When it comes to reliable communication in remote environments, the GARMIN inReach Messenger Plus offers a unique set of features that set it apart from other satellite communication devices. It’s not just about sending an SOS in a life-or-death situation—this device is designed to keep you connected even in the most isolated parts of the world, allowing for text, photo, and voice messaging without cell service. This comprehensive review will dig deeper into what makes the inReach Messenger Plus a standout, as well as the areas where it might fall short.

Key Features at a Glance

• Text, Photo, and Voice Messaging Without Cell Service
• Interactive SOS Function with 24/7 Global Response
• TracBack Routing Feature for Easy Navigation
• Live GPS Location Sharing via Satellite
• Durable Design Rated IPX7 for Water Resistance
• Up to 25 Days of Battery Life
• Dimensions: 3.1″ x 2.5″ x 0.9″ ( 7.8 x 6.4 x 2.3 cm)
• Weight: 4.1 oz (117.2 g)
• MSRP: $499.99
• URL: garmin.com

These features alone make the inReach Messenger Plus sound like a solid choice for adventurers, but there’s much more to it, especially when paired with GARMIN’s smartphone apps or other GARMIN devices.

Above: When paired with a smartphone, the free Garmin app allows you to customize messages, track your movement, access your contents, get localized weather reports and access to many other features.

First Impressions: Simple Yet Capable

At first glance, the GARMIN inReach Messenger Plus might seem a little too simplistic. It has just three navigation buttons, a small monochrome LCD display, and a dedicated SOS button. But don’t let that fool you. Once you pair it with the GARMIN Explore or GARMIN Messenger smartphone apps, it transforms into a remote communication powerhouse.

What’s in the Box:

• inReach Messenger Plus device
• USB-C cable for charging
• Documentation

One noticeable omission is the lack of a lanyard. While GARMIN sells several lanyard options—like retractable, breakaway, and flotation lanyards—I found myself improvising with some tarred bank line. 550 cord is too thick to be practical here, so make sure you use some thin and tough cordage if you don’t want to buy an official accessory.

Above: The InReach’s tough casing ensures that it can stand up to harsh conditions without compromising it’s operability.

Performance and Features

Here’s where the inReach Messenger Plus shines: it’s incredibly versatile when paired with your smartphone, allowing you to send texts, photos, and even 30-second voice messages, all without needing any cell service. Here’s a breakdown of its most important features:

SOS and Safety Features:

One of the most crucial aspects of this device is the ability to send an interactive SOS message. If you’re in an emergency, your SOS will be routed through GARMIN’s 24/7-staffed Global Coordination Center. This isn’t just a one-way distress signal; you’ll have real-time communication with rescue teams, sharing your exact GPS coordinates via the Iridium satellite network.

Messaging and Communication:

You can send texts up to 1,600 characters directly from the device, but for a more user-friendly experience, pair it with the GARMIN Messenger app on your phone. The app supports:

• Group messaging for larger teams
• Emojis and reactions to simplify communication
• Text, photo, and voice messaging, allowing you to send more than just words

The ability to send a photo of your surroundings or a voice message explaining the situation can be game-changers in a survival scenario, helping search and rescue teams understand exactly what they’re dealing with before arriving on-site. This is something that traditional Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) don’t offer, even though they’re in a similar price range.

Navigation and Tracking:

The TracBack routing feature is another highlight. It lets you easily navigate back to your starting point if you need to retrace your steps, which can be essential if you’re caught in bad weather or disoriented in unfamiliar terrain. The device also allows you to share your live GPS location with others, so they can track your progress and location in real time.

• Navigation features:
  • TracBack routing for returning to your starting point
  • GPS, Galileo, QZSS, and BeiDou satellite systems
  • High-sensitivity receiver for precise location tracking
  • GARMIN Explore app compatibility for trip planning and tracking

Battery Life and Durability:

For a device designed to keep you safe and connected in the wilderness, the inReach Messenger Plus holds up under extreme conditions. The IPX7 water rating means it can handle being submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, and it’s impact-resistant, making it ideal for navigating rugged environments without having to worry about damaging the device.

As for battery life, it’s impressive:

• Up to 25 days in 10-minute tracking mode
• Up to 120 hours in low-power messaging mode
• Can send up to 250 media messages on a single charge

Additionally, the device doubles as an emergency charger for your phone, a feature that might make all the difference if you’re in a remote area and your phone dies unexpectedly.

Above: A Garmin InReach connected to your phone will give you weather forecasts for your specific location.

inReach or PLB?

Some people point out that Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs), which often have higher output wattages, can send a distress signal more reliably from beneath dense canopy cover. However, I haven’t found any solid evidence that PLBs outperform the inReach Messenger Plus in those scenarios. The benefit of the inReach lies in its ability to send custom messages, including photos of the emergency situation or even voice messages. This can be invaluable when rescue teams need to plan a specific extraction or know exactly what kind of equipment to bring.

Also, while a PLB requires battery replacements, the inReach Messenger Plus does not. You’ll need to activate a GARMIN subscription whenever you want to use it, but if you’re only going on occasional expeditions, this can still be less expensive than replacing a PLB battery. Plus, if you plan to use it as an everyday communication tool (as part of your EDC setup, for instance), the basic subscription tier is affordable.

Opinions

No product is perfect, and the inReach Messenger Plus does have a couple of minor downsides. First, the lack of a lanyard in the box seems like an oversight for a device that’s meant to be carried into rugged environments. Sure, you can buy one separately, but this feels like something that should come standard.

Additionally, while the device itself can send texts directly, the virtual keyboard on the monochrome display is cumbersome. If you want to message quickly, you’ll need to pre-prepare your messages or have your smartphone handy.

Final Thoughts

The GARMIN inReach Messenger Plus is a lightweight, reliable communication device that punches above its weight. While it may seem simplistic at first glance, its true power lies in its ability to pair with a smartphone and tap into GARMIN’s extensive suite of navigation and messaging apps. The ability to send photos, voice messages, and custom texts via satellite—coupled with its rugged build and excellent battery life—makes it a worthwhile investment for anyone venturing off the grid.

In summary:

• Pros:
  • Versatile messaging (text, voice, photo) without cell service
  • Long battery life and can serve as an emergency phone charger
  • Rugged and water-resistant
  • Interactive SOS with live communication via satellite
  • Compact and lightweight
• Cons:
  • No included lanyard
  • Typing messages on the device itself can be slow

For peace of mind, whether you’re hiking deep into the backcountry or just want a reliable communication tool for emergencies, the GARMIN inReach Messenger Plus delivers on its promises and is worth every penny.

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Knives by Nuge is a fixed blade knife maker out of New Jersey known for making hard use knives. His Wicket line has been wildly popular for the better part of 2 years with hunting enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and EDC users. The Wicket was originally designed as a small neck knife but has evolved to include an XL version that is still pocket friendly and Big Boi for full sized bushcraft use.  The success of the Wicket has allowed Knives by Nuge to branch out and bring back older designs like the Chickpea and introduce new designs like the Bruin we will be looking at today.

