advertising does not influence our gear reviews and it never will. While we always focus our coverage on standout products—because we want our readers to be aware of the latest and greatest gear—we also cover the flaws and quirks of any given product.

Final Thoughts

Outdoor Life editors don’t just enjoy hunting and fishing as hobbies—the pursuit of these passions make us who we are. Our writers are diehard outdoorsmen and women, too. For more than a century, OL has been evaluating the latest and greatest outdoor gear and providing our readers with no-B.S. reviews. We test products in the field under real-world conditions. We write about the pros and cons of every product we review so that you know exactly what you’re getting if you decide to purchase the gear we cover. Only the best hunting, fishing, backpacking, camping, and survival gear will make the cut in our reviews and roundups. If we’re covering it, you know it’s legit.

• Best All-Around Survival Food Kit: ReadyWise Emergency Food Supply 72 Hour
• Best Survival Food Bars: SOS Food Labs 3600 Calorie Emergency Food Bar 
• Best Dehydrated Food Item: Augason Farms Dehydrated Potato Slices
• Best Pocket-Sized Survival Meals: Nutrient Survival Southwestern Medley Singles
• Best Survival Breakfast: Mountain House Granola with Milk & Blueberries

The post The Best Survival Food of 2023 appeared first on Outdoor Life.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

When you find yourself stranded in a remote stretch of backcountry, any rifle is better than no rifle (assuming you have a box or two of matching ammunition). But if beggars can be choosers, you’d want to bring along the best packable “survival” rifle for your money. You could debate the criteria for what makes a survival rifle a survival rifle all day long, but in my opinion, it’s simply a lightweight, reliable firearm that fends off predators and puts meat in the stew pot.

The Features of a Great Survival Rifle

Whether you’re a hiker or hunter, pilot or prepper, a survival rifle could decide your fate in the middle of nowhere. That said, here are few things you’ll want to consider the next time you’re in the market for a solid survival, or “packable,” firearm, followed by six of my favorites that don’t break the bank.

Reliable

A good survival rifle doesn’t fail you, especially in cold, wet, or icy conditions when food is scarce. It also needs to be built tough. If you’re in a survival situation, there’s always a chance you’ll take some lumps, and knock around or drop your rifle in the process. The good guns are the ones you can toss around and still expect to drive a tack should the need arise.

Lightweight

When you’re in a survival situation and possibly packing all you need to survive, you’ll want to shoulder the least amount of weight possible. Remember, ounces turn to pounds, and pounds turn to pain. If you expect to hold on to a survival rifle during desperate times, the gun needs to be light enough that you’ll happily carry it with you everywhere you go. Lightweight stocks and barrels (which often correlates to small-caliber rounds) certainly help, so my recommendation is to start with rifles that weigh less than five pounds, and common, popular calibers so finding ammunition isn’t a problem.

Accurate

If your survival rifle can’t hit the broad side of a barn, it’s dead weight. Yes, you’ll likely compromise some accuracy with any a bug-out-friendly firearm, but if you practice shooting enough, you’ll learn its nuances for aiming true. Remember, this isn’t a gun you’ll pair with a heavy scope, and it won’t have a long barrel, but that’s alright. In a survival situation, don’t think you’re going to drop a moose at 500 yards with a rifle that folds up into your daypack. You need to put squirrels and rabbits over your cook fire.

Packable

While I’m on the topic of shoving a rifle into your pack, I’ve found folding stocks and take-apart guns suit survival situations best, and that’s what I focused on in my recommendations. If you find a rifle that easily fits into a bug-out bag or bush-plane “ditch kit,” you’re on the right path.

Affordable

At the risk of getting blowback, survival rifles are expendable. As a matter of fact, I’m hard pressed to think of any gear that’s worth losing a life, should push come to shove. That said, don’t spend unreasonable amounts of money on something you may (hopefully) never have to use, and ultimately leave behind. Even with a survival instructor’s enormously huge salary, I still can’t afford (or justify) a rifle that costs as much as a good used car, and I doubt I’m the only one living on a budget. Consider the cost of the firearm itself, the cost of ammunition, whether you’ve needed a survival rifle on past adventures, or expect to need one on future ones, and go from there.

