Like many of us, I have multiple Individual First Aid Kits (IFAKS) stashed in vehicles, go bags, range bags, the house and even my briefcase at the office. Though I have never had to use one in a life threatening emergency (I last used one in India to bandage a sliced toe) I want to always have one readily available. I am also always looking at new kits, or piecing together individual pieces into a new kit. So I was excited when DTLGear offered to send SpotterUp a few kits to test out.
DTLGear’s Outdoorsman First Aid Kit was previously reviewed here. This, their Bleeding Control Kit (IFAK) was designed by an EMT as were their other IFAKs. The Bleeding Control Kit is DTLGear’s base model IFAK and retails for $79.95.
According to DTLGear their IFAKs are better because:
- Designed by an EMT/Sportsman
- Includes only high quality items
- Usable by one person on themselves
- Lightweight & compact
The Bleeding Control Kit contains:
- 1x SWAT-T
- 1x Choice of compressed gauze roll or QuickClot gauze
- 2x Chest Seals with one-way valves
- 1x 4″ compression bandage for moderate bleeding situations
- 1x Tourniquet marking sticks for use with all complexions
- 1x 5.5” EMT Shears/scissors
- 1x CPR Mask with one-way valve
- 2x Extra thick heavy duty nitrile gloves – Medium
- 2x Extra thick heavy duty nitrile gloves – Extra Large
- 2x Purell hand sanitizing wipes
- 1x Mylar emergency blanket
While the basic Bleeding Control Kit comes with a SWAT-T, you can upgrade it to a SOFT-T, and/or add an extra tourniquet of either type. You can also add QuickClot as an upgrade instead of the compressed gauze. The kit comes in a well-made heavy duty nylon pouch with a carry handle and MOLLE straps (you can also order it in a hard plastic shell) in either red or black.
This kit is a good start on an IFAK for basic bleeding control. If you’ve never owned an IFAK, you can build on this platform. I would definitely upgrade to the SOFT-T and add a CAT tourniquet so that I have two options. I would also add QuickClot and Celox and more gauze for wound packing.
For basic first aid I would add some bandages (including butterfly strips) and some antibiotic creams for use in smaller first aid incidents.
Blood loss is a major cause of death in traumatic accidents. Having a kit is key, especially if you are an outdoorsman, shooter, or fisherman. Learning how to use your kit though is critical. Take a class (or more), have a plan, and make any kit you buy your own. In the heat of an emergency is the wrong time to start figuring out where things are and how to use them.
I received this product as a courtesy from the manufacturer via Spotter Up so I could test it and give my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give this product a good review. All opinions are my own and are based off my personal experience with the product.
*The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the original authors and contributors. These views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of Spotter Up Magazine, the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.