Above: The Knives by Nuge Wicket, Wicket XL, and Big Boi

Knives by Nuge Bruin Origins

According to Tom Nugent, owner of Knives by Nuge, the design idea for the Bruin came to him when he was processing a deer with his Wicket XL and needed a bit more reach. Taking some inspiration from two discontinued designs called the EDB and the Bushcrafter, Tom set out to create a dedicated hunting fixed blade knife with an ergonomic handle design, a good slicing belly, and enough blade length to get into the deeper cavities of a larger animal.

Like most KNB designs, Tom also wanted to ensure that the knife was easy to carry and would not get in the way when moving through the woods. Part of Tom’s prototyping process involves having trusted outdoor experts test it out in real life use scenarios. Through the testing process, he received a lot of positive feedback on the Bruin’s outdoor prowess, not just as a hunting knife but also as a bushcraft style knife, and he ultimately decided to offer the knife in both a saber grind and in a traditional scandi grind.

Knives by Nuge released the Bruin this year at the Georgia Bushcraft Fall Gathering and I got the opportunity to grab one of the first scandi grind versions in CPM-3V super steel.  As I spend a good deal of time in the woods doing bushcraft related tasks its hard to resist a scandi grind especially when it’s combined with a super tough steel like 3V!

Above: The Knives by Nuge Bruin with G10 scales, a scandi grind and CPM-3V super steel.

Knives by Nuge Bruin Design

The Bruin’s 3.75-inch blade is more than enough for game processing tasks and a majority of your typical outdoor and bushcraft tasks. The belly allows it to effectively perform slicing tasks that you’d expect from a hunting knife such as processing game to prepping meat for a camp meal. While many would argue the saber grind is a better option for slicing, the 3/32 inch blade stock combined with KBN’s sharp scandi grind did just fine when I used to cut meat, fruit and vegetables.

The Bruin’s spine has a 90-degree angle allowing it to be used for striking a ferro rod or performing wood scraping tasks, so you won’t need to potentially dull or damage your blade to get your fire started.

The blade point does a great job piercing while still having enough material behind it to prevent accidental breakage, especially when combined with tough steel options. Speaking of tough steel choices, this makes the Bruin ideal for hard use tasks such as batoning wood even with a relatively small blade and thinner stock.

The Bruin’s handle is ergonomic with some contouring for grip making it comfortable over long term use with a hammer grip and performing push cuts. There are scalloped areas closest to the blade that allow for a pinch grip when doing detailed work. The butt of the handle has a slight flare that helps prevent slipping when the Bruin is wet or covered in blood.

Bruin Fixed Blade Knife Specs

• Overall Length: 8.25 inches
• Blade Length: 3.75inches
• Handle Length: 4.50 inches
• Blade Grind: Saber or Scandi
• Steel Options: AEB-L, Nitro-V, CPM-3V
• Handle Materials: G10 or Micarta

Bruin Carry Options

The Bruin I got came with a custom made Kydex pocket sheath and Tom was kind enough to also give me one of the prototype leather belt sheaths made by Badger Claw Outfitters.

Above: The Custom made Kydex Pocket Sheath, makes a for a very slim package.

Kydex Pocket Sheath

The Kydex sheath is ambidextrous, allowing the knife to be inserted into the sheath in with the edge facing either direction. The knife is held in by a friction fit that is secure enough to prevent the knife from falling out, even when I tried to aggressively shake it, but still allow for easy draw. The pocket clip is made by Discreet Carry Concepts and has exceptional retention. There is a small drainage hole on the bottom of the sheath to allow water to exit the sheath should it get in.

Based on the size of the Bruin, I was a bit skeptical of the comfort of carrying it in my pocket, but I was pleasantly surprised that the full-sized knife not only fit in my pocket it did some comfortably and I was even able to put other items like my cell phone in the same pocket.

Above: The optional Badger Claw Outfitters leather belt sheath is a great choice for traditional carry.

Leather Belt Sheath

If you are looking for a more traditional fixed blade knife carry option, the leather belt sheath is an excellent option. The leather belt sheath made by Badger Claw Outfitters is made from Crazy Horse Leather, and in my experience only looks better with age! The Bruin sits snuggly in the sheath, with just enough handle exposed for good purchase to draw the knife. The belt loop is large enough to accommodate wide belts and can easily accept a dangler should you want it to ride a bit lower.

Above: The Bruin is an excellent Field knife that can serve as both a hunting knife and a bushcraft knife.

Final Thoughts

While my usage time on the Knives by Nuge Bruin is limited, I am impressed with the design. Through a weekend of use while camping as well as putting it to work as an EDC knife for a few days, and it performed admirably in all tasks. For outdoor use the Bruin seems like it fits the bill for an all-purpose field knife that can act as both a hunting knife and bushcraft knife. For EDC, it’s a great fixed blade if you are looking for an easy to carry full sized knife, that the overall size is not so apparent to others thanks to the pocket sheath.

The first batch of Bruin’s will be available on knivesbynuge.com on Friday, November 15^th 2024. As the Bruin is handmade, supplies are limited!

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Handkerchiefs, commonly called hanks, have made a resurgence in the outdoor and EDC communities in recent years. These simple pieces of fabric serve a variety of practical purposes in our day to day lives. Hanks primarily act as a reusable rag, but can be used as a simple water filter or face covering in an emergency. While a simple cotton hank is better than nothing, a lot is left to be desired in functionality in an emergency. Fortunately for those of us who want to take our EDC survival kit to the next level, the innovators over at Superesse decided to take the standard hank to the next level with their line of functional Handkerchiefs, including the Filter Bandana we will be looking at today.

Superesse Filter Bandana Materials and Specs

At first glance the Superesse Filter Bandana looks like a simple 10×10 cloth hank, similar to those commonly seen if cool EDC pictures on Instagram. Color options fall into your standard typical outdoor colors including OD Green, Coyote, Woodland Camo, and the safety orange I opted to pick up.

The Superesse Filter Bandana is constructed from a food safe hybrid polyester material. This allows it to resist microbial growth and dry quickly when wet.

That is where the similarity to standard cotton hanks ends! When you pick up the Superesse Filter Bandana, you will find it to be quite a bit thicker than an average hank. This is for a particularly good reason! Between the outer fabric layers there is a porous 1-micron filter that is flexible and foldable. This filter is what makes the Superesse Filter Bandana special and a powerful addition to any EDC survival kit.

 Superesse Filter Bandana Functionality

The hybrid fabric combined with the internal 1-micron filter makes the Superesse Filter Bandana a valuable urban and wilderness survival tool that goes well beyond the functionality of a standard hank.

Above: While the Filter Bandana will not seal like a mask, it can act as emergency protection for your airways in a pinch.

Air Filtration

In an emergency you can hold the Superesse Filter Bandana over your mouth and nose to protect your nasal pathways, lungs, and esophagus from harmful contaminants and infectious materials. The porous fabric and filter will not restrict the flow of oxygen, but will prevent dust, smoke, and chemicals in the air from entering your airway.