Best Budget Survival Rifles: Reviews & Recommendations

1. Chiappa Little Badger

Chiappa

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Key Features

• Full Length: 32 inches
• Pack Length: 16.5 inches
• Weight: 2.9 pounds
• Calibers: .22 LR, .17 HMR, or .22 Magnum
• Round Capacity: One
• Prive: $216-$230

The first gun is not only one of my favorites; it’s the lightest and most affordable rifle on my list—the Chiappa Firearms Little Badger. It’s a lightweight little thing, for sure, weighing in at just under three pounds, thanks in part to the wire frame stock. It packs down into a manageable size, too. By simply folding in the stock, the rifle shrinks to 16 ½-inches long, which is perfect for packing away in a small backpack or “go bag.” If you want a plinking gun, these Italian made models come in .22 LR, .17 HMR, or .22 magnum. If you prefer a shotgun, there’s a shotgun version that takes 9mm Flobert rimfire shotgun shells, which technically classifies the Little Badger a “garden gun” among rabbit-blasting farmers.

The simple, single-shot, break-open action is hard to beat, and with four Picatinny rails, you can customize the gun for a specific purpose. Even if you don’t want or need a pack rifle, at this price, you can afford a few to stash away at home, in your vehicle, or anywhere else you might need to make a quick, single shot.

Survival Tip

The Little Badger’s skeletonized wire buttstock is easy to customize with a survival theme. Wrap the wire two layers of 550 cord so you have cordage in reserve, and a makeshift shoulder pad for shooting. You could also take off the cartridge holder and secure a larger pouch inside the wire frame to hold ammunition and supplies, and protect your rounds from sand, grit, and weather.

2. Marlin 70PSS

Marlin

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Key Features

• Full Length: 36 inches
• Pack Length: 21 inches
• Weight: 3.25 pounds
• Caliber: .22 LR
• Round Capacity: One in the chamber, seven in the magazine
• Price: $345

The Marlin 70PSS Takedown Rifle is an updated incarnation of the old Marlin Papoose, a classic “camper” rifle that’s been popular for decades. This new model takes advantage of today’s lightweight polymer materials and the hardy attributes of stainless steel. The 70PSS is a blowback-operated, .22 LR repeater that’s perfect for anyone who travels around or over remote waterways. And while the rifle itself doesn’t float, its padded case has integrated flotation components, which are vital in the event of a watery accident or crash. Designed with the outdoor enthusiast in mind, the 70PSS is tough enough to get knocked around, yet easy to break down for travel or storage (there’s just one barrel nut to remove). Unlike some of the single shot firearms on this list, the Marlin 70PSS features a seven-round, nickel-plated magazine. The 16 ¼-inch long stainless-steel barrel has micro-groove rifling, and you can customize the gun by adding optics to the receiver, or shoot it as is.

Survival Tip

Don’t overload the floating case with ammunition and tools if you expect the 70PSS to stay on the top of the water. All you should need is an Allen wrench set anyway, so you can field strip the gun.

3. Kel-Tec SU16C

Kel-Tec

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Key Features

• Full Length: 35.5 inches
• Pack Length: 25.5 inches
• Weight: 4.7 pounds
• Caliber: .223 Remington
• Round Capacity: One in the chamber, 10 in the magazine
• Price: $550

The innovators at Kel-Tec have come up with a number of folding guns over the past few years, and while it’s not a true substitute for the beloved AR-15, the Kel-Tec SU16C is chambered in .223 Remington and readily accepts AR-15 magazines. Like other SU16 models, these carbines fold up for both concealment and portability. When packed for storage or transport, the folding stock swings underneath the receiver and latches into place. But this folding gun has two other magic tricks. You can open the forearm to become a bipod, which stabilizes the weapon for long shots. However, the best surprise feature of all, is you can fire the SU16C while it’s still folded. Add a lightweight optic to the rail and this survival gun is ready to go.

Survival Tip

Don’t let the 10 round magazines that come with the Kel-Tec SU16C limit your capabilities. Because this gun accommodates nearly any AR-15 magazine, you can carry and use different makes with various capacities.

Read Next: The Ruger PC Carbine Takedown Rifle

4. Savage Model 42 Takedown Compact

Savage

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Key Features

• Full Length: 34.75 inches
• Pack Length: 20 inches
• Weight: 4.65 pounds
• Caliber: .22 LR (top barrel), .410 (bottom barrel)
• Round Capacity: Two
• Price: $509

Would you like to take that squirrel with a scalpel or a hammer? You have that choice with the compact version of the Savage Model 42 Takedown Compact. For many shooting families, small guns like this make a great first firearm for kids because of the short length-of-pull and compact design, but that doesn’t mean this adaptable weapon is just for youngsters. The original Savage Model 42 Takedown weighs in at a little over six pounds, but the Takedown Compact version is only 4.65 pounds. The over/under, break-open gun is unique in that the lower barrel fires .410 shotgun shells, and the upper barrel fires .22 LR cartridges.

