TACMED 80-0116 LEVEL 2 FIELD TRAUMA KIT Review

The TACMED 80-0116 LEVEL 2 FIELD TRAUMA KIT Made a Bold First Impression

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless trauma kits, from the bare-bones pouches issued in basic training to overstocked medic bags that weigh more than a small child. However, the TACMED 80-0116 LEVEL 2 FIELD TRAUMA KIT from TacMed Solutions immediately struck me as something different: a thoughtfully curated, highly portable, and potentially life-saving piece of kit, designed for real-world emergencies. This isn’t your average “boo-boo” kit; it’s a serious piece of equipment.

My search for a truly portable, comprehensive trauma kit stemmed from years of guiding backcountry trips and witnessing minor mishaps turn potentially serious due to delayed access to proper medical care. I needed something smaller and lighter than my existing advanced aid bag, something I could comfortably carry on my person during hunts, hikes, or even everyday carry without feeling weighed down. I wanted capability without bulk.

Upon receiving the TACMED 80-0116 LEVEL 2 FIELD TRAUMA KIT, my first impression was dominated by its compact size and remarkably light weight. The materials felt durable, and the internal organization, while simple, seemed efficient. It’s immediately clear that space and weight were premium considerations in the design.

Compared to other minimalist trauma kits I’ve used – some from North American Rescue and Rescue Essentials – the TACMED kit seemed to offer a better balance of essential tools without unnecessary bulk. Many competitor kits focus on quantity over quality, cramming in dozens of band-aids and antiseptic wipes while skimping on critical items like hemostatic agents. I chose the TACMED kit because of its inclusion of the OLAES Hemostatic Bandage, a proven tool for controlling severe bleeding.

My initial feeling was one of cautious optimism. The compact size was appealing, but I wondered if it truly contained everything needed to address a serious traumatic injury in the field. This kit’s compact size sparked the question: can something this small deliver big results?

Real-World Testing: Putting TACMED 80-0116 LEVEL 2 FIELD TRAUMA KIT to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the TACMED 80-0116 LEVEL 2 FIELD TRAUMA KIT during a week-long backcountry elk hunt in the rugged mountains of Colorado. The environment was challenging, with steep terrain, unpredictable weather, and limited access to medical assistance. I carried the kit in a small pouch attached to my hunting pack, barely noticing its presence due to its minimal weight and size.

During the hunt, thankfully, I didn’t need to use the kit on myself or a member of my hunting party. However, a fellow hunter in a neighboring camp suffered a deep laceration while field-dressing an elk. This became the unexpected and unplanned first field test of the kit.

The OLAES Hemostatic Bandage proved invaluable in quickly controlling the bleeding, allowing us to stabilize the hunter for evacuation. The included trauma shears made quick work of cutting away clothing around the wound. The nitrile gloves provided essential protection against contamination.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of carrying the TACMED 80-0116 LEVEL 2 FIELD TRAUMA KIT on various outdoor adventures – from hiking and fishing trips to range days – it has held up remarkably well. The kit shows no signs of wear and tear, even after being exposed to dust, moisture, and the occasional bump and scrape. The simple design lends itself to easy cleaning; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes.

Compared to other trauma kits I’ve used in the past, the TACMED kit stands out for its combination of portability, durability, and effectiveness. It’s not the most comprehensive kit on the market, but it provides the essential tools needed to address life-threatening injuries in a compact and reliable package. It has not disappointed, it has exceeded expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of TACMED 80-0116 LEVEL 2 FIELD TRAUMA KIT

Specifications

• Dimensions: 10″H x 8.13″W x 3.5″D. These compact dimensions make the kit incredibly easy to carry.
• Weight: 0.6lbs. Its lightweight design ensures that it doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to your gear.
• Contents: 1x OLAES Hemostatic Bandage. This bandage combines a pressure applicator, gauze, and hemostatic agent to quickly control bleeding.
• Contents: 1x Chest Seal 2PK. These seals are designed to treat open chest wounds and prevent pneumothorax.
• Contents: 1x TacMed Basic Bandaid Pack. This pack provides basic wound care for minor injuries.
• Contents: 1x Trauma Shears. The shears are designed to quickly and safely cut away clothing to access wounds.
• Contents: 1x CPR Face Shield. This shield provides a barrier during CPR to prevent the transmission of disease.
• Contents: 1 PR Nitrile Gloves. The gloves protect against contamination and infection.