In addition to particulate contaminants, the Superesse Filter Bandana can filter out several biological threats. The 1-Micron filter will completely block larger environmental contaminants. These include fungal spores and pollen as well as some larger types of bacteria.

While many types of bacteria and all viral particles are smaller than 1-micron the filter can help protect from bacterial and viral particles found in droplet form from infected individuals coughing and sneezing.

Above: The Superesse Filter Bandana is a quick and effect way to filter large particulates, chemicals, and some pathogens from water.

Water Pre-Filtration

The Superesse Filtration Bandana has many of the same benefits and limitations as when filtering water. The filter can remove most particulate and chemical contaminants from water. This is especially helpful when sourcing water near farmland and industrial areas.

The filter will also remove several common waterborne parasites such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium. It can also help reduce the amount pathogens like Mycobacteria and Legionella that can sometimes be larger than 1-micron. The filter will not remove smaller bacteria, viral particles, and cytotoxins that certain algae produce.

When possible, it is essential to boil or chemically disinfect water before drinking it. The pre-filtration process will remove particulate and chemical contaminants that boiling and other disinfection methods will not remove.

When on the move during a survival situation it may not always be viable to spend time disinfecting water. The Filter Bandana is a great “better than nothing option” in theses cases.

Above: The Superesse Filter Bandana makes an excellent addition to any EDC Survival Kit.

Final Thoughts

If you plan on carrying a hank, it might as well be very functional! The functionality of the Superesse Filter Bandana makes it an excellent addition to any EDC Survival kit. Having a lightweight air and water filter that is easy to carry is a no brainer.

A protective face covering in a contaminant filled room can be the difference between safe egress and deadly results. The ability to remove chemical, particulate, and some biological threats in from water is also valuable.

While Proper water disinfection is always best, in an emergency the best gear is the gear you have on you!

Check out the Superesse Filter Bandana, along with the full line of functional hanks at superessestraps.com

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About Auxiliary Manufacturing

Mike Jarvis of Auxiliary Manufacturing has been making fixed blade knives full time since he left his career in the restaurant industry in 2016. He prides himself on unique designs and an unmistakable aesthetic. There is much more to an Auxiliary Manufacturing knife than simply good looks. The Pocket Bowie and all his other knives are designed for practical use. While most of his knives fall into the EDC fixed blade category, there is a distinct tactical knife flare to each of his designs. This unique combination allows users to have a knife that can handle all their day-to-day tasks, while also serving as a viable self defense tool in the right hands.

With stunning designs and practical applications, it comes as no surprise that Auxiliary Manufacturing won Custom Tactical Knife of the Year at 2022 Blade Show.

Auxiliary Manufacturing Pocket Bowie Design

At first look, the unique design of the Pocket Bowie stands out from just about every other small EDC fixed blade design out there. The coffin shaped handle and clip point blade is reminiscent of the classic American Bowie fighting knife. Unlike the classic American Bowie, the Auxiliary Manufacturing Pocket Bowie lives up to its namesake for being able to easily carry in your pocket thanks to its small profile and sleek kydex sheath.

Above: Details of the Pocket Bowie handle scales.

Handle Design and Control

The coffin shaped handle, combined with the textured G10 makes for an attractive package. The handle fills the hand well allowing for a comfortable three to four finger grip. The swell on the bottom of the handle locks into the meat of your palm, allowing for excellent control during use. The control over the blade is further enhanced with a slightly upswept thumb-rest on the spine of the blade.

When held in a reverse grip, the handle shape allows for a full four finger grip and the with a wide flat surface for your thumb on the butt of the handle. This allows for a secure grip and good control when using the Pocket Bowie in tactical knife applications.

The textured finish of the G10 may appear random, but each valley is created with the purpose of providing added grip, especially when wet. This valley pattern was initially used on one of Auxiliary Manufacturing’s discontinued knives called the Poon and has been a staple of the line up for over 8 years.

The scales are available in a variety of color options like the Green and Orange pictured, but they are also offered in subdued black G10 if you want something less flashy.

Note of the Wrapped Handle Pocket Bowie

While I do not own the wrapped variety, I did have the opportunity to handle them. While the wrap is not as hand-filling as the G10 they still have an excellent grip. The Flattened paracord is wrapped around genuine ray skin. The entire handle is treated with a marine grade epoxy making it just as solid and durable as the G10 counterparts. While the differences are mainly aesthetic, the wrapped variety is slightly slimmer and a bit nimbler in hand.

Above: The clip point tip and recurve blade work well in both practical and tactical applications.

Blade Design

Similar to the classic American Bowie, the Auxiliary Manufacturing Pocket Bowie features a clip point blade. The primary purpose of a clip point is to provide a fine piercing tip that is essential for tactical knife and hunting applications. The fine point of the clip point blade also is an excellent choice when doing detailed cuts making it practical on an EDC fixed blade.

The major drawback of a clip point is that the fine tip can be prone to accidental breakage. Auxiliary Manufacturing’s use of AEB-L steel reduces the risk, due to its elevated levels of toughness. Mike also incorporates a swedge that runs down the blade that not only looks good but adds a bit more material behind the tip to help protect it.

The Blade edge has a modified recurve that provides an excellent slicing belly that is ideal for any EDC fixed blade. The back of the blade has a small area that has a slight indent that can be used for wood processing similar to the rear of a tracker style blade.

Above: The Pocket Bowie carried in a pants pocket.

Carry System

The Auxiliary Manufacturing Pocket Bowie ships with a custom made Kydex sheath and removable pocket clip. The sheath is purpose designed to allow the provided clip to be mounted in different ways to accommodate various carry styles. The ability to quickly switch the clip direction makes this an ideal carry choice for the often-overlooked left-handed population.

The Sheath is also designed to accept multiple clip options, so if the provided clip isn’t your style, you can easily swap it out for something else. I personally prefer something with a bit more retention, so I swapped the original clip for an Ulti-Clip.

The Sheath fits very well in the pocket, with enough handle purchase to be able to quickly draw the blade when needed. This is important when we look at a tactical knife as the last thing any wants to do is fumble to access a knife in a high stress situation. As an EDC fixed blade, it carries comfortably without monopolizing your entire pocket.

While it does carry well in the pocket, the large amount of handle sticking out is not ideal for concealment. If concealed carry is a priority the Auxiliary Manufacturing Pocket Bowie sheath allows for multiple carry options. Out of the box the pocket bowie can be carried IWB. I also tested it with a soft loop for vertical belt carry and found it easy to conceal under an untucked button-down shirt and longer T-shirt.

Above: Attention to detail makes the Pocket Bowie stand out.

Build Quality

If one thing about the build quality stands out about the Auxiliary Manufacturing Pocket Bowie, it is the incredible attention to detail. While Mike no longer cuts the blanks in his shop, all the grinding work is 100% done by hand. Every detail of the blade grind is well thought out and well executed. The blade grind is even, the detailed lines of the swedge are excellent, and anywhere your fingers are supposed to rest are chamfered for comfort. The Handle texturing is also done by hand, with the same diligence.