The stock and forestock are polymer, which keeps the gun light and durable. You can reach out with the .22 for small game at a distance, or choose your favorite .410 shells with the perfect load for small game, birds, or even self-defense. It’s amazingly easy to stow this weapon when it’s time to move—it breaks down with the push of a single button. The Savage Model 42 Takedown Compact has removable rifle sights, in case you’d like to add a lightweight scope–and the Model 42 includes a handy bag to carry the weapon.

Survival Tip

In addition to a supply of .22 cartridges, don’t forget to carry an assortment of .410 shells like bird shot, buck shot, and a few slugs to tackle different prey and troublemakers.

5. Kel-Tec SUB2000

Kel-Tec

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Key Features

• Full Length: 30.5 inches
• Pack Length: 16.25 inches
• Weight: 4.25 pounds
• Calibers: 9 mm or .40 S&W
• Round Capacity: Up to 50
• Price: $500

Remember those moments in old western books and movies when the sheriff or an outlaw might have a six-shooter and a rifle that took the same bullets? There’s actually some wisdom in that. The Kel-Tec SUB2000 is a pistol-caliber carbine that is available in a array of variants including Smith and Wesson M&P, Canik, Sig Sauer P226, Beretta 92 & 96, and Glock 17, 19, 22, and 23.

While the SUB2000 has a little more recoil than you might like with heavier loads, the straight blow-back system is reliable, easy to maintain, and simple to field strip. Now I know what you’re thinking—why would anyone consider 9mm or .40 S&W as a hunting round? My response is the 16-inch long barrel on the SUB2000 makes any handgun round act like a whole different beast, and you should have no problem folding any mid-sixed game animal with a blow from a 180-grain .40 S&W load.

Survival Tip

Since this rifle is available in so many different variations, buy one that matches your favorite everyday-carry handgun and your magazines should work with both.

6. Henry AR-7

Henry

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Key Features

• Full Length: 35 inches
• Pack Length: 16.5 inches
• Weight: 3.5 pounds
• Caliber: .22 LR
• Round Capacity: One in the chamber, eight in the magazine
• Price: $250

Far from a new design, Air Force pilots have used the earliest versions of Henry’s AR-7 survival rifle since the early 1950s, and with good reason. Like its predecessors, the Henry AR-7 Survival Rifle can perform one of the coolest tricks of all the guns on this list. You can disassemble and store this takedown gun inside a watertight stock that displaces enough water to actually float! It doesn’t ride high in the water, but it doesn’t sink, even with ammunition stored inside. Built to hold up in wet conditions, the hollow stock is made of ABS plastic and many of the steel parts are Teflon coated to inhibit rust and corrosion. The Henry AR-7 weighs only 3 ½ pounds and comes in black, True Timber Kanati Camo, and a True Timber Viper Western Camo pattern. It also comes with two eight-round magazines, which also fit into the stock. In less than one minute, you can either assemble or disassemble the entire rifle, with no tools required. In fact, if you needed, you can field strip the entire piece for cleaning in the field, using nothing but your bare hands.

Survival Tip

Load it up! This rifle comes with two eight-round magazines, but the stock will hold three, and still float (barely) when all three magazines are full. My advice is to buy a third magazine (sold separately). Making the jump from 16 rounds to 24 is a far better plan than just trying to cram random .22 rounds into the voids of the stock.

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The post The Six Best Survival Rifles Under $600 appeared first on Outdoor Life.

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Best for Survival		S.O.L. Heavy Duty Emergency Blanket	SEE IT	LEARN MORE	Summary Large, efficient, and affordable
Best for Hiking		Grabber Original Space Blanket	SEE IT	LEARN MORE	Summary Compact and weighs only 3 ounces
Best Wool		Rothco European Surplus Style Wool Blanket	SEE IT	LEARN MORE	Summary Fire resistant and will keep you warm when wet

Emergencies are short-term urgent situations that often can be resolved. If they can’t, they may become life-threatening survival scenarios — and often it’s something simple that can make the difference between the two. An emergency blanket is the perfect example.

The term “blanket” is usually associated with comfort, and pairing it with the word “emergency” can seem like a contradiction. But think of the effects on the body from being cold, wet, and exposed to the wind. An emergency blanket is the protective barrier we can wrap ourselves in to ward off the elements and prevent hypothermia and even death.

