Major Surplus Emergency Bivvy Blanket Review

Let’s Talk About Major Surplus Emergency Bivvy Blanket

The Major Surplus Emergency Bivvy Blanket promises to be a lightweight and affordable solution for emergency shelter needs. At a mere $4.99, and manufactured by Major Surplus, it’s hard to ignore, especially for seasoned outdoorsmen who understand the importance of preparedness. It’s essentially a personal-sized shelter designed to reflect body heat and provide protection from the elements, a concept as old as survival itself.

I first encountered the need for such a product years ago, during a solo winter hike in the Adirondacks. A sudden blizzard forced me to hunker down, and while I had a tent, the sheer speed of the storm made setting it up a perilous task. A lightweight, easily deployable emergency blanket would have been a godsend then.

Upon unboxing, my initial impression of the Major Surplus Emergency Bivvy Blanket was that it was incredibly lightweight. The material feels thin, which is understandable given its intended use and price point.

Compared to heavier, more durable bivy sacks like the SOL Escape Lite Bivvy or the Snugpak Stratosphere, the Major Surplus Emergency Bivvy Blanket trades robustness for packability and affordability. I chose this particular blanket initially because of the rock-bottom price for inclusion in budget-minded survival kits. My initial excitement was tempered by the thinness of the material, but I remained optimistic about its performance in a pinch.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Major Surplus Emergency Bivvy Blanket to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Major Surplus Emergency Bivvy Blanket was during an overnight fishing trip on the Snake River in Idaho. The weather forecast predicted mild conditions, but the high desert is notorious for sudden temperature drops after sunset. I decided to use the blanket as a sleeping bag liner inside my regular sleeping bag, anticipating a drop in temperature overnight.

The blanket proved easy to use, slipping easily inside my sleeping bag. The orange color provided a small amount of additional visibility in the dimly lit campsite. Initially, it added a slight boost to the warmth of my existing bag, but I wouldn’t count on it alone in below-freezing weather.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several more outings, including a rainy day at the shooting range and a damp camping trip, the Major Surplus Emergency Bivvy Blanket showed some signs of wear. The material, while reflective, is prone to tearing along the seams if not handled carefully. Proper care is essential for maintaining its integrity over the long term.

Cleaning is relatively simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Compared to heavier-duty bivies, the Major Surplus Emergency Bivvy Blanket is less robust but also far easier to pack and carry. It’s a trade-off that reflects its primary role as an emergency solution, not a primary shelter.

Breaking Down the Features of Major Surplus Emergency Bivvy Blanket

Specifications

The Major Surplus Emergency Bivvy Blanket boasts a set of specifications tailored to its intended use as a lightweight, packable emergency shelter. It measures 84 inches in width and 36 inches in length. The blanket comes in a bright orange color for high visibility.

• Manufacturer: Major Surplus
• Width: 84 inches
• Length: 36 inches
• Color: Orange
• Weight: 0.15 lb

The weight of a mere 0.15 lbs. is perhaps its most compelling feature. This makes it easy to justify carrying in any pack, regardless of the activity.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Major Surplus Emergency Bivvy Blanket is to provide a reflective barrier against heat loss and protection from wind and rain. While it does offer a degree of warmth retention, it’s essential to understand its limitations. It significantly improves the warmth inside a sleeping bag, or as wind protection.

Its strength is its packability; its weakness lies in its durability. It meets the basic expectations for an emergency blanket, but should not be considered a robust, long-term shelter solution.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Major Surplus Emergency Bivvy Blanket is simple and functional. The bright orange color enhances visibility in emergency situations, which is a crucial design element. The lightweight material makes it easy to pack and carry, but it also compromises its overall durability.

It requires no setup, making it easy to deploy in a hurry. There’s no real learning curve: pull it out of the package and use it.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its thin material, the long-term durability of the Major Surplus Emergency Bivvy Blanket is a concern. Tears and punctures are possible, especially with rough handling. Maintenance is simple; keep it clean and dry.

Repairing tears can be done with duct tape in the field, but such repairs are often temporary. It’s essential to consider it as a potentially expendable item in your kit, and replace as needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Major Surplus Emergency Bivvy Blanket comes as a standalone product, with no included accessories. Customization options are limited, but duct tape can be used to reinforce seams or repair tears. Its simplicity is both a strength and a limitation.

Because of its low cost, it works well as a complement to existing kits and gear from other brands. Adding some cordage to the kit could add rigging options in a survival scenario.

Pros and Cons of Major Surplus Emergency Bivvy Blanket

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Who Should Buy Major Surplus Emergency Bivvy Blanket?

The Major Surplus Emergency Bivvy Blanket is perfect for budget-conscious hikers, preppers assembling basic kits, or anyone needing an inexpensive emergency shelter. It’s ideal as an addition to a car emergency kit or bug-out bag.

Those seeking a more durable and robust shelter for frequent backcountry use should skip this product in favor of heavier, more expensive options. A good sleeping bag should be considered a must-have in colder climates, regardless of the blanket.

Conclusion on Major Surplus Emergency Bivvy Blanket

The Major Surplus Emergency Bivvy Blanket is an incredibly affordable and lightweight option for emergency shelter. While its durability is limited, its packability and low cost make it a worthwhile addition to any basic survival kit. The value proposition is strong, given its price point and potential life-saving benefits in a pinch.

I would recommend this product as a supplemental piece of gear, not as a primary shelter. Keep your expectations realistic, and you won’t be disappointed. For a few dollars, it is a worthwhile investment in peace of mind, ensuring that you have at least some protection should the unexpected occur. Grab one (or several) today!