Overall, the purpose driven design, excellent material choices, and incredible attention to detail ensure the Auxiliary Manufacturing Pocket Bowie comes out of the box looking as good as it functions!

Pocket Bowie Spec Sheet

• Overall Length: 6.25 inches
• Blade Length: 3 inches
• Weight: G10 Model 4.66 oz
• Blade Steel: AEB-L
• Other Steel Options: Occasional drops in specialty steels including Damascus.
• Blade Shape: Clip Point with a modified recurve
• Handle Material: Textured G10 or Ray Skin/Nylon Wrap
• Sheath: Custom made Kydex, with pocket clip
• Price: $239-449 depending on configuration
• Made In: Reno, Nevada

Above: The Pocket Bowie’s recurve blade makes it an ideal addition to your EDC lineup. It is pictured here with a Superesse Filter Bandana, Bastion Blot Action Pen, PNWBUSHCRAFT EDC travel Tray, and Leatherman Sidekick.

Practical Applications of the Auxiliary Manufacturing Pocket Bowie

As an EDC Fixed Blade, the Auxiliary Manufacturing Pocket Bowie checks all the boxes. The blade is small enough where it does not feel overwhelming when performing daily tasks. Easily breaking down boxes, opening packages, and cutting the occasional piece of fruit or meat.

The blade is easy to manipulate and control, reducing the risk of injury and miscuts during more detailed work. The piercing clip point is great when you must puncture tougher packaging materials.

Many of my daily tasks involve some kind of work in the woods. The Pocket Bowie wouldn’t be my first choice as a dedicated bushcraft knife. This is not a knock at the knife as Mike did not design the Pocket Bowie for that application. That being said, The Pocket Bowie still performs admirably during basic plant material processing, minor carving tasks, and making kindling.

While I did not process any game with it, I did use the Pocket Bowie to take apart a whole chicken. The clip point provided easy access to areas close to the bone, and the recurve blade did a superb job slicing meat. In a pinch the Pocket Bowie would be more than capable of processing small game animals.

Above: The Auxiliary Manufacturing Pocket Bowie is a great addition to any defensive kit. It is pictured here with an ASP Spectrum UV Flash Light, and ASP Defender Sport Pepper Spray.

Tactical Applications of the Auxiliary Manufacturing Pocket Bowie

Disclaimer:

I recommend that if you intend on using a knife as a tactical or defensive tool to get formal training. Without the proper training there is a higher likelihood of the knife being used against you.

Any trained person will give you two important pieces of advice.

• When using a knife in a combative situation expect to be cut by your own knife!
• The best way to survive a knife fight is to not be in a knife fight!

While it may be too small to be a dedicated fight knife, the Auxiliary Manufacturing Pocket Bowie offers significant benefits as a tactical knife.  First, it is small enough to be easily and discreetly carried. Second, many municipalities have laws restricting larger knives.

Beyond it’s compact size the Pocket Bowie packs some valuable features. The clip point, recurve blade, and solid grip make the Pocket Bowie a great option for a last-ditch defensive tool. In a combative situation maintaining control of your knife is vital. A solid grip reduces the chance of an attacker getting your knife. The clip points ability to pierce thicker materials provides great value. An assailant, just like any of us will likely dress for the season. In colder months attacker may have coats or sweatshirts on making slicing maneuvers less effective.

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for a practical knife with a side of tactical the Pocket Bowie is a great option. It’s small size, ergonomics, and practical blade shape make it a highly functional EDC fixed blade. The clip point blade, solid grip, and carry options allow the Pocket Bowie to have significant Tactical knife applications.

The Pocket Bowie is 100% made in the USA. Each knife is ground, assembled, and finished by Mike with incredible attention to detail and workmanship. The Pocket Bowie is a well designed and made small knife, but there are some larger options coming! For a larger bowie style be on the look out for the upcoming Pocket Bowie XL release. The XL will feature a 4-inch blade and an 8.5 inch overall length. The increased size greatly enhancing its outdoor, hunting, and tactical applications.

Sources

• Auxiliary Manufacturing
• ASP
• Superesse
• Bastion
• PNWBUSHCRAFT
• Leatherman
• Swedge Media

Above: The new line up of coffin handle knives. Photo by Swedge Media

More Coffin Handle Knives

The immense popularity of the Pocket Bowie has led Mike to expanding the line up with different blade shapes. While a bowie style blade is excellent, different users have different needs. The brand-new line up features 4 additional blade styles. These include an American Style Tanto, a Wharncliffe with a reinforced tip, a leaf shaped blade, and a spearpoint. These new blade shapes bring new levels of functionality to the lineup, while maintaining the excellent ergonomics of the original. They are currently available for purchase in black G10 or black paracord wrapped handles.

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Being a search and rescue (SAR) volunteer can be as demanding (physically and mentally) as it is rewarding, but having quality equipment designed to help you out in that role can certainly make it easier. In the wilderness, it’s imperative that you have easy access to your most important tools and equipment across preparedness domains to reduce the chances that you become a casualty yourself while you’re helping others. A good chest rig excels in keeping your most critical gear in your workspace while keeping your hands free as needed. One very fine option, and my personal favorite is the Hill People Gear SARv2 Kit Bag.

Above: The Hill People Gear SARv2 gear bag is laid out with search and rescue responders in mind.

The SARv2 Bag

The SARv2 is constructed from 500d Cordura nylon, with an internal volume of 215.63 cubic inches. It is largely based off the original HPG full-size kit bag, with some touches that make it well suited to the specific needs of search and rescue.

Two key features are external PALS/Molle webbing in two places — along the bottom of the bag, as well as diagonally across the front — and hook-and-loop on the outside. The hook-and-loop allows the attachment of identifiers such as name tags or unit patches, while the PALS webbing allows for adding expansion attachments or other items. I use the diagonal PALS webbing to hold my communications equipment, while the bottom webbing is used to secure a MOLLE tourniquet holder from North American Rescue (NAR).

Internally, the bag is split into three compartments, two of which zipper from the top, and one of which zippers on the front.
The compartment closest to the body is intended to hold your personal protection, being large enough to carry a full-size handgun. It features a loop for a trigger guard tie-down and a strip of loop, which would allow you to attach a hook-and-loop holster or magazine pouch.
The main compartment does, however, include laser-cut MOLLE, as well as two internal divider sleeves.

The harness itself is comfortable and adjustable, with a well-ventilated mesh back piece. It can be removed in order to integrate with the Hill People Gear Recce Harness, which allows for direct attachment to the wearer’s back. Unfortunately, the Recce Harness is very often sold out, which is why I haven’t had the opportunity to acquire one yet.

Above: The included harness has a mesh backing panel. If extra attachments are needed, the HPG Recce Harness is compatible with all HPG chest rigs.

The SARv2 Contents

Personal Protection:

• I will generally carry my “main squeeze” handgun here — a Glock 45 MOS with a Trijicon RMR, backup suppressor-height night sites, and a Streamlight TLR-VIR II weapon light + IR flood and designator. I use a TriggerSafe trigger guard tied down with 550 cord. A spare magazine is held in a 5.11 single magazine pouch.