• Best for Survival: S.O.L. Heavy Duty Emergency Blanket
• Best for Hiking: Grabber Original Space Blanket
• Best Wool: Rothco European Surplus Style Wool Blanket
• Best Durable: Arcturus Heavy Duty Survival Blanket
• Best for Warmth: S.O.L. Emergency Bivvy

How warm does an emergency blanket keep you? That varies greatly on the blanket and the conditions, because emergency blankets are designed to reflect heat, not provide it. But do they actually work? Yes, when used properly, an emergency blanket is capable of saving your life, if you have one with you as part of your survival gear.

With so many emergency blanket types available, it can be difficult to discern which is best. As director of training for FieldCraft Survival I’ve tested all manner of emergency blankets, and I’ve assembled a handful of the best options for you to consider.

How We Picked the Best Emergency Blankets

When it comes to evaluating emergency blankets, nothing tops actually using them for a night or more outdoors. As a survival instructor and content provider for Fieldcraft Survival, I regularly spend nights out with nothing more than my clothing and an emergency blanket. For all of these emergency blankets, about 45 degrees with summer clothing is my threshold for warmth when used with a decent amount of evergreen bedding underneath. I evaluated these blankets on: 

• Weight (Are they lightweight and easy to carry?)
• Durability (Can the blanket withstand use without ripping?)
• Size (Does it fold up small enough to put in a small kit?) (Does it fold out large enough to cover an adult?)

By the end of the nights testing outside, I evaluated the blankets on warmth, durability, and size. The weight and packed size is important because if an emergency blanket is too big, you won’t carry it. Durability is important because a blanket with a rip will leak precious warmth you need to survive. All of these blankets passed in terms of my willingness to use them again for continued training. 

The Best Emergency Blankets: Reviews & Recommendations

Best for Survival: S.O.L. Heavy Duty Emergency Blanket

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Why It Made the Cut

If you can only carry one blanket, this is the one. S.O.L. (Survive Outdoors Longer) has been in the emergency preparedness game for a while, and they have a proven reputation for good reason. This blanket is the heavy duty version of their proven heat sheet and holds up to abuse. I’ve used these repeatedly as ground cloths and the material resists tearing. This blanket can double as a water collection basin, emergency signaling device, and vapor barrier for your debris hut. Given the price, packability, durability, and intended function, this is my top pick.

Key Features 

• Weight: 7.9 ounces
• Dimensions: 60 x 96 inches
• Heat Reflectivity: 90 percent

Pros

• Durable
• Relatively inexpensive
• Reflective, can be used for signalling

Cons

• Lacks grommets

This best survival blanket weighs in at only 7.9 ounces, and it provides 40 square feet of coverage with its 5 foot by 8 foot size. It can easily pack down into a cargo pants pocket and it is relatively strong and resistant to ripping. We believe this one is tough enough to be reused over and over and it will last for many backcountry trips.

If you can buy only one emergency blanket, this is the one to get. It has the perfect blend of packability, durability, affordability, and reflective properties. 

Best for Hiking: Grabber Original Space Blanket

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Why It Made the Cut

For many, this is the emergency blanket that started it all. These “Space Blankets” utilize the same technology NASA uses and they have been carried by outdoorsmen for many years. Watch any marathon and you’ll see those who finish frequently wrapped in these. Also, in a pinch, a strip of this blanket can actually be used as emergency snow goggles. This blanket is the best emergency blanket for hiking and should be included in everyone’s medical kit because it can be used to prevent hypothermia from extreme blood loss.

Key Features 

• Weight: 3 ounces
• Dimensions: 56 x 84 inches
• Heat Reflectivity: 80 percent

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Compact
• Lightweight

Cons

• Easily torn

Weighing in at only 3 ounces, this blanket will never be left home for being too heavy. It has been tested to reflect 80 percent of body heat, and adds an effective layer to any emergency shelter. It’s available in reflective silver or high visibility orange.

I’ve been using these Grabber blankets for years and there is a reason why they are still relevant. Designed for single use, you can pack this one away easily in a compact package until it is needed. This blanket is the BIC lighter of emergency blankets. Buy a few and throw them in your kits. You’ll forget you have them until you need them. 

