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Over the last year, it seems that the terror attacks in Europe have increased. From Oslo to Madrid, organised cells and “Lone Wolfs” have been targeting civilian gathering places.

One of the lessons learned from the attacks in Brussels on 22 March 2016 was that the Tourniquets applied by the Military personnel saved a lot of lives. But the question now is: what if there aren’t any soldiers, LEO’s or first responders nearby? Do you have the equipment and, more importantly, the skills to save your own but also another life?

On one of my IG posts, I asked my followers if they carried any trauma, first aid or medical gear in general on their person and if they tought that it was paranoid if someone did. The consensus: I’ve got a collection of very prepared followers that carry a bunch of kits (from personal EDC kits to full medical kits in their car). What caught my eye was that several noted that they started carrying medical kit after the recent attacks in Europe or that they carried particularly in Europe. It makes you think how much the recent terrorism has influenced our lives.

I’ve been carrying an IFAK (Individual First Aid Kit) of some sort on me for the last 4 years. It has ranged from a single RATS TQ ( who I do not advise anymore because of the conflicting reports) to a full kit in my backpack.

After discussing with and learning from several IG members ( medic_sf, _0_tim_0_ and whiskeydeltagulf to mention a few) and medics, I realised I needed to up my game.

In comes the SFD-Responder by FROG.PRO.

In their own words:

” The SFD-Responder is an unconventional elasticized pouch for carrying the first aid kit designed to ride concealed on your ankle.

The SFD-Responder is an unconventional elasticized pouch for carrying the first aid kit designed to ride concealed on your ankle.”

Let’s take a look at the pouch and afterwards how I’ve set up mine for the moment.

Overview:

Looking at the central part of the pouch, we see the section where you can store your medical equipment. It’s made of a double 4″ elasticized band that has been separated to form 3 smaller pouches. The elastic nature of the band makes sure that you can carry different sized items, as well as comfort in carrying.

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The outer closure flap consists of a laser cut MOLLE system, made of Hypalon® and Cordura®, backed by velcro. Due to the MOLLE system, you can add items with shock cord or MOLLE pouches ( note that they have to be slim) or your gloves. The velcro can be used to add bloodtype or medical patches.

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On the back of the outer closure flap is very powerful velcro that has yet to come loose during movement.

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For the inner flap, they used a 3D Air Mesh fabric that is very comfortable.

The SFD-Responder weights approximately 110g and is available in Black, Tan, Coyote, Ranger Green (Masterrace) and Multicam.

I went for Black, because it’s supposed to be concealed in urban terrain, not camouflaged.

Setup:

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So how have I set up my SFD-Responder? To be honest I’m waiting for a couple of additional medical kit to arrive from the excellent EMT shop. But this is what I have in mine right now:

  • North American Rescue CAT
  • H&H Bandage
  • Seatbelt/clothing cutter
  • Quikclot Advanced clotting sponge
  • examination gloves

How will I set it up in the future:

  • SOFTT-W (CAT will go in my Backpack Kit)
  • H&H Bandage
  • New clothing cutter attached to the MOLLE
  • Quikclot Combat Gauze
  • HYFIN Chest seals (2x)
  • Examination gloves

How do I like it?

I really love this thing! I’ve been carrying the pouch while running with my dog on the beach, during city trips, to the movies, for 3 hour car-rides, to a concert and it has yet to come loose or be noticed!

The folks over at FROG.PRO really did their research concerning materials and construction. I wear the SFD just above my shoes for extra security ( not that it’s needed to be honest) and they stay put.

During really hot days it does get a bit sweaty under the pouch, but not that it’s uncomfortable or that it comes loose.

Even with a full load, the SFD-Responder wasn’t noticeable under my TAD gear trousers. For people who wear skinny jeans ( looking at Europeans and Lucas from TREXARMS) it might be a problem, but under most of my straight cut and boot cut jeans it wasn’t noticable. It prices at $58.95 – $68.95

 

Verdict

If you’re looking for a concealable option to carry your medical kit, look no further! The SFD-Responder by FROG.PRO is a quality product that does what it has to do and then some!

Links:

FROG.PRO SFD-Responder: FROG.PRO , EMTShop

North American Rescue HYFIN: Amazon , EMTShop

North American Rescue CAT: Amazon , EMTShop

Disclaimer:

I bought this product with my own funds, I did not receive or ask for a discount or the product in exchange for a good review. My reviews are truthful and BS free.

“Tom is a Belgian JTAC who loves to go shooting, hiking and drop bombs. In his free time he can be found hiking with his two blondes: his fiancée and his labrador. He started his military carreer in 2006 and before qualifying as a JTAC, he was an Artillery Platoon leader.

He has always had an interest in quality gear and wishes to spread his knowledge and interest to others.”

*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.

 

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