Admin:

• I primarily use the admin compartment for navigational and documentation aids and their accessories.

The permanent contents include:

• Suunto MC-2 compass
•  MapTools coordinate scale and protractor
•  Rite in the Rain pencil and pen (both in Coast Guard orange)
•  Rite in the Rain general-purpose notebook (either orange or yellow)
•  Rite in the Rain EMS patient information notebook
•  Streamlight PolyTac in high-vis yellow
•  Waterproof battery case with extra lithium CR123 and AAA batteries
•  USB battery bank

Paper maps as well as my Android phone running SARTopo/CalTopo also move in and out of this compartment. SARTopo is a common operating picture (COP) overlay service on the CalTopo GPS navigational program, which is my SAR team’s primary method of navigation. However, analog (map and compass) navigation skills and tools are always carried as well.

Above: Admin equipment I carry includes spare batteries, Rite in the Rain notepads, pen, and pencil, and a Streamlight PolyTac handheld flashlight. For land nav, I carry a Suunto MC-2 compass and a grid protractor.

Sustainment:

• The sustainment pouch in front contains my personal first-aid items.
• high-value sustainment items.

Contents include:

• Windstorm safety whistle
•  Adventure Medical Kits personal first-aid and survival kit
•  Snake bite kit
•  TP kit
•  Assorted electrolyte drink mixes
•  Jerky and nuts (rotated)

Above: The bottom of the rig has PALS webbing suitable for attaching a NAR tourniquet holder.

External Attachments:

• I use the external MOLLE to attach my communications equipment and personal-use tourniquet.
• The radio is a Radioddity GS-5B, in a high-vis orange. It is a software-unlockable ham radio that can also function on GMRS/FRS and MURS bands, allowing me to integrate into the team radio nets easily, as well as being useful for general communications purposes.
• The tourniquet on board is a NAR CAT gen 7, in a NAR tourniquet holder with a matching red color.

Above: The admin compartment features a hook-and-loop, laser-cut MOLLE panel as well as two internal dividers.

SARv2 Shortcomings

Honestly, I only have one real negative regarding the design of the SARv2, and that is the lack of laser-cut MOLLE in the handgun compartment. Personally, I could live without the MOLLE in the admin compartment. The single strip of female-side hook-and-loop, while handy for sticking a holster, doesn’t offer a good solution for securing most pistol magazine pouches.
In my area of operations in Central Texas, the natural threats from feral hogs and snakes, to say nothing of any potential human threats I might encounter when on a search, make this use case one of particular interest to me. The same layout is present in other HPG chest rigs, so it isn’t just a failing with the SARv2.

A magazine pouch could be attached inside the admin compartment, but this is suboptimal in the situation where the wearer needs to draw a gun and address a threat. If you are on a SAR team for a sheriff’s department or other LEO and are allowed to open carry, this isn’t an issue at all — you can use this compartment for something else.

Above: I keep a CAT 7 tourniquet on the rig for quick access in a SAR emergency.

Final Thoughts

Would I recommend the SARv2? Absolutely. I spent my own money on it and sing its praises to my SAR team all the time. I take it with me and my family on state and national park outings as well, not just when on duty with the SAR team.
For the lack of MOLLE in the handgun compartment, I can’t say that it is perfect. For search-and-rescue and other public safety workers and volunteers, however, this chest rig is definitely fit for purpose and won’t disappoint.

Sources

Hill People Gear

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The TOPS MSK or Mini Scandi Knife is a compact, rugged tool designed with minimalism and functionality at its core. Known for the TOPS modified scandi grind and exceptional build quality, the MSK is an all-around knife that’s ideal for the outdoor enthusiasts from bushcrafters to campers and everyone in between.  Whether you’re looking for an everyday carry or a handy tool for carving or whittling in the wild, the MSK offers durability and precision in a compact package. Being a small knife does the MSK live up to the TOPS reputation of hard use overbuilt knives? Let’s dive in and see what MSK has to offer.

Design and Carry Options

The MSK’s small size allows it to work out great in a variety of carry styles. It’s small enough to be a neck knife, but works great in the pocket, IWB or clipped onto a backpack. The slim sheath makes for a compact package that is easy to carry on your person and takes up very little room in a pack or pouch.

The MSK is 6.13” long from butt to tip, the blade and actual cutting edge is exactly 3” long. Despite being a small knife, it still gives you a good bit of useable edge for outdoor and survival tasks. The handle provides a comfortable 3 finger grip and a lanyard can be added to get that full hand grip.

TOPS MSK Steel

Like many TOPS Knives the blade steel is tough 1095 high carbon steel. 1095 is commonly found in outdoor knives, and the TOPS heat treatment brings out 1095’s best properties. Even with its small size, the tough steel ensures the TOPS MSK will be a little tank of a knife.

While it may not have the edge retention found in modern super steels, if you need to sharpen it on the fly you can pretty much grab a smooth rock and get a working edge back on your knife.

What Can the TOPS MSK Do?

The TOPS MSK is a versatile and reliable knife. In the wilderness the scandi grind allows it help you process wood and build a fire or shelter. It can also help prepare food and even act as a last-ditch defensive tool if needed.

The small size and ergonomics also makes it a great option for an EDC fixed blade. The modified scandi grind has no problem cutting packages, tape, strings, and whatever else you come across in your daily life.

It’s a valuable tool that fits pretty much any kit or style of carry without being a burden. Its size maybe be deceiving but this tool can handle any and everything you throw at it, and it’ll ask for more.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the TOPS MSK is a great little tool that’s as tough as it is handy. It has the durability you’d expect from TOPS, with an ergonomic handle that feels solid in the hand. Whether you’re outdoors or need a reliable everyday carry, this knife won’t let you down. If you’re on the hunt for a compact blade that will get the job done, the MSK is worth a spot in your kit!

Check out the MSK and the full line of hard use TOPS Knives on topsknives.com

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In the realm of survival tools, few items are as essential as a reliable, compact firearm. Dark Mountain Arms, a veteran-owned company, has designed the Stowaway Rifle and Pistol to meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts, survivalists, and anyone looking for lightweight, packable firearms. These single-shot firearms aren’t just ultralight — they’re adaptable, suppressor-ready, and easy to break down for transportation. Fortunately, we got our hands on these to explore the features, practical applications, and real-world performance of the Dark Mountain Arms Stowaway series of firearms.

After the barrel is seated, the shroud is screwed in place and locks it firmly together. When it is broken down, the entire firearm fits nicely in a variety of day packs.

Dark Mountain Arms Stowaway Rifle

The standout feature of the Dark Mountain Stowaway Rifle is its packable design. With a barrel length of 16 inches, the rifle can be taken down into two parts, reducing its total length to less than 17 inches. This makes it ideal for packing into backpacks during long hikes, camping trips, or survival situations. Despite its small footprint, the rifle can be assembled in less than 30 seconds, making it quick to deploy when needed.

