Jay's Amazon Favorites
My 10 favorites for in the field this year
I am not really known for doing a “Top Ten” or a “Favorites” list, but there are definitely pieces of gear that I use that stand out or are just tried and true favorites of mine in the field. I get asked a lot in comments on videos and posts about certain gear so I thought this may help a bit!
So let’s take a look at these 10 favorites of mine that are available on Amazon…
1. The 34 Alpha Amazon Split Rig Clone
I picked this up last Fall and have been wearing it ever since! I couldn’t see spending over $900 for the real deal, so instead for just over $200 I was able to get a full split rig setup and I have never been more pleased with a rig (except maybe for the Smersh or AT Armor Light Scout rig) but I think this blends the two very well and suits all my patrolling needs. This is the rig I will be taking out for the SERE Challenge this coming Fall
2. Binock NVG50 Digital Night Vision
We’ve been using this for the last few months, and as far as a digital system goes, it has far exceeded expectations. It is pretty on par with the Nightfox Prowl NV but in a much smaller/sturdier package. It has been used for nighttime patrols, observation posts, and both active and passive shooting at night. Digital NVG’s have come a long way and I feel that this is probably the best representation of where the technology is currently at. Unlike most digital units, the Binock NVG50 doesn’t need IR to see at night, the first setting when turned on for use does not require the IR light. Below is a video example of using the NVG50 for a night shoot.
This was at 10pm with a 1/4 moon and clear sky. Target we are shooting is 150 yards away. The far treeline at the end of the range is 300 yards away.
3. Helikon-Tex Swagman Roll
I have been using the lighter weight version, the Swagman Basic, for 2 years now and while great for summer it really didn’t add any additional warmth over that of a standard poncho liner. So I decided to bite the bullet and recently upgraded to the regular Swagman Roll and my early use is that it is everything I wanted and more. I have used it as an overquilt and underquilt for my hammock and have worn it as an insulating laying in camp and while in OP/LP’s. It comes in a wide range of colors (prices vary based on color) and I think it is worth every penny. I went with the Multicam version since I plan on fitting it into my Minuteman needs in the field. This will also be going to the SERE Challenge as part of my insulating and sleep kit since it will perform the role of 2 different pieces of kit meaning I will not have to take as much into the field.
4. Acturus Sniper Veil
Sometimes it’s the simple pieces of kit that stand out, and the Arcturus Sniper Veil is one such item. Heavy duty yet comfortable to wear around your neck all day in the field. You can use it to break up your silhouette in the field whether it is while on the move or in an OP and you can use it to enhance your camo in an OP. It can help with bugs (pro tip, spray it with permethrin to help keep mosquitos, ticks, gnats, and deer flies at bay). I have owned many different sniper veils and this one blows all the others away.
5. Waterproof/Breathable Bivy Sack
Many years ago Gore’s patent on the original Gore-Tex expired opening up the case for everyone to use it and not having to pay the expensive licensing fees and material sourcing for it. Companies like Mil-Tec can offer their own version and you and me get to reap the benefits of a much lower price. While this “Gore-Tex” Bivy may not be the genuine USGI product, it is a solid option (with different camo choices available). I think a Waterproof/Breathable Bivy is a must have in every Minuteman’s kit and this one does not disappoint.
6. Pilots Flask
The USGI Pilots Flask has become a mainstay on my kit. At 16oz it fits in most GP pouches on chest rigs and LBE’s. I keep one in the GP pouch on my chest rig and on my split rig. It gives you an easily accessible water source on your rig without the bulk of a regular canteen. Plus you can pair it up with a metal nesting canteen cup for making a quick brew or for using to boil water for purification needs. The Pilots Flask is also perfect for storing your favorite Scotch or Bourbon while in the field.
7. Propper BDU Tops
These 60/40 classic BDU field tops are perfect for wearing in the field. They have the classic 4 pocket configuration and fold down collar and lend themselves to doing Raid Mods to. Available in Tiger Stripe, M81 Woodland (Gods Plaid), OD Green, and others you can pretty much have something to work in most environments. I have several of these exact tops and wearing one every time we head into the field. For the price you can’t go wrong.
8. Humanitarian Daily Rations
I know, I know, these are vegetarian but just simply add a tuna or diced chicken packet to them and they are good to go. There are 12 full daily rations to a case (2 entrees per daily ration) so that means 12 full days worth of food for $32. Probably the best bang for the buck for emergency field rations. Each daily ration includes 2 entrees, crackers, peanut butter and jelly, fig bar, toaster pastry, shortbread cookie, spoon, napkin, salt/pepper, red pepper flakes, wet wipe, and a book of matches. I have bought numerous cases of these and can’t complain one bit about them.
9. Mini Canister Fuel Stove
These are sold under numerous names (the ones I have are branded under ReHut) but for $7-$8 they have been solid in the field. I have 4 of them and the oldest is one I bought 8+ years ago and they are all still working. I have owned and used just about every brand canister fuel stove (MSR, Jet Boil, Peak One, Primus, etc…) and they are all essentially work the same. I like keeping one in a 750 titanium cup with a small fuel canister with some packets of instant coffee, a folding spork, a lighter, and a bandana. Makes for a perfect little brew kit.
10. LECPECON Weapons Light
This is a clone of the ever popular SureFire M300 and, while some complain of the tail cap switch being questionable, I have not had any issues with any of mine. I have bought 4 of these through the years and they are all still in operation on different rifle setups. My only complaint is that the CR123 battery it comes with is junk so just toss that out and put a real CR123 in it from your own stock, or better yet but a rechargeable CR123 or 16340’s in it.
Links to all the above:
34 Alpha Amazon Split Rig Clone
Binock NVG50 Digital Night Vision
Waterproof/Breathable Bivy Sack
