Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field Review

The Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field Made a Bold First Impression

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless first aid and trauma kits come and go. When I first laid eyes on the Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field, I was intrigued by its compact size and promising contents, especially at its accessible price point. It appeared to offer a thoughtfully curated set of essential medical supplies for addressing common injuries encountered in the wilderness.

My interest in the Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field stemmed from a growing need for a truly portable and comprehensive kit for solo backpacking trips. Many existing kits were either too bulky to comfortably carry or lacked crucial items for managing serious trauma. The Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field seemed to strike a balance between size and functionality that appealed to me.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field’s tidy organization and seemingly robust construction. The kit felt surprisingly lightweight at just 0.6 lbs, and the 10″H x 8.13″W x 3.5″D dimensions made it undeniably packable. The included items, from the RISE Splint to the TacMed Control Wrap, all appeared to be of decent quality, ready for use in a pinch.

I considered other compact trauma kits, like the Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight Medical Kit and the Surviveware Small First Aid Kit. I ultimately chose the Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field because it seemed to prioritize trauma-specific interventions, like bleeding control, which are critical in remote settings. The inclusion of a proper tourniquet alternative, the TacMed Control Wrap, set it apart.

My initial impression of the Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field was one of cautious optimism. The kit seemed well-designed and thoughtfully equipped. I was eager to put it to the test in the field and see if it lived up to its promise as a reliable and effective tool for managing trauma in the backcountry.

Real-World Testing: Putting Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field to the Test

First Use Experience

I recently took the Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field on a three-day solo backpacking trip in the rugged terrain of the Appalachian Mountains. The diverse environment provided ample opportunities to assess the kit’s performance in a variety of realistic scenarios. During my hikes, the lightweight and compact nature of the kit proved invaluable, easily fitting into my backpack without adding unnecessary bulk or weight.

I encountered some rain on the second day of my trip, and I was pleased to find that the kit’s outer material offered some degree of water resistance, protecting the contents from getting soaked. Although I didn’t have to use the kit for any serious emergencies, I practiced deploying the TacMed Control Wrap and familiarized myself with the other components. The tools were generally intuitive to use.

There were no significant issues after the first outing. I did notice that the small packets of Triple Antibiotic Ointment could be easily crushed within the kit, a potential source of mess.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use on various hiking and camping trips, the Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field has proven to be a reliable and durable companion. The outer material has shown no signs of wear and tear, and the contents remain well-organized and easily accessible. I did re-tape the Moleskin to ensure it was more easily removable as the original adhesive stuck to the bag over time.

The kit has held up well to repeated packing and unpacking, and the zippers have continued to function smoothly. The individual components have also maintained their integrity, even after being exposed to varying temperatures and humidity levels. Regular spot cleaning with a damp cloth has been sufficient to keep the kit looking and functioning like new.

Compared to my previous experiences with larger, less specialized first aid kits, the Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field offers a more focused and efficient approach to managing potential injuries in the field. It is more user-friendly than trying to piece together similar components on your own.

Breaking Down the Features of Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field

Specifications

The Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field boasts several key specifications that contribute to its effectiveness as a portable trauma management solution.

  • Dimensions: 10″H x 8.13″W x 3.5″D These compact dimensions make it easy to pack and carry.
  • Weight: 0.6lbs: Its incredibly lightweight design minimizes the burden on hikers and backpackers.
  • RISE Splint: Provides rigid support for stabilizing fractures and sprains.
  • TacMed Control Wrap: A versatile tourniquet alternative for controlling severe bleeding.
  • Moleskin 3″: Offers blister prevention and treatment.
  • Surgical Tape: Secures bandages and dressings.
  • Triple Antibiotic Ointment 0.9g (3x): Helps prevent infection in minor wounds.
  • Trauma Shears: Allows for quick and safe cutting of clothing and gear to access injuries.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the kit’s portability, usability, and overall effectiveness in addressing common injuries encountered in the wilderness. The lightweight design and compact dimensions make it easy to carry without adding unnecessary bulk. The included items are all essential for managing trauma and preventing further complications.

Performance & Functionality

The Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field performs its intended job admirably, providing a well-organized and readily accessible set of tools for managing trauma in the field. The TacMed Control Wrap is easy to deploy and effectively restricts blood flow in the event of severe bleeding. The included RISE Splint offers robust support for stabilizing fractures and sprains, minimizing further injury.

The kit’s main strengths lie in its compact size, lightweight design, and inclusion of essential trauma management tools. A potential weakness might be the limited quantity of certain items, such as the Triple Antibiotic Ointment. Overall, it meets expectations for a basic hiking trauma kit.

Design & Ergonomics

The Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field’s build quality is commendable, with durable materials and sturdy zippers that withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The internal organization is well thought out, with clearly labeled compartments for each item. The kit is surprisingly lightweight, making it comfortable to carry even on long hikes.

The kit is generally user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. The included items are intuitive to use. Familiarizing yourself with the TacMed Control Wrap is recommended.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field is expected to last for several years of regular use. The outer material is resistant to tearing and abrasion. The zippers are durable and reliable.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and periodic replacement of expired items. The individual components are readily available from various online retailers.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field comes with all the necessary items for managing basic trauma. There are no specific customization options offered by Phalanx. Users can customize the kit by adding additional items, such as pain relievers, antihistamines, or specialized medications, to suit their individual needs.

The Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field is compatible with a wide range of commercially available first aid and trauma supplies. The ability to customize the kit with additional items makes it a versatile and adaptable solution for various outdoor activities.

Pros and Cons of Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field

Pros

  • Compact and Lightweight: Easy to pack and carry on hikes and backpacking trips.
  • Comprehensive Contents: Includes essential trauma management tools, such as the TacMed Control Wrap and RISE Splint.
  • Durable Construction: Withstands the rigors of outdoor use.
  • Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for the money.
  • Well-Organized: Easy to access and identify individual items.

Cons

  • Limited Quantity of Some Items: The supply of items like the Triple Antibiotic Ointment is very small.
  • Outer Material Not Fully Waterproof: Can be affected by heavy rain or submersion.


Who Should Buy Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field?

The Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field is perfect for hikers, backpackers, campers, and other outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize preparedness and safety in the wilderness. It’s a valuable addition to any bug-out bag. It is suitable for anyone venturing into remote areas where access to medical care may be limited.

This product may not be suitable for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions that require specialized medications or equipment. Those embarking on extended expeditions or engaging in high-risk activities may require a more comprehensive trauma kit.

A must-have modification is to add more Triple Antibiotic Ointment.

Conclusion on Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field

The Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field is a well-designed and thoughtfully equipped medical kit that offers excellent value for the money. Its compact size, lightweight design, and comprehensive contents make it an ideal choice for hikers, backpackers, and other outdoor enthusiasts who want to be prepared for potential emergencies in the wilderness. While the outer material is not fully waterproof and the quantity of some items is limited, these drawbacks are minor compared to the kit’s overall benefits.

The price is justified, given the quality and quantity of included items, as well as the peace of mind it provides.

I would personally recommend the Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field to anyone seeking a reliable and affordable trauma management solution for outdoor adventures. Invest in your safety and preparedness – add the Phalanx Trauma Kit Hiker Field to your gear list today.


Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top