Weighing just over 4 pounds, even with an optic attached, the Stowaway Rifle remains incredibly light without compromising its durability. Its minimalistic design makes it easy to carry for extended periods, and the threaded barrel allows for the attachment of suppressors or other barrel accessories, adding to its versatility. The ½x28 thread pitch ensures compatibility with a wide range of accessories, including compensators and flash hiders.

Caliber Swapping and Optics-Ready Rail

One of the rifle’s most versatile features is its ability to swap calibers easily. By changing out the bolt face and barrel, you can quickly adjust the rifle to suit different needs. This adaptability makes it particularly appealing to survivalists who may need to shift between calibers based on the availability of ammunition.

The rifle comes optics-ready, equipped with a Picatinny rail that allows you to attach a variety of sighting systems. We mounted the Primary Arms GLx 1x MicroPrism for testing the rifle, an optic with clarity and wide field of view. This optic also complements the rifle’s lightweight and compact design perfectly, adding a mere 9.1 ounces to the total weight. When paired with the GLx, the combined weight of the Stowaway Rifle and optic remained well under 5 pounds, a significant advantage for those trekking long distances with their gear.

Suppression-Ready for Stealth Hunts

Its ability to attach a suppressor makes the Stowaway Rifle a top choice for small game hunting, particularly in scenarios where stealth is critical. Whether you’re hunting rabbits, squirrels, or other small game in a survival situation, the ability to reduce noise is invaluable. A suppressed shot is less likely to alert other animals, giving you a better chance at landing multiple kills in a single outing.

The pistol assembles and disassembles the same as the rifle, but with an even more compact profile.

Dark Mountain Arms Stowaway Pistol

While the Stowaway Rifle offers a balance between portability and power, the Stowaway Pistol pushes the concept of a survival firearm even further. This bolt-action pistol is designed to be just as packable and versatile as the rifle. The barrel is removable, making it easy to break down and stow in a small pack or compartment. Despite its large format, the pistol remains easy to handle, particularly for close-range encounters.

During testing, the SIG Sauer Romeo-MSR was mounted on the pistol’s Picatinny rail. The optic’s lightweight design paired well with the pistol, adding minimal bulk while providing clear, parallax-free sighting. We found the Romeo to be a good choice for the Stowaway Pistol, as it added only 4.9 ounces to the total weight, keeping the pistol light and maneuverable.

If you’re a right-handed shooter, resting the thumb of your support hand on the charging handle makes handling the pistol less awkward.

Smaller Size, Same Capabilities

Like the rifle, the Dark Mountain Arms Stowaway pistol comes threaded for suppressors (½x28 thread), making it a great option for discrete, close-range shooting. This is particularly useful in situations where you may need to shoot without drawing attention, or where you’re hunting small game and want to remain as quiet as possible.

Caliber swaps are just as easy with the pistol as with the rifle, offering the same flexibility to change out the barrel and bolt face. This adaptability means that, much like the rifle, the Stowaway Pistol can be tailored to different situations, whether you need a higher velocity round for hunting or a smaller caliber for target shooting.

The recoil of the rifle is almost non-existent, making it a stable platform to aim with.

SBR Kit for Added Stability

The pistol can also be upgraded with a 1913 Style Adapter kit, which allows the shooter to add a stock for improved stability and control. This is an excellent option for those who want to maximize the pistol’s performance for more precise shooting.

Dark Mountain Arms Stowaway Performance and Real-World Applications

When testing both firearms at the range, we were impressed with the balance and performance, especially given the lightweight nature of both setups. One unique aspect of the Dark Mountain Arms Stowaway Pistol is its left-side bolt placement, which can be a little awkward for right-handed shooters. Placing your support thumb on the charging handle, while resting the shooting thumb on top, resolves this issue and allows for smoother operation. It’s a minor adjustment, but one that’s important to get used to if you plan to use the pistol regularly.

For survivalists, both the Stowaway Rifle and Pistol provide reliable, lightweight options that can be easily packed away until needed. Their single-shot designs may not be ideal for high-threat scenarios, but they encourage precision and patience, which can be a major advantage in situations where ammunition is scarce.

The ability to quickly swap calibers makes both firearms adaptable for a range of survival scenarios, from small game hunting to self-defense. And with their suppressor-ready barrels, you can operate more stealthily in the field, a critical feature when trying to avoid detection.

Being single shot with no magazine means that the shooter is forced to make the shot count.

Recreational Use

Though designed for survival, these Dark Mountain Stowaway firearms are also well-suited for recreational shooting. Their low recoil and ease of handling make them ideal for younger or less experienced shooters, while their compact designs make them fun and convenient for backpacking trips, camping, or off-the-grid excursions. With price points under $400, they’re also affordable enough to be enjoyed by a wide range of users.

Final Thoughts on the Dark Mountain Arms Stowaway Rifle and Pistol

Both the Dark Mountain Arms Stowaway Rifle and Pistol are perfect examples of how modern firearms can be designed for portability, adaptability, and performance, all at an affordable price. These firearms are designed to be companions for campers, overlanders, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Their ultralight weight, suppressor readiness, and optics compatibility make them versatile solutions for a variety of scenarios. Whether you’re planning an extended backcountry trip or simply preparing for the unexpected, the these firearms strike the right balance between features and performance.

Sources

Dark Mountain Arms

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Editor’s Note: This article has been modified from its original version for the web.

The post Dark Mountain Arms Stowaway Rifle & Pistol appeared first on RECOIL OFFGRID.

When most people think of handheld flashlights, they don’t think of flat Flaslights. They probably envision a cylindrical device. This isn’t surprising, given the round shape of traditional batteries and reflectors designed to direct and focus the beams of light. For decades, we’ve carried cylindrical flashlights, whether stashed in pockets or on our belts.

Is that a flashlight in your pocket, or are you just happy to see me?
But when you give more thought to your daily carry flashlight, wouldn’t a flat rather than a rounded shape make more sense? Slimmer in your pocket and less bulky on your belt, a flat flashlight is more space-
efficient, discreet, and comfortable to carry.

SureFire kicked off the flat flashlight category in 2018 with their Stiletto pocket flashlight, at just under 4.5 inches long and weighing less than 3 ounces. By incorporating an integrated, rechargeable lithium polymer battery rather than using standard replaceable batteries, SureFire was able to achieve a unique, flat housing. Meanwhile, advances in LED technology and reflector design allowed the Stiletto to output 650 lumens of light, despite its small size.

Fast-forward to today, and numerous companies now offer flat flashlights, with varying mixes of features, size, light output, and price points. Naturally, the larger the flashlight, the more output, battery life, and features you can expect.

LED emitters and reflectors keep getting better, and SureFire and Nitecore have new offerings with dual emitters generating staggering amounts of light to reach out into the darkness and punch through barriers. Coast has options for a secondary night-vision-friendly red beam or a laser.

Feature sets run the gamut from simple to programmable, with one-, two-, and three-button interfaces, multi-stage buttons, rocker switches, and even small OLED displays to display status and settings. Several flashlights can also be physically customized, with optional lanyards, configurable pocket clips, and button guards.

