As an avid outdoorsman and writer, I regularly browse various media for the latest news and products. This week, with the SHOT Show just ending, is especially exciting for firearm enthusiasts. One product that stood out was an Individual First Aid Kit (IFAK) for one-person carry. However, its inadequacy made me question how many outdoorsmen actually carry an IFAK, and if the ones they use are truly effective.

When I first saw the above IFAK, I was intrigued. It was advertised as a personal IFAK kit that could be easily concealed and provide life-saving tools for shooters, CCW carriers and outdoorsmen. Due to its small size — about the size of an iPhone — I wondered how this was possible. Spoiler alert, it cannot. But that didn’t stop hundreds of potential customers from commenting that it’s a great idea or that it is a must have.

No matter who you are, having an IFAK is essential. Many guides I hunt with require it, especially for backcountry trips. A basic First Aid Kit disguised as an IFAK isn’t enough. You need real lifesaving tools for when professional medical help isn’t available. Here’s what I carry:

¯ Tourniquet — a must for stopping severe bleeding.

¯ Israeli Bandage — a nice backup to a tourniquet and can be used where a tourniquet may not fit.

¯ Gauze — lots of gauze to both wrap wounds, but also to pack penetrating wounds.

¯ Trauma Dressings

¯ Emergency Blanket

¯ Medical Shears

¯ Assorted bandages

¯ Gloves

¯ QuickClot

¯ Medical tape

¯ Pain reliever

¯ Gallon plastic bag — doubles as waterproof storage and a potential chest seal.

This may seem like a lot, but it’s actually my bare minimum. For extended trips, I add more supplies and a few extras, all aimed at providing life-saving capability. Whether it’s Timmy’s skinned knee at the park, Sally’s cut at a picnic, or a serious injury where EMS may be hours away, I’m ready. Earlier this season, a hunter died after being shot on a deer drive; first responders said reaching him was delayed by the trail they had to clear.

Of course, it doesn’t matter how much gear you have if you do not know how to use it. Take action now by enrolling in one of the many free or inexpensive Backwoods First Aid courses offered by various groups — some even available online from the comfort of your home. Be sure to choose a course that focuses on trauma, not just common household injuries, to ensure you’re fully prepared.