In-Depth Review of the Survival Kit, Gifts for Men Dad Husband, Emergency Survival Gear and Equipment 19 in 1
If you're looking for a thoughtful, practical, and exciting gift for the adventurous man in your life — be it your father, husband, son, or friend — this 19-in-1 Survival Kit promises to be a hit. Marketed as an all-in-one solution for outdoor emergencies, this kit is ideal for camping, hiking, fishing, hunting, and general outdoor preparedness. With its rugged, compact design and a collection of versatile tools, it certainly has appeal — but how well does it live up to expectations?
In this review, we'll break down the survival kit’s key features, advantages, disadvantages, and answer some frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision.
What’s Inside the Survival Kit?
Let’s begin by looking at what’s included. While variations exist depending on sellers, the standard 19-in-1 kit typically includes:
-
Tactical folding knife
-
Firestarter (magnesium rod + scraper)
-
Emergency thermal blanket
-
Wire saw
-
Multi-tool card
-
Tactical pen (glass breaker)
-
Compass
-
Flashlight (usually LED)
-
Whistle
-
Paracord bracelet with mini compass & firestarter
-
Screwdriver
-
Water bottle buckle
-
Carabiner
-
Fishing gear set (hooks, lines, weights, floats)
-
Credit card knife
-
Small first aid bandages or tools (optional in some versions)
-
Keychain light or secondary mini flashlight
-
Waterproof case
-
User guide or instruction manual (in some kits)
Advantages of the Survival Kit
1. Compact and Portable
The kit comes in a rugged waterproof case that easily fits in a backpack, glove compartment, or even large jacket pocket. It’s lightweight enough for hiking trips but durable enough to withstand rough conditions.
2. Great Value for Money
For a relatively low price, you’re getting 19 individual tools. While not every item is top-tier professional grade, the sheer number of tools and their versatility provide excellent bang for your buck, especially for casual outdoorsmen or hobbyists.
3. Multi-functionality
Most tools offer multiple functions. For example, the paracord bracelet combines a firestarter, compass, whistle, and rope. The multi-tool card includes functions like a can opener, screwdriver, ruler, bottle opener, and wrench — all in the size of a credit card.
4. Versatile Gift Option
This kit is especially well-marketed as a gift — packaged nicely, with a tactical look that appeals to outdoorsy types. It’s an excellent option for:
-
Father’s Day
-
Birthdays
-
Christmas
-
Camping trip send-offs
-
Emergency preparedness starters
5. Includes Fishing Tools
Unlike many kits in this price range, this one includes basic fishing gear (line, hook, sinkers), which can be a lifesaver in true survival situations or a fun feature during recreational outings.
6. Beginner-Friendly
Even if you’re not an outdoor expert, the tools are generally easy to use, and some versions include a basic guide. It’s a great introductory kit for teens or beginners who want to learn survival skills.
Disadvantages of the Survival Kit
1. Not Professional Grade
While functional, many of the tools aren’t meant for long-term heavy-duty use. The knife, flashlight, and multi-tool card work, but they won’t match the quality of more expensive standalone items. Think of them as emergency-use tools, not daily carry gear.
2. No First Aid Supplies
This kit is more focused on tools rather than health. While some versions might include band-aids, it lacks a proper first aid kit, which is essential in most survival scenarios. You'll likely need to buy that separately.
3. Small Components Can Be Fragile
Some users have reported that items like the wire saw, compass, or flashlight feel a bit flimsy or less durable. While they work, they may not withstand repeated or extended use. For example:
-
The compass can sometimes be inaccurate if not properly calibrated.
-
The flashlight may require specific batteries that aren’t included.
4. Limited Instruction
Not all versions of this kit come with an instruction manual, which may be a barrier for beginners. If you're unfamiliar with how to use a firestarter, wire saw, or tactical pen, you might need to look up tutorials online.
5. Redundancy
While more tools might seem better, some items serve similar purposes. For instance, there’s both a paracord bracelet and a whistle, even though the bracelet includes a whistle already. Similarly, there's a card tool and a separate credit card knife.
Who Is This Kit Best For?
-
Casual Campers and Hikers: People who want a just-in-case kit.
-
Gift Seekers: Especially for men who enjoy gadgets or outdoor activities.
-
Teen Scouts and Beginners: Young people starting their journey in survival skills or outdoor adventures.
-
Emergency Car Kit Users: A solid addition to your glove box for road trips.
However, if you are a professional survivalist, military personnel, or experienced outdoorsman, you’ll probably want more reliable, high-end tools.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Is the knife durable?
The knife is foldable and functional, suitable for basic tasks like cutting rope or opening packages. It’s not designed for heavy-duty bushcraft or repeated abuse but is solid for emergencies.
2. Does it come with batteries for the flashlight?
Most versions of the kit do not include batteries. The flashlight usually takes a standard AA or AAA battery, but you’ll need to add your own. This is a small but common oversight.
3. Can the firestarter really light a fire?
Yes, the magnesium rod and scraper combo can produce sparks strong enough to start a fire, provided you have dry tinder and know the technique. It might take a few tries, especially for beginners, but it’s effective.
4. Is this kit TSA-approved?
No. Many items in the kit, such as the knife, firestarter, and tactical pen (which has a sharp point for breaking glass), are not allowed in carry-on luggage. You’ll need to check it in or remove restricted items before flying.
5. What’s the paracord length and strength?
The bracelet’s paracord is usually around 8–10 feet long when unraveled, and can handle about 250–300 lbs of tensile strength — good for basic use like tying gear or making shelter.
6. Can this kit help in a car emergency?
Yes, partially. Tools like the tactical pen (glass breaker), flashlight, whistle, and paracord can be very useful in a roadside emergency. However, you’ll need to add things like a tire inflator, jumper cables, or first aid gear for a complete roadside kit.
Suggestions for Improvement
If you decide to purchase this kit, consider supplementing it with the following:
-
Mini first aid kit (bandages, antiseptic, etc.)
-
Spare batteries
-
Better quality knife (if serious use is expected)
-
Personal medications or survival documents
-
Snacks or energy bars for real emergency preparedness
Final Verdict
The 19-in-1 Survival Kit is an excellent entry-level gear set, especially suited as a gift for men who enjoy camping, hiking, or being prepared for emergencies. It's packed with a variety of tools that cover basic survival scenarios, wrapped up in a compact, attractive, and easy-to-carry package.
Pros:
-
Compact and well-organized
-
Good mix of useful tools
-
Makes a fantastic gift
-
Great value for the price
-
Includes fishing gear and firestarter
Cons:
-
Not professional-grade materials
-
No comprehensive first aid kit
-
Some components are a bit flimsy
-
Batteries often not included
-
No detailed instruction manual
If you're looking for a cool, budget-friendly gadget to inspire adventure and preparedness — whether for a camping trip or just peace of mind — this kit fits the bill. It’s not perfect, but it’s certainly impressive for the price and would make any outdoor enthusiast smile.