For me, I have found that most military surplus gear is modular in that it is made to add or subtract items as needed. This can be a double-edged sword due to the potential of having voids in your kit where another mil surp item is supposed to be that you didn’t particularly want to use. But, for the most part, a lot of the gear is very versatile and can be a trusted companion when out in the wilderness.
If weight is an issue for you then mil surp may not be the way to go. Military gear tends to be heavy-duty, with emphasis on the “heavy”. But, they were made that way to avoid failure in hard use situations. The photo above is some of the things I have traded for over a period of time. Each piece is unique in its own way, and there is military worldwide, so don’t overlook great kit pieces from foreign countries.
Although every piece of the gear isn’t to be desired to have in the woods, there are a few categories I recommend you take a closer look at:
MMSS
The Military Modular Sleep System is an all-weather set up that is hard to beat for the price range. You can usually find one for around $100, which is a bargain for what you’re getting. The MMSS complete kit comes with a Goretex bivy sack which is virtually waterproof. This is to be used as the outside layer in dreary climate conditions. Also included are 2 mummy style sleeping bags that add even more versatility to the package. The lighter one is usually referred to as a patrol bag, and by itself will only be useful in good weather conditions. But with the other bag which is usually referred to as the intermediate bag, the combination with bivy is rated at -40 F. Now, keep in mind that the rating is MIlitary standards, so it is only saying that it will HELP keep you alive to those temperatures. No promise of comfort, and it will be in conjunction with the clothes that you are wearing.Mess/Cook kits
If you haven’t looked, you will be amazed at the cooking and eating option available within mil. surp. to use in the field. There is a variety of set ups that include canteens, pots, plates, utensils, stoves, etc. My suggestion would be to search “military surplus mess kits” and start looking there. I am telling ya, there’s quite a few options available.Wool
Wool is known for retaining up to 85% of its insulating properties while being wet. This can be a true life saver in certain situations. Within surplus you can find wool long johns, coats, blankets, neck gaiters, socks, hats and just about anything else that you can think of. Don’t overlook this resource as a trusted item in your kit.Packs
Again, there is such a wide array of packs available I don’t know why anyone buys anything else! Some of the more popular are the A.LI.C.E., I.L.B.E and Italian rucksack. But that is just scratching the surface! If you are on the search for a pack, you may want to check out what the surplus bin has to offer.There is a whole lot more things that you can find within the surplus genre. So, the next time you get a little time on your hands head over to your favorite auction site and take a look around. I can bet that you will find something that will force you to click the dreaded “Buy it Now” button