Best Wool: Rothco European Surplus Style Wool Blanket

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Why It Made the Cut

Emergencies are not all created the same and sometimes you need a tool to address an urgency that other tools can’t fix. A simple wool blanket has that incredible versatility. Wool is not what most people think of when they think of an emergency blanket, but wool has some excellent qualities. This 90 percent wool blanket can be used for warmth, of course, and it’ll keep you warm even when it’s wet. It resists burns when campfire embers land on it, and it can be used to suffocate a small fire. It can be used as a ground pad in dry areas. You can wrap objects in it for protection, and even fashion a pack from it with rope or webbing. It’s durable and will last for a very long time.

Key Features 

• Weight: 4.35 pounds
• Dimensions: 62 x 80 inches
• Materials: 90 percent wool, 10 percent blended fibers

Pros 

• Warm
• Extremely durable
• Fire-resistant

Cons 

• Heavier than other emergency blankets

This Rothco blanket is a reproduction of the Italian Army surplus blanket. It is fire retardant and has excellent draping characteristics making it the best emergency wool blanket. It’s great to have on hand in case you need another layer of warmth on a cold night. There are some very expensive wool blankets on the market, but this one is affordable and well made. This blanket can be used in conjunction with other space blankets here to provide additional insulation and protections to an emergency bivouac shelter.

Best Durable: Arcturus Heavy Duty Survival Blanket

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Why It Made the Cut

This emergency blanket is more like a happy marriage of a traditional tarp and a mylar emergency blanket. It comes equipped with grommets that can be used to tie this blanket up into an A-frame or a lean-to shelter. This blanket is durable enough to use as a ground cover and it can also be used to wrap and protect your gear carried on the roof of our car. The Arcturus is a true multi-function blanket, and it’s built to last.

Key Features 

• Weight: 19.5 ounces with carry bag
• Dimensions: 60 x 82 inches
• Heat Reflectivity: 90 percent

Pros 

• Tough
• Waterproof
• Grommets come standard
• Multipurpose

Cons 

• Bulky
• Slightly small if used as a tarp

This blanket sandwiches a strong waterproof outer layer with a thin aluminum reflective layer on the inside. It’s capable of reflecting upwards of 90 percent body heat. This blanket comes with its own carry bag, weighs just a single pound, and measures a full 5 feet by 7 feet when opened.

The Arcturus is incredibly tough and durable making it the best durable emergency blanket. It doesn’t pack down like some of the smaller blankets in the lineup, but it makes up for compression with strength. It is the most reusable of all the reflective blankets in this lineup and can be used for years.

Best for Warmth: S.O.L. Emergency Bivvy

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Key Features 

• Weight: 3.8 ounces
• Dimensions: 84 x 36 inches
• Heat Reflectivity: 90 percent

Why It Made the Cut

While not a true blanket per se, this emergency bivvy (referring to a bivouac shelter) is the easiest product to use for preventing your body heat from escaping making it the best emergency blanket for warmth. Traditional rectangular blankets have to be draped over the body to reflect body heat. The corners need to be tucked under the body or heat will escape and cold air will enter. This bivvy is essentially an emergency sleeping bag, so there is no concern over it opening up in the middle of the night. If needed, it can be cut open to a rectangular shape.

Pros 

• Traps body heat
• Little chance for heat loss or cold intrusion

Cons 

• Difficult to repack to the same size as originally packaged

The S.O.L. Emergency Bivvy with rescue whistle and tinder cord is the lightest bivvy on the market coming in at only 3.8 ounces. When packed down, it is smaller than a can of Coke. It is waterproof, windproof, reflects 90 percent of your body heat, and because it is shaped like a bag, it will easily stay on you throughout the night. The cordage used in the stuff sack can be used as tinder, adding to your ability to stay warm through the night. If you need this bivvy in a rescue situation, you can use the provided whistle to signal for help.

We like to think of an emergency where we or the person we are aiding will have the ability to hold a flat blanket in place around them. If that person is weak or unconscious, the blanket may slip off. This bag is sure to stay put when someone is inside.

Things to Consider Before Buying an Emergency Blanket

While I am provided blankets by my company to use, the average shopper may have some questions before buying them. I would suggest considering the following:

• What will the blanket be used for? Sleeping, shelter, signaling, all of the above?
• Weight. Is the blanket lightweight enough so that you won’t leave it behind?
• How much body heat does the blanket reflect? Will that serve your purposes, or will you need a source of true warmth?  

The emergency blanket you choose will depend mainly on how you’ll carry it. A blanket for your medical or survival kit will be different then one you’d choose to keep in your car. Another consideration is where you live or where you’ll be venturing outdoors. A blanket that could be used in Alaska has different considerations than one for Arizona.