All the lights shown here charge via USB-C. Integrated rechargeable batteries come with the territory for this style of flashlight; if you’re still reading this article, we figure you’re OK with that. Of course, we still recommend you have other flashlights in your stable that take standard batteries.

This is an impressive batch of flat flashlights that we enjoyed testing, and they’re fantastic for daily carry. You’ll find one to love too.

5.11 Tactical Deploy PL-USB

Output: 30 / 300 lumens (740 candela)
Dimensions: 0.6 by 1 by 4.2 inches
Weight: 1.9 ounces
Battery capacity: 1,050 mAh
Runtime: 1.5 to 9.5 hours
MSRP: $60
URL: 5.11 Tactical

This diminutive flat flashlight from 5.11 Tactical nearly disappears when you stash it. “PL” stands for “pocket light,” and it’s intended to fill that gap below more powerful tactical lights. It’s tiny, light, affordable, and bright — but nowhere near as blinding as the bigger lights. With two output levels, the Deploy PL-USB puts out 300 lumens, 740 candela with 50 meters of throw on high, and 30 lumens, 100 candela on low. Switchology with this light is simple with a single, rubber-covered tail switch that’s protected from inadvertent activation by a fence surrounding it. A half-press activates momentary-on, while a full press clicks into constant-on mode. Following with another press switches from high to low and back again.

The housing is comprised of anodized aluminum, and the lens is polycarbonate. The small pocket clip is removable if you wish to go without. The USB-C charging port is on the side, with a rubber cover and a bicolor charging indicator underneath. The light is rated IPX4 for water resistance and to 1 meter for impacts.
Available in black and ranger green.

Pros:

• So small and light, you’ll have no excuse to ever be without a flashlight
• Intuitive and dead-nuts-simple operation with a nice tail switch
• Switch guard prevents negligent light discharges
• Light defaults to high mode, our preference for a tactical light

Cons:

• For a utility flashlight, you might wish it to default to low mode.
• Low tension on pocket clip; easy to slip in and out of your pockets, but can lose grip on thinner fabrics
• Not super bright, but that’s to be expected for its size

5.11 Tactical Deploy TL-USB

Output: 80 / 500 / 1,000 lumens (2,540 candela)
Dimensions: 0.6 by 1.3 by 4.9 inches
Weight: 3.5 ounces
Battery capacity: 1,650 mAh
Runtime: 1 to 7 hours
MSRP: $80
URL: 5.11 Tactical

This flat flashlight is the top of 5.11 Tactical’s family of Deploy flashlights, with “TL” representing “tactical light.” Just under 5 inches long, it befits its name by outputting 1,000 lumens and 2,540 candela on high, with 100 meters of throw. Successive button presses cycle through medium and low modes, ratcheting down to 500 and 80 lumens, respectively. The rubber-covered tail switch defaults to high mode.

On the side of the light is a flush-mounted rubber button that displays the fuel gauge, with four LED segments showing the battery’s state of charge. The USB-C port has a rubber cover and charges the internal lithium-polymer battery.

The anodized aluminum housing is ribbed for a secure grip, with two sets of channels to accept the removable pocket clip — allowing for two height settings, one for deeper carry and the other with the tail standing proud of your pocket. Additionally, raised switch guards mitigate negligent light discharge; you can remove either or both, if you wish. 5.11 rates the light to 1 meter for impacts and IPX4 for water resistance.

Pros:

• Solid light output
• Tension on pocket clip is just right, clipping in smoothly but also hanging on to fabric
• Switch guard to mitigate inadvertent activation
• Customizability of pocket clip and switch guards to fit your preference

Cons:

• Tail switch is a bit fiddly to activate from certain angles

COAST Products Slayer Red

Output: 10 / 110 / 530 / 1,000 lumens
Dimensions: 0.8 by 1.1 by 5.4 inches
Weight: 3.5 ounces
Runtime: 2 to 55 hours
MSRP: $85
URL: Coast

The new Slayer Red flat flashlight from Coast Products is for fans of thumb switches. Looking at the business end, you’ll notice two emitters. The primary one is a white spot beam with a turbo mode that pushes 1,000 lumens out to 110 meters. Activate it by holding down the rubberized forward power button for one second; it’ll stay in this mode for 40 seconds then revert back to the previous setting. In regular use, you can cycle through high, low, and “moon glow” modes, corresponding to 530, 110, and 10 lumens. In the latter, the Slayer can last for 55 hours. The light always defaults to high with the first press, and there’s no momentary activation mode.

The other emitter is a red flood to preserve your night vision. Press the rear button to cycle from high to low mode, then off again. There’s a nub on the forward button, so you can tell them apart by feel. Instead of the red LED, other variants of the Slayer have a laser pointer or another white emitter, contributing to 1,150 lumens of total output.

Made of aluminum, the Slayer has serrations and contours for a comfortable grip, as well as two magnets so you can attach it to something for hands-free illumination. Bicolor LEDs shine through the power buttons to display battery status. The USB-C port for charging is under a rubber cover on its tail end, where we would have liked a switch for tactical use. The Slayer is rated IP57 for dust and water resistance (up to 1 meter of immersion).

Pros:

• Good tension on the pocket; smoothly slips into place while remaining secure
• Red beam is very useful in certain circumstances
• Magnets are convenient to slap the Slayer on metal surfaces

Cons:

• No momentary activation
• Not as well suited for tactical applications
• Bit larger than other lights given its light output

Nitecore EDC27 UHi

Output: 15 / 65 / 200 / 1,100 / 3,100 lumens (23,500 candela)
Dimensions: 0.9 by 1.2 by 5.3 inches
Weight: 4.2 ounces
Battery capacity: 1,700 mAh
Runtime: 1.5 to 55 hours
MSRP: $90
URL: Nitecore

Nitecore’s new EDC27 UHi is an updated version of their popular ED27 flat flashlight, with more powerful UHi LEDs. In turbo mode, its dual emitters blast 3,100 lumens and 23,500 candela out to 305 meters. Four other modes span from 15 to 1,100 lumens, with the ultra-low mode lasting for 55 hours. Nitecore packed this light full of features, but you’ll need the manual to figure them out.

A small OLED display shows brightness level, battery level, runtime, lockout mode, and a countdown for turbo mode, which gets toasty and cuts off after about 9 seconds in our testing.

There are dual two-stage buttons on the tail end, one inset and one proud, so you can tell them apart. The inset one is the mode button — half-press and hold to immediately activate turbo mode. After it times out, it drops down to high mode. A full press activates strobe mode. Both are momentary. The tall button is the power button; half-press and hold to immediately turn on ultra-low mode. Consecutively half-clicking the button cycles through the four output modes, displaying the selection on the screen, so that you can preset the mode before turning it on. A full press turns on the light.

You can engage two lock-out modes — one deactivates the tall power button, the easiest to inadvertently hit, while leaving the inset button intact. The other nullifies both buttons. The process is fiddly until you get used to it.
The housing is a PVD-coated stainless steel shell with carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer frame. It’s IP54 rated and impact resistant to 1 meter. Comes with a lanyard.

