We went to the shooting range and it was cold man! If I hadn’t donned my layers and fleece jacket it would have been worse. Our task for the day was to zero some new rifles. I was glad I brought more than one pair of gloves because my favorite pair finally expired. Right? Isn’t that how gear seems to go? It fails to work at a critical time when you need it?

They were purchased in Chicago, about 13 years ago on vacation, and I loved them the moment I tried them on. A good buddy of mine returned from the military and made his home in Illinois.

During a really cold evening we ended up hitting a shop in the Gold Coast. I tried a few pair on and selected a good fitted pair in black, with a light wool liner inside them, almost as if they were custom tailored for me. I paid for quality and I’m happy I did.

I’m surprised they lasted as long as they did, for shooting, grabbing, cold weather. The leather got softer, the shape molded more to the contour of my hand but the stitching wore out, and it would cost more than I wanted to pay to fix them. I originally paid $70.00 dollars.

I stretched out their use and it’s time to retire them and use something new. The weather got warmer as the day moved on, and we dressed down lighter. Not necessary anymore to use gloves.

But I think it’s prudent to carry a spare of many items. Another set of gloves, or an extra flashlight, or shooting glasses because I know in time that the things we rely on will fail.

A team-mate forgets a tool or hard-shell ear pro. It’s good to lend them out and the favor is returned. The weather wasn’t too unbearable, seeing as I had some protection on me, but I thought to myself, “What if we were in a real disaster situation? If something failed on me what would I be left with?”

I’d be left with Nothing.

Today we were in a controlled environment, but disasters do happen. Same time last year we had an earthquake. This year nothing happened. Those things can’t be predicted very well. Team-mates, family or friends might not be with you when a disaster hits and you cannot rely on them being there to help every time. It’s best if you have the tools on hand that you need in order to get back to where they can link-up with you.

Be prepared and if you can afford to buy quality, then do so. If you can afford to buy doubles of something, then do so. You may not be able to get home to get to the equipment you need. Having an extra set of valuable gear is wise. You don’t need to double up on everything, but a few choice items are good to have on hand. Throw them in your tough box if you have space in the back of your truck, minivan or SUV. Or put them in your glove box. I carry a few of these items in my Get-Home Bag, my vehicle, my glove box and keep some items in my locker.

Here are some of my recommendations.

• Knife
• Pistol.
• Flashlight
• Small Tool Box with tools
• Maps
• Leatherman
• Polypro Shirt
• Light Jacket
• Nutritional Snacks
• Hat/Cap
• Gloves
• Durable Trousers
• Socks
• Toothbrush, Soap, Towel
• Water
• Lighter
• 50 feet of rope