Military surplus boots are built to withstand rough terrain, bad weather, and long hours on foot—so they can be a great choice for hiking, hunting, or preparedness. But a common question people ask is: Are military boots actually comfortable to wear? The quick answer: they can be, but you will likely need to break them in first. What to Expect from Military Surplus Boots Military boots are designed for function. They’re tough, durable, and made to support your feet under heavy loads, …

Military surplus stores are treasure troves of gear—everything from vintage field jackets to modern tactical equipment. And yes, in most cases, buying and owning this gear is completely legal. However, there are a few important exceptions to keep in mind to ensure you’re not unintentionally breaking the law. How Is Military Surplus Legal for Civilians to Buy? When the military no longer needs certain equipment—whether due to overproduction, outdated standards, or the end of a c …

One of the unique aspects about military surplus gear is that each item may show different wear. All of the “Used Surplus” were once issued and some had long deployments where others may have been turned in with little or no use.  This is all based on the soldier's job known as MOS (Military Occupational Specialty) or if they had extra gear etc. Understanding different military surplus conditions—or grades—is key to making an informed purchase. In this guide, we&rsqu …

Shopping for military surplus can be exciting and lots of fun. Not only do you have the chance to find quality gear at low prices, but also to find cool vintage gear from our nation’s history. However, with so many options, and differences buying military surplus we know it can also be a bit overwhelming at first If you’re ready to dive in but aren’t sure where to start, this guide will walk you through what you need to know to find genuine gear and make smart purchases. What i …

Improved Modular Sleeping System (IMSS) Review In 1998, the US Military introduced their Modular Sleeping System (MSS). The system consisted of three key parts that could be used separately or together depending on the temperature conditions. Even though it was bulky, the MSS was (and still is) really popular with civilians. The MSS remained unchanged until 2007, when the Military updated it to the Improved Modular Sleeping Bag System (IMSS). Components of the IMSS Just like the MSS, the IMSS c …

How to Stay Truly Warm in Your Sleeping Bag You went out and bought the warmest sleeping bag you could find, expecting it would keep you warm in cold temperatures. Yet, you still ended up freezing through the night. It might not be the sleeping bag which is at fault but rather how you used it. Here’s what you need to know to truly stay warm in a sleeping bag. First, Check the Comfort Rating Most good sleeping bags will list their temperature rating. However, the rating you see is usually …

Survival Items Every Driver Should Have in Their Vehicle for Winter You hopefully already have emergency essentials in your vehicle, such as jumper cables, a first aid kit, roadside reflectors, and basic repair items. But, when winter comes around, you’ll need to update your vehicle emergency kit to include these items for cold weather survival. 1. Winter-Proof Water Water is one of the most important survival items to have, but it can easily freeze in your vehicle in winter conditions. To …

Ways To Use a Military Dry Bags AS A PACK LINER A dry bag is a must-have for any outdoor adventurer. A pack liner is a specialized type of dry bag that attaches to the outside of a backpack or gym bag, allowing you to easily transport gear that needs to stay dry. Packlines are perfect for hiking, kayaking, rafting, and other water sports, but can also be used for carrying extra gear on any type of hike or backpacking trip. When choosing a dry sack to be used as a pack liner, look for one that is …

How to Choose the Right Sleeping Bag Temperature for Your Need A sleeping bag doesn’t generate heat on its own. Instead, it works like a thermos, insulating and trapping the warmth your body produces. The effectiveness of this insulation is indicated by the sleeping bag’s temperature rating. Choosing the right sleeping bag isn’t simply about opting for the warmest model available; it’s about finding one that matches the specific conditions you’ll encounter. If you&r …