FAQs

Important questions—and answers—when researching the best emergency blanket for you.

Outdoor Life Values

Outdoor Life editors don’t just enjoy hunting and fishing as hobbies—the pursuit of these passions make us who we are. Our writers are diehard outdoorsmen and women, too. For more than a century, OL has been evaluating the latest and greatest outdoor gear and providing our readers with no-B.S. reviews. We test products in the field under real-world conditions. We write about the pros and cons of every product we review so that you know exactly what you’re getting if you decide to purchase the gear we cover. Only the best hunting, fishing, backpacking, camping, and survival gear will make the cut in our reviews and roundups. If we’re covering it, you know it’s legit.

Final Thoughts

Emergency blankets are excellent products to have on hand for emergencies, but what is even more beneficial are safe practices that mitigate the need for them. Much like how wearing your seatbelt is not an excuse to drive recklessly, carrying an emergency blanket doesn’t give you the freedom to travel carelessly. These blankets are inexpensive insurance in case you find yourself in an emergency situation, and they are absolutely worthwhile considering as an addition to your preparedness.

• Best for Survival: S.O.L. Heavy Duty Emergency Blanket
• Best for Hiking: Grabber Original Space Blanket
• Best Wool: Rothco European Surplus Style Wool Blanket
• Best Durable: Arcturus Heavy Duty Survival Blanket
• Best for Warmth: S.O.L. Emergency Bivvy

The post The Best Emergency Blankets to Survive the Elements in 2023 appeared first on Outdoor Life.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

The SHOT Show is almost always an exciting place to check out new knives, and the 2023 show did not disappoint. Whether you’re looking for a small EDC fixed blade, a full-sized folder or anything in between, the knife companies have them available. It would take the entire show to cover all the new knives, and that’s a good thing. Here are just a few of the new models making their debut. 

CRKT 3820 Definitive

CRKT

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• Blade Length: 3.7 inches 
• Blade Thickness: 0.13 inches 
• Overall Length: 8.63 inches 
• Closed Length: 4.91 inches 
• Weight: 3 ounces 
• MSRP: $215 

For 2023 CRKT is introducing their first, made-in-USA knives. One model in this new premium line of blades is the Definitive, an MJ Lerch design. It is also one of the first CRKT knives to use a crossbolt-style lock. Not surprisingly this is a one-handed opening, pocket clip folder designed for EDC. It is not petite, sporting a 3.7-inch, clip-point blade made from 154CM stainless steel. The blade is a robust .13 inch thick with the cutting edge all the way to the choil making it easy to sharpen, and it opens via ambidextrous thumb studs.

G10 handles give the knife strength while keeping weight and thickness to a minimum. The texture on the G10 is a bit plain if not nonexistent, and it would be nice to have a lanyard hole for attaching a cord-pull or something similar. Called the “Crossbar”, the lock is exceptionally strong. The ambidextrous locking system and dual thumb studs make this a great knife for lefties. 

Read Next: Best Pocket Knives

Bear OPS 61125 

• Blade Length: 3.25 inches 
• Weight: 3.4 ounces 
• Overall Length: 7.5 inches
• MSRP: $69.99

The Bear 61125 isn’t going to win any awards for innovation or pioneering exotic new materials, but it’s not supposed to. What it does provide is a respectable value for the dollar by combining proven design with affordable materials, in this case stainless steel for the handle and 440 stainless for the blade. 

The 61125 is a frame lock, spring assisted, pocket clip folder that even has ball bearing washers. The blade opens with a flipper tab. The pocket clip is designed for deep carry which is nice, and the handles have enough texture to provide a good grip while still being easy to get in and out of your pocket. This is an easy to carry folder, with a 3.25-inch blade and an overall length of 7.5 inches. Assembled in the USA from both domestic and foreign sourced parts, the 61125 hits the target of providing time-tested features and affordable materials. 

Hogue Counterstrike

Hogue

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• Blade Length: 3.55 inches 
• Blade Thickness: 0.094 inch
• Open Length: 8.35 inches
• Closed Length: 5 inches 
• Weight: 2.8 ounces
• MSRP: $399.85

Ok, let’s be clear, I don’t have a need for this knife. Let’s also be clear that I really want one. The Counterstrike is an out-the-front automatic knife that looks fantastic and functions superbly. It’s like a fidget spinner, but for grown-ups.

