When it comes to outdoor adventures and survival gear, military surplus items often offer an enticing blend of durability, functionality, and a rich historical context. These items, once essential to soldiers on the battlefield, can now be acquired by civilians, adding a unique and rugged touch to your outdoor arsenal. Here, we explore ten military surplus gems that are sure to enhance your next adventure, providing both practical value and a connection to the rich history of military innovation.
The Machete: A Versatile Cutting Tool
The machete is an iconic symbol of survival and versatility. Originally designed for military use in dense, tropical environments, this heavy-duty cutting tool has proven its worth in countless outdoor scenarios. With a long, broad blade, it excels at clearing brush, cutting firewood, and even processing game. Military surplus machetes often feature durable construction, with sturdy blades made from high-carbon steel, ensuring they can withstand the toughest tasks. The handle, often made from wood or synthetic materials, provides a comfortable grip, making it easy to wield for extended periods.
Key Features
- Sturdy high-carbon steel blade for durability and edge retention.
- Full-tang construction for added strength and balance.
- Ergonomic handle for comfortable, controlled use.
- Sheath included for safe storage and transport.
| Blade Length | Weight |
|---|---|
| 18-24 inches | 1-2 lbs |
Ghillie Suit: Master of Camouflage
For the ultimate in stealth and camouflage, the ghillie suit is a military surplus masterpiece. Originally developed by Scottish snipers to blend into the rugged terrain of the Highlands, this suit has since become a staple in military operations worldwide. Made from a base layer of durable, breathable fabric, it’s covered in loose, irregular strips of burlap or jute, creating a three-dimensional effect that mimics the surrounding environment. This unique design allows the wearer to virtually disappear, making it ideal for hunters, wildlife photographers, and anyone seeking to blend into their natural surroundings.
Suit Components
- Jacket with integrated hood, featuring pockets for additional camouflage material.
- Pants with adjustable waist and leg straps for a custom fit.
- Camouflage netting and burlap strips for a realistic, natural appearance.
- Optional accessories like face paint and additional foliage for enhanced concealment.
| Size | Fabric Type |
|---|---|
| Small, Medium, Large, X-Large | Cotton, Polyester, Nylon blends |
Military Surplus Tent: Reliable Shelter
A military surplus tent offers a reliable and durable shelter solution for outdoor enthusiasts. These tents are designed to withstand the rigors of military operations, making them ideal for camping, hiking, and survival scenarios. Constructed with heavy-duty materials like canvas or nylon, they provide excellent weather resistance, ensuring a dry and comfortable space even in adverse conditions. The robust construction and reinforced stitching enhance the tent’s durability, allowing it to withstand strong winds and heavy rain. Many military surplus tents also feature a versatile design, with multiple compartments and customizable layouts, making them suitable for a range of outdoor activities.
Tent Specifications
- Capacity: Varies, accommodating 2 to 10+ people.
- Material: Canvas, nylon, or a blend of both for durability and weather resistance.
- Setup: Easy, with color-coded poles and simple instructions.
- Features: Some models include a built-in rain fly, mesh panels for ventilation, and storage pockets.
| Model | Size | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| A-Frame Tent | 10' x 10' | 30-40 lbs |
| Dome Tent | 8' x 8' | 20-30 lbs |
| Pup Tent | 6' x 6' | 15-20 lbs |
Canteen and Cup: Hydration Essentials
Staying hydrated is crucial during outdoor adventures, and military surplus canteens offer a reliable solution. These canteens, often made from durable materials like stainless steel or aluminum, are designed to withstand the rigors of military use. They feature a wide mouth for easy filling and cleaning, and some models include a built-in cup for convenient hydration. The canteen’s durable construction ensures it can withstand drops and impacts, making it a trusted companion in any environment. Additionally, many military surplus canteens come with a strap or carrying case, allowing for easy transport and accessibility.
Canteen Features
- Capacity: Varies, typically ranging from 1 quart to 1.5 liters.
- Material: Stainless steel or aluminum for durability and corrosion resistance.
- Insulation: Some models feature insulation to keep beverages cool or warm.
- Carrying Options: Most canteens come with a strap or carrying case for hands-free transport.
| Model | Capacity | Material |
|---|---|---|
| Steel Canteen | 1 quart | Stainless Steel |
| Aluminum Canteen | 1.5 liters | Aluminum |
Gas Mask: Essential Protection
While not a typical outdoor gear item, a gas mask can be a crucial addition to your survival kit. Designed to protect against chemical, biological, and radiological hazards, a military surplus gas mask offers a high level of protection in emergency situations. The mask typically features a durable, airtight seal and a filter that can remove harmful particles from the air. This makes it an essential tool for survivalists, preppers, and anyone venturing into potentially hazardous environments. Additionally, the mask’s robust construction ensures it can withstand harsh conditions, providing reliable protection when it’s needed most.
Gas Mask Components
- Mask Body: Made from durable rubber or silicone for a secure, comfortable fit.
- Filter: Removes harmful particles and gases, ensuring clean air intake.
- Head Harness: Adjusts to fit various head sizes for a custom, secure fit.
- Eye Pieces: Some models feature protective lenses for enhanced visibility.
| Model | Filter Type | Protection Level |
|---|---|---|
| M17A2 | CBC (Chemical, Biological, and Radiological) | NATO Standard |
| M50 | NBC (Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical) | Advanced Protection |
Survival Knife: The Ultimate Tool
A survival knife is an essential tool for any outdoor enthusiast, and military surplus options offer a blend of durability and functionality. These knives are designed to withstand the rigors of military use, making them ideal for camping, hiking, and survival scenarios. Constructed with high-quality materials like stainless steel or carbon steel, they feature a fixed blade for added strength and reliability. The knife’s full-tang construction ensures it can handle heavy-duty tasks, while the ergonomic handle provides a comfortable and secure grip. Many military surplus survival knives also come with a sheath, allowing for safe and convenient carry.
