Most vital component

by Carl Rooker
(Michigan)

In the kits that I make there is one item I consider just as important as a good knife, and just as versatile.

That item is a "military rain poncho".

This item has so many uses;
1. Use as a ground sheet
2. Use as a sun shade
3. Use for concealment (camoflage)
4. Make a lean to, or use 2 as shelter halves to make a tent
5. Take 2 green saplines, cross them and tie to corner of poncho, then bow the poles inward. Use to cover equipment, or as a small dome tent. Or support 2 corners, and use as a stout lean to.
6. Wrap up gear, tie the ends with rope, and you have a sling pack
7. Wrap brush into it, tie up the hood, and use it to float gear in a river or lake
8. Much, much more

You can even use it to keep the rain off.