This knife has all the premium features: A MagnaCut stainless steel blade, machined aluminum handles with a carbon fiber cover, reversible tip-down pocket clip, ambidextrous blade deployment, carbide glass breaker with lanyard hole, titanium hardware, and an anodized brilliant blue that looks amazing. 

Often machined aluminum handles can be flat, almost two dimensional because it’s easy to manufacture. The handles on the Counterstrike have enough contour to make them comfortable to handle yet remain sleek enough to be unobtrusive in your pocket. The blade springs out the front with authority and solidly locks in place until retracted by pulling the “trigger” rearward. The bottom line is this is an excellent embodiment of this type of knife. If you can legally own one, you’ll no doubt enjoy it. It’s not for the faint of pocketbook however, with an MSRP of $399.95, you’re going to really want this knife to shell out that kind of coin. Did I mention I really want one? 

Gerber Confidant

• Blade length 3.27 inches
• Overall Length 7.7 inches
• Weight: 3 ounces
• MSRP: TBD 

Gerber is a no-show at the SHOT show this year, but it doesn’t mean they’re not introducing anything new at the same time. One of their noteworthy new knives is the Confidant. It blends modern materials and aesthetics, having G10 handles with wood inlays. It’s a nice look. 

It has a folding Nessmuk-esque style blade, which you just don’t see every day. The blade has a sort of wide spear tip shape and will be available in 440A or D2 and is 3.27 inches long. It opens via a thumb stud or flipper tab. The Confidant has a deep carry pocket clip that does not appear to be reversible but should still be serviceable for lefties. The Confidant’s overall size and the blade shape, combined with weighing in at only 3 ounces, would be an effective EDC and hunting pocket knife.

Kershaw 2038 Iridium

Kershaw

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• Blade Length: 3.4 inches 
• Blade Thickness: 0.107 inches
• Overall Length: 7.9 inches
• Weight 3.3 ounces 
• MSRP: $99.99

Kershaw/Zero Tolerance is another knife company forgoing the SHOT show but still bringing us new knives to drool over. One in particular is the Iridium. It caught my eye because the blade had a Grohman-esque shape and size, but in a pocket clip folder that would make it a great EDC/hunting crossover knife. The blade is a comfortable size for EDC at 3.4 inches, made from D2 tool steel. While not the latest in cutting edge technology, D2 offers great performance and value for the dollar. The Iridium features a crossbolt style lock, called the DuraLock. This style of lock is great because it’s ambidextrous. Southpaws are persecuted enough by virtue of limited firearms selection, so it’s nice to see knives that work with either hand. 

In keeping with the basic but solid material choice, the handles are gray anodized 6061-T6 aluminum with steel liners, and an aluminum backspacer and lanyard hole that’s anodized an attractive orange. It’s a nice touch. The blade opens smoothly, solidly locks open, and if you’re familiar with the crossbolt style of lock, closes easily with one hand, with your fingers safely out of the way at all times. 

If I had one change I’d like to see, it would be to have some sort of grooves or texture machined into the aluminum scales, and some jimping on the liner/handle on top and in the finger groove area. That said, the Iridium is a very affordable knife with a great size and shape and reliable materials. I’ll be getting one of these to carry around to see if it lives up to my initial impressions. 

Spyderco FB50GPOD Stok Drop Point

Matt Foster

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• Blade Length: 2.95 inches 
• Blade Thickness: 0.10 inch 
• Overall Length: 6.45 inches
• Weight: 1.9 ounces 
• MSRP: $100 

Small, well-designed fixed blades are gaining in popularity for EDC. The Stock Drop Point is one such knife with a pleasant-sized blade just under 3 inches combined with a well-thought-out sheath making it convenient to carry. The blade looks a bit like a cross between a Wharncliffe and a drop point, giving it a utilitarian shape that looks as at home working around the shop as it does in the field. 

Made from 8Cr13MoV stainless steel, the full-tang blade is .10 inch thick. OD green textured G10 scales provide a secure, comfortable grip. The sheath can make or break a fixed blade knife, fortunately the molded Boltaron sheath for the Stok definitely helps make it. It features their G-Clip mount that provides angle-adjustable, edge-forward or edge-back carry. It works on belts up to 1.5 inches and can also be clipped inside the waistband. If you’ve been thinking about trying a fixed blade for EDC or are looking for a compact hunting/utility knife, you probably want to give the Stok a look.