Pros:

• Impressive light output in a great form factor
• Most of the body is only half an inch thick, so the light feels very thin in your pocket
• Features are great once you crest the learning curve
• Good amount of tension on pocket clip
• Good value

Cons:

• User interface can be confusing at first
• Tall power button can be hit accidentally
• Fussy lock-out sequence

Nitecore EDC29

Output: 15 / 100 / 400 / 1,200 / 3,000 / 6,500 lumens (40,230 candela)
Dimensions: 0.9 by 1.4 by 5.3 inches
Weight: 5.5 ounces
Battery capacity: 2,500 mAh
Runtime: 2 to 61 hours
MSRP: $110
URL: Nitecore

Nitecore built a tremendous beast of a flat flashlight with their new EDC29. Its dual LEDs have 18 cores and can output both spot and flood beams. The “search” spotlight mode puts out 3,000 lumens and 40,230 candela out to 400 meters, while the floodlight mode blasts a blinding 6,500 lumens and 35,360 candela to 370 meters. The four regular modes range from 15 to 1,200 lumens. With a hefty 2,500 mAh battery, the ultra-low mode can run for 61 hours.

Like its little brother, the EDC29 bristles with features, with a physical lock-out switch to avoid fiddly button presses. The two tail switches function similarly, with the inset customizable button activating the search spotlight mode at half-press and either floodlight or strobe mode at full-press, depending on how you configure it. The tall power button works the same as the EDC27, cycling through modes with half presses and entering constant-on mode with a full press.

The OLED display also shows brightness and battery levels, runtime, lockout mode, and a countdown for spotlight/floodlight mode, cutting off after about 8 seconds in our testing.

The housing is a PVD-coated stainless steel shell with carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer frame, rated IP54 for dust/water resistance and to 1 meter for impacts. Comes with a lanyard.

Pros:

• Absolutely scorching light output
• Unique ability to switch between spot and flood for differing needs and situations
• Rich set of features
• Physical lock-out switch
• Excellent value

Cons:

• Pocket clip is excessively tight
• User interface can be confusing at first
• Tall power button can be hit accidentally

Streamlight Wedge XT

Output: 50 / 500 lumens
Dimensions: 0.6 by 1 by 4.25 inches
Weight: 2.6 ounces
Battery capacity: 950 mAh
Runtime: 2 to 11 hours
MSRP: $155
URL: Streamlight

Streamlight’s Wedge XT flat flashlight feels “just right” as a very compact, general-purpose EDC utility light that can also fill the tactical role if needed. It’s very small, so it maxes out in high mode at 500 lumens and 1,900 candela out to 87 meters. The tail switch cycles between high and 50-lumen low mode, which lasts for 11 hours.

The switch behaves like other Streamlight products, where a quick tap activates constant-on while a longer press is momentary. Clicking it five times locks out the switch to prevent unintended activation. Meanwhile, clicking it 10 times allows you to choose between high mode or low mode first.

The Wedge XT comes with a convenient, small lanyard that attaches to the pocket clip, which positions the light very deep in your pocket. The housing is anodized aluminum in your choice of black or coyote, with a polycarbonate lens. The USB-C charging port is exposed, but the light is still rated IPX7 for water resistance to one meter. There’s a bicolor LED to indicate charging status.

Pros:

• Great small, general-purpose EDC flashlight
• Simple, configurable operation with nice tail switch
• We liked the lanyard design so much, we wanted to use it on other lights too
• Pocket clip has good amount of tension

Cons:

• Not as bright as the others, but it’s a very small light

Streamlight Wedge Slim

Output: 300 / 1,000 lumens (3,000 candela)
Dimensions: 0.6 by 1 by 5.5 inches
Weight: 3.1 ounces
Battery capacity: 1,500 mAh
Runtime: 3 hours (35 second bursts in high mode)
MSRP: $168
URL: Streamlight

If you prefer thumb switches on your flat flashlight, the Streamlight Wedge is for you. It has a unique, tactile rotating switch that’s easy to find and operate by touch. Rotate it forward and it clicks into constant-on in the lower 300-lumen mode. Keep pushing further forward, and it’s spring-loaded for momentary high mode. In this mode, the Wedge outputs 1,000 lumens and 3,000 candela out to 110 meters. That’s it; there’s no other settings or modes to worry about. Note that the high mode is limited to 35-second bursts.

The case is anodized aluminum and available in black, coyote, blue, red, or purple; the latter three colors are $5 extra. The clip is positioned for deep pocket carry and can be installed on either side of the light (though always head-down). There’s a bicolor charging indicator, and the USB-C charging port is located at the tail end of the light. It’s exposed, but the light is IPX7-rated for water immersion to one meter.

Pros:

• True to its name, it’s very slim
• Great for those who like thumb switches
• Simple, intuitive operation
• Good tension on the pocket clip

Cons:

• Lacks a low mode
• A bit long
• We prefer tail switches for tactical use.

SureFire Stiletto Pro II

Output: 25 / 500 / 1,500 lumens (35,000 candela)
Dimensions: 0.9 by 1.7 by 4.9 inches
Weight: 4.9 ounces
Battery capacity: 1,600 mAh
Runtime: 1 to 23.5 hours
MSRP: $379
URL: Surefire

For mission-critical hard use, we’d reach for the SureFire Stiletto Pro II flat flashlight — and not surprisingly, our wallets will suffer accordingly. The dual optic design throws 1,500 lumens and 35,000 candela out to 375 meters, with a hybrid beam pattern that also provides a good amount of spill light. For tactical use, the rubber tail switch immediately actuates high mode in either momentary- or constant-on fashion, depending on your preference. Triple-tapping the tail switch activates a rapid strobe. Raised switch guards mitigate negligent light discharges.

On the side of the flashlight are two flat rubber buttons, inset below the surface to avoid accidental activation. The primary switch cycles between high, medium, and low output modes, down to 25 lumens for 23.5 hours. The other button programs the light to customize its behavior. You can use it to set the order of the primary switch sequence to go from low to high instead, as well as swap between momentary and constant for the tail switch. There’s also an emergency mode that blinks at three to four times per second in medium output to use the light for signaling. Additionally, a tricolored LED fuel gauge provides four levels of battery status.

The Stiletto Pro II’s tapered housing is anodized aluminum, rated IPX7 for immersion in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. The pocket clip is melonited spring steel and can be configured for head up or down carry.

Pros:

• Excellent quality light delivered downrange, even compared to others with higher specs
• No time limit on high mode, though it’ll eventually automatically ratchet down output if the light overheats
• Great ergonomics for tactical or utility use
• Built like a tank, as you’d expect from SureFire

Cons:

• Pocket clip a bit on the tight side
• Business end gets a bit chunky in size

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• Best Flashlights For Tracking Man and Beast
• How to Install a Hardwired Maglite ML150LR Flashlight in Your Truck
• Review: Cloud Defensive MCH Flashlights
• EDC Flashlight Review

Check out our other publications on the web: Recoil | Gun Digest | Blade | RecoilTV | RECOILtv (YouTube)

Editor’s Note: This article has been modified from its original version for the web.

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