These specifications are crucial because they demonstrate the careful selection of components prioritizing rapid intervention and effective treatment of common traumatic injuries encountered in the field. The OLAES Bandage and chest seals are particularly important, as they address two of the leading causes of preventable death in trauma situations: hemorrhage and airway compromise.

Performance & Functionality

The TACMED 80-0116 LEVEL 2 FIELD TRAUMA KIT performs its intended function – providing essential tools for treating traumatic injuries – exceptionally well. The inclusion of the OLAES Hemostatic Bandage is a significant strength, allowing for rapid and effective control of bleeding. The chest seals are easy to apply and provide a reliable seal for open chest wounds. The trauma shears are sharp and durable, easily cutting through clothing and gear.

One potential weakness is the lack of a dedicated tourniquet. While the OLAES Bandage can be used as a pressure bandage, a dedicated tourniquet is often considered the gold standard for controlling severe extremity bleeding.

Overall, the TACMED 80-0116 LEVEL 2 FIELD TRAUMA KIT meets and exceeds expectations for a minimalist trauma kit. It provides a well-curated selection of essential tools in a compact and reliable package.

Design & Ergonomics

The TACMED 80-0116 LEVEL 2 FIELD TRAUMA KIT features a simple and functional design. The materials are durable and lightweight, and the internal organization allows for quick and easy access to the contents. The kit is comfortable to carry, even when fully loaded.

The overall build quality is excellent. TacMed Solutions is known for producing high-quality medical equipment, and the TACMED 80-0116 LEVEL 2 FIELD TRAUMA KIT is no exception.

Durability & Maintenance

The TACMED 80-0116 LEVEL 2 FIELD TRAUMA KIT is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The materials are durable and water-resistant, and the kit is easy to clean and maintain. With proper care, it should last for many years.

The components within the kit have expiration dates. Ensure proper tracking and replacement of expired items.

Accessories and Customization Options

The TACMED 80-0116 LEVEL 2 FIELD TRAUMA KIT does not come with many accessories. However, it can easily be customized to meet individual needs.

Many users may choose to add a dedicated tourniquet, such as a CAT or SOFTT-W, to the kit. Other potential additions include a nasal airway, more advanced wound dressings, and pain medication (where legally permissible). The ability to add components makes the TACMED 80-0116 LEVEL 2 FIELD TRAUMA KIT adaptable to diverse needs and training levels.

Pros and Cons of TACMED 80-0116 LEVEL 2 FIELD TRAUMA KIT

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Who Should Buy TACMED 80-0116 LEVEL 2 FIELD TRAUMA KIT?

The TACMED 80-0116 LEVEL 2 FIELD TRAUMA KIT is perfect for:

• Hunters and anglers who venture into remote areas.
• Hikers and backpackers seeking a lightweight and reliable trauma kit.
• Outdoor enthusiasts participating in activities with a risk of injury.
• Law enforcement officers and security personnel.
• Prepared citizens who want to be ready for emergencies.

This product may not be suitable for individuals who require a more comprehensive trauma kit or those who lack basic first aid training. Users should familiarize themselves with the proper use of each component before relying on the kit in an emergency.

A must-have accessory for this kit is a dedicated tourniquet and formal training.

Conclusion on TACMED 80-0116 LEVEL 2 FIELD TRAUMA KIT

The TACMED 80-0116 LEVEL 2 FIELD TRAUMA KIT is a well-designed and thoughtfully curated trauma kit that provides essential tools for treating life-threatening injuries in a compact and reliable package. At $119.99, the price is justified given the quality of the components and the potential for this kit to save a life.

I would personally recommend the TACMED 80-0116 LEVEL 2 FIELD TRAUMA KIT to anyone who spends time in the outdoors or who wants to be prepared for emergencies. While it’s not a substitute for professional medical care, it can provide a crucial bridge until help arrives. Invest in your safety and peace of mind. Grab a TACMED 80-0116 LEVEL 2 FIELD TRAUMA KIT today, learn how to use it, and be ready to respond.

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