Read Next: Best EDC Knives

White River FC-PKO Firecraft PKO

Matt Foster

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• Blade Length: 3.7 inches
• Blade Thickness: 0.125 inch 
• Overall Length: 8.1 inches
• Weight: 4.6 ounces 
• MSRP: $200 

It’s a pleasure to see a fixed blade with useful features that aren’t gimmicky. The New White River Firecraft PKO is such a knife. At first it seems to be just a basic fixed blade with the scales screwed to the sides, plain and simple. But as the name suggests, this knife is for use in fire craft, and there are some subtle features to assist with that. There’s a notch in the top of the blade for use with a ferro rod. It’s small, unobtrusive, but will assist with the process of making sparks. 

A ferro rod is include with each knife and is efficiently attached to the well thought out sheath. The handle has a small, attractive steel “divot” for use with a fire bow. Regardless of the pyro-oriented features, the Firecraft is a great take on a puukko style knife, featuring a stout, scandi-grind blade made from S35VN stainless steel, micarta scales with blaze orange G10 “liners”, and a really nice sheath that allows for multiple carry options. 

That ring at the back of the knife makes it easy to withdraw the knife from sheath or attach a lanyard. The Firecraft PKO is just under 5 ounces. Combined with its overall design and durable materials, it would make a great hunting/survival knife combo.

Read Next: Best Fire Starters Rod

Benchmade Immunity

Matt Foster

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• Blade Length: 2.49 inches
• Blade Thickness: 0.09 inch
• Overall Length: 5.49 inches 
• Weight: 2.29 ounces 
• MSRP: $300

Designed to be the little knife that could, in particular for areas that have size restrictions on blade length, the Immunity is a fairly small folder, but it’s built like a tank. It has a stout, Wharncliffe style blade just under 2-inches long with a slight curve along the edge to offer some efficiency when slicing. The black Cerakoted CPM-M4 steel blade contrasts nicely with the machined, textured , anodized aluminum handles. 

Available in blue, green, and flat dark earth, the handles are supported by stainless steel liners. Benchmade’s Axis lock securely keeps the blade open and combined with a reversible pocket clip and dual thumb studs, make the Immunity fully ambidextrous. The Immunity comes with a fob style lanyard, helping to pull the knife from the pocket. Coming in at under 3 ounces, the Immunity definitely hits above its weight class.

W. R. Case & Sons Westline 

• Blade Length: 3.2 inches 
• Overall Length: 7.7 inches 
• Closed Length: 4.5 inches 
• Weight: 4.5 ounces 
• MSRP: $189.99 

Well known for making traditional pocket-knives like the Stockman and Trapper, Case has been introducing more modern EDC pocket clip folders recently. The Westline is their latest offering for this kind of knife. Made in the USA, the Westline delivers the most desired features for an EDC knife. It has an S35VN assisted opening blade, steel liners, machined anodized aluminum handles that are contoured instead of flat which is a nice touch, and a reversible pocket clip. 

The dual thumb studs and reversible clip make this very left-hand friendly. The blade opens with authority and solidly locks in place. The contoured handles are quite comfortable, noticeably more so than flat-profiled handles, although it would be nice to have some grooves or texture machined into the handle for a better grip. That said, the Westline doesn’t offer any pioneering technology, but it’s well built and delivers very practical features, design, and materials for the price. 

Outdoor Edge RazorPro S

• Blade Length: 3.5 inches
• Overall Length: 8 inches
• Weight: 8.3 ounces 
• MSRP: $89.95

For 2023 Outdoor Edge has updated their RazorPro line with the RazorPro S, which features a bone saw. Now hunters can have a replaceable blade hunting knife and small bone saw in one compact unit. A blaze orange TPR covered handle makes the RazorPro S comfortable to grip and easy to find when set on the ground. The RazorPro S comes with six drop point replacement blades and a Kryptek camo sheath. 

The RazorPro’s blade changing system is one of the easiest to use. Simply push a button on the side, remove the blade, insert a new one, and it will “click” when locked into place. The drop point blade is a lockback design while the saw blade is held open with a liner lock. For those that love the replaceable blade feature and also want to carry a small bone saw, this might be a great choice. It will be available in the Summer of 2023. 

Read Next: Best Hunting Knives

The Upshot

The SHOT Show is always an exciting event to check out new knives, and the 2023 show was no exception. There are many more great knives worth checking out and hopefully we will get a chance to do so soon. 

The post New Knives from the 2023 SHOT Show appeared first on Outdoor Life.

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