Knife Specifications
- Blade Length: Varies, typically ranging from 4 to 8 inches.
- Material: Stainless steel or carbon steel for durability and corrosion resistance.
- Handle: Ergonomic design for comfortable, controlled use.
- Sheath: Most knives come with a durable sheath for safe storage and transport.
| Model | Blade Length | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| KA-BAR | 7 inches | 0.5 lbs |
| Ontario RAT-7 | 6.5 inches | 0.4 lbs |
Military Surplus Rucksack: Durable Backpack
A military surplus rucksack is a rugged and durable backpack option for outdoor adventures. These rucksacks are designed to withstand the demands of military operations, making them ideal for camping, hiking, and survival scenarios. Constructed with heavy-duty materials like canvas or nylon, they offer exceptional durability and weather resistance. The spacious main compartment provides ample storage for gear, while multiple external pockets and compression straps allow for customized packing and easy access to essential items. The rucksack’s ergonomic design and padded shoulder straps ensure comfort and support during extended wear, making it a reliable companion for any outdoor enthusiast.
Rucksack Features
- Capacity: Varies, typically ranging from 30 to 70 liters.
- Material: Canvas or nylon for durability and water resistance.
- Pockets: Multiple external pockets for organized storage.
- Compression Straps: Adjust to secure gear and reduce bulk.
| Model | Capacity | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| ALICE Pack | 50-60 liters | 3-4 lbs |
| MOLLE Pack | 30-40 liters | 2-3 lbs |
Field Jacket: Versatile Outerwear
A military surplus field jacket offers a blend of style, functionality, and durability. Originally designed for military use, these jackets are built to withstand the toughest conditions. Made from sturdy materials like cotton, nylon, or a blend of both, they provide excellent protection against the elements. The jacket’s versatile design features multiple pockets for storage, adjustable cuffs and waist for a custom fit, and a removable liner for added warmth. This makes it a versatile choice for outdoor enthusiasts, offering both style and practicality in a single garment.
Jacket Specifications
- Material: Cotton, nylon, or a blend for durability and comfort.
- Pockets: Multiple pockets for storage and easy access to essentials.
- Lining: Removable liner for added warmth and versatility.
- Cuffs and Waist: Adjustable for a custom, comfortable fit.
| Model | Material | Lining |
|---|---|---|
| M-65 Field Jacket | Cotton/Nylon Blend | Removable Wool Liner |
| N-3B Parka | Nylon | Removable Fur-Lined Hood and Wool Liner |
Mess Kit: Compact Cooking Gear
A military surplus mess kit is a compact and versatile cooking solution for outdoor adventures. These kits typically include a pot, a pan, and utensils, all designed to nest together for easy transport and storage. Made from durable materials like stainless steel or aluminum, they are built to withstand the rigors of outdoor cooking. The pot and pan feature a non-stick coating for easy cleaning, while the utensils are often made from durable plastic or stainless steel. The mess kit’s compact design makes it ideal for camping, hiking, and survival scenarios, providing a reliable and efficient cooking solution in any environment.
Mess Kit Components
- Pot: For boiling water and cooking meals.
- Pan: For frying and sautéing.
- Utensils: Spoon, fork, and knife for eating and cooking.
- Storage Bag: Keeps the kit organized and protected.
| Model | Material | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| GI Mess Kit | Stainless Steel | 1 quart |
| Aluminum Mess Kit | Aluminum | 0.5 quart |
Canteen Cup and Stove: Portable Cooking System
For a compact and efficient cooking system, a canteen cup and stove combination is an excellent choice. This setup is designed for military use, providing a lightweight and portable solution for cooking meals in the field. The canteen cup, made from durable materials like stainless steel or aluminum, is perfect for boiling water and heating food. The stove, often a small, lightweight model, uses solid fuel tablets or a small gas canister for fuel, making it easy to transport and use. This combination offers a reliable and efficient cooking solution for outdoor enthusiasts, ensuring hot meals and drinks even in remote locations.
Stove and Cup Specifications
- Canteen Cup: Made from stainless steel or aluminum for durability and heat retention.
- Stove: Compact and lightweight, using solid fuel tablets or a small gas canister.
- Fuel: Solid fuel tablets or a small gas canister for efficient and clean burning.
- Boil Time: Varies, typically ranging from 5 to 10 minutes for 1 liter of water.
| Model | Fuel Type | Boil Time |
|---|---|---|
| Esbit Stove | Solid Fuel Tablets | 10 minutes |
| MSR PocketRocket | Gas Canister | 3 minutes |
Are these military surplus items still in good condition?
+While military surplus items are often used, they are typically well-maintained and in good working condition. Many surplus stores inspect and refurbish items before selling them, ensuring they meet a certain standard of quality. However, it’s always a good idea to inspect the item yourself before purchasing, especially if you’re buying online.
Can I use these items for everyday activities, or are they only for outdoor adventures?
+While military surplus items are designed for rugged, outdoor use, many of them can be adapted for everyday activities. For example, a field jacket can be a stylish and functional piece of outerwear, and a mess kit can be used for camping or even as a unique cooking set at home. It’s all about finding creative ways to incorporate these durable and functional items into your daily life.
What should I look for when buying military surplus items?
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