While there are obviously dozens of variables and aspects to consider, the two primary factors that separate those capable of surviving in the outdoors from those capable of thriving in the outdoors are training and proper equipment. While you can’t outright purchase the former, anyone willing to shell out the cash can arm themselves with a solid off-grid gear loadout— and that’s what we’ve put together this week; a handpicked selection of items, each chosen for their ability to help one excel while off of the grid. So, without further ado, let’s dive into this week’s outdoor-focused EDC array.
G-SHOCK MUDMASTER GWG2000-1A3
Engineered to stand up to some of the world’s most hostile and unforgiving environments, the G-SHOCK MUDMASTER GWG2000-1A3 is an ultra-tough outdoor watch that’s brimming with genuinely useful features and top-shelf touches. This solar-powered watch is constructed around G-SHOCK’s insanely durable Carbon Core Guard structure that’s been outfitted with a forged carbon bezel, stainless steel pipes, silicone buffers, mud-resistant buttons, and a resin band. Armed with Triple Sensor (digital compass, altimeter/barometer, thermometer), this watch is ready to take on any adventure. It also boasts multi-band 6 atomic timekeeping, a stopwatch, countdown timer and super illuminator double led lights. All beneath an anti-reflective sapphire glass crystal. Water-resistant to 200m, this MUDMASTER model is ultra-low temperature-resistant, capable of surviving temperatures as low as 14°F (or -10°C).
Exotac xREEL
A wonderfully simple yet clever survival tool, the Exotac xREEL is an ultra-compact and fully pocketable all-in-one handline fishing kit that contains everything needed for catching small fish in the wild. Made in America and backed by a lifetime warranty, this patented design includes an O-ring-secured waterproof housing with a screw-down cap for accomodating hooks, sinkers, floats, and other basic tackle gear, while the outside of the xREEL is wrapped in over 50’ of 15lb-test monofilament line, plus features “hook parking” holes and a flexible thermoplastic elastomer finger strap. Sold with several included hooks, sinkers, and floats, this hardwearing little item is also offered in four different color-anodized finishes.
WESN x VSSL Survival Kit
Part of the Detroit-based knifemaker’s 2021 “Holiday Drops” release, the WESN x VSSL Survival Kit is a limited-edition item that includes a fire starter kit, a collapsible shot glass, and a miscellaneous wilderness gear kit — all three of which come stashed in puck-shaped aluminum tins that neatly stow away inside of an indestructible, 9.375” x 2” waterproof, military-grade aluminum cylinder which is capped off with a 200-lumen LED flashlight on one end, a precision compass on the other, and adorned in a special OD green finish and WESN branding. This kit also notably includes an OD green-handled version of WESN’s popular Microblade knife.
Cold Steel Demko AD-15 Scorpion
Designed by Andrew Demko, Cold Steel’s production version of the AD-15 is a unique and rugged folding knife equipped with what’s called a “Scorpion Lock” — a pull-back-style, stop pin-secured lever positioned on the knife’s spine that is extremely secure, and hugely mitigates blade play and the likelihood of blade overtravel. This idiosyncratic knife locking mechanism is installed on a stainless steel frame that’s adorned in G-10 scales and paired with a 3.625” drop point blade crafted from top-shelf CPM S35VN steel. Measuring 8.50” overall, the AD-15’s super-secure locking setup make the folder a stellar choice for use outdoors, though the knife’s immense durability and ample utility also make it a great candidate for regular EDC duties, as well.
