First Impressions of Wazoo Survival Gear Bandana Tracking Field Kit
The Wazoo Survival Gear Bandana Tracking Field Kit is an intriguing product that promises to blend practical knowledge with everyday carry. From Wazoo Survival Gear, a company known for its innovative survival solutions, this bandana aims to provide crucial tracking information in a readily accessible format. It piqued my interest as someone who spends considerable time in the outdoors and believes in equipping myself with every possible advantage. Would this bandana prove to be a valuable tool, or just another novelty item?
My career has taken me through dense forests, across arid deserts, and even into the urban wilderness, equipping others for the same challenges. Over the years, I’ve developed a knack for identifying tracks, a skill honed through experience and constant learning, but even experts forget. Remembering which track belongs to which critter can be challenging, especially when the adrenaline is pumping in a survival situation.
The bandana arrived in a simple, bulk-packed state. The fabric felt reasonably soft, and the track illustrations appeared clear at first glance. Compared to a dedicated tracking guide, it certainly wins in terms of portability; you can wear this thing. Initial thoughts: It’s a clever idea, but its usefulness hinges on the quality of the illustrations and the durability of the fabric.
I considered other options before choosing the Wazoo Survival Gear Bandana Tracking Field Kit. I thought about laminating a printed tracking guide to protect it from the elements. I also considered carrying a small notebook with track drawings, but those solutions felt cumbersome compared to the simplicity of a bandana. I selected this product because it offered a potentially practical and space-saving way to carry essential tracking information.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The concept is solid, and the execution seems decent so far. The real test will be how well it holds up to use in the field and whether the information is accurate and easily accessible when needed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wazoo Survival Gear Bandana Tracking Field Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test of the Wazoo Survival Gear Bandana Tracking Field Kit took place during a weekend camping trip in the Angeles National Forest. The area is known for its diverse wildlife, providing ample opportunities to spot tracks. I wore the bandana around my neck for easy access, not unlike how I used to wear a shemagh in certain operational theaters.
During a morning hike, I encountered several sets of tracks near a creek bed. The bandana’s illustrations helped me quickly identify deer, raccoon, and what appeared to be coyote tracks. Although I knew these tracks already, I tested myself using only the bandana as a reference.
The damp conditions presented a slight challenge. The bandana, being cotton, became slightly damp and clung to my skin. I found the bandana slightly less easy to use when wet, but still legible.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including a week-long backpacking trip in the Sierra Nevada, the Wazoo Survival Gear Bandana Tracking Field Kit has proven surprisingly durable. The cotton fabric has held up well to repeated washing and wear. The illustrations remain clear and haven’t faded significantly.
I’ve noticed some minor fraying around the edges, which is to be expected with cotton. Regular trimming has prevented it from worsening. The bandana does attract dirt easily, but it is easy to clean.
Comparing it to my previous method of carrying a laminated tracking guide, the bandana is far more convenient. The bandana is always accessible and doesn’t take up valuable pack space. It has served as an adequate impromptu sweat rag, although I don’t recommend that unless absolutely necessary.
Breaking Down the Features of Wazoo Survival Gear Bandana Tracking Field Kit
Specifications
The Wazoo Survival Gear Bandana Tracking Field Kit features a 22″ square bandana made of cotton. It showcases 21 animal tracks printed on one side. The animals chosen are: found across North America, most abundantly found in the wild, easy food sources, and indicators of a water source. The bandana is bulk packed, implying minimal packaging to reduce waste.
These specifications matter because they dictate the bandana’s usability and durability. The size is large enough to be versatile as headwear, neckwear, or a small signal panel. The cotton material offers comfort and breathability, but also means it takes longer to dry than synthetic fabrics.
Performance & Functionality
The Wazoo Survival Gear Bandana Tracking Field Kit performs its primary function – track identification – reasonably well. The illustrations are clear and generally accurate. However, some of the finer details of the tracks are lost due to the limitations of printing on fabric.
A significant strength is its accessibility. The bandana is always available, unlike a book or phone app that might be buried in your pack or have a dead battery. A weakness is its reliance on visual memory; it’s not a comprehensive tracking guide, so you need to already know the basics. It meets basic expectations of identifying common animal tracks.
Design & Ergonomics
The bandana’s design is simple and functional. The cotton material is soft and comfortable against the skin. The weight is negligible, making it easy to carry.
The user-friendliness is excellent. There is no learning curve; simply unfold the bandana and consult the illustrations. A basic understanding of tracking principles is beneficial, but not strictly necessary.
Durability & Maintenance
The cotton fabric is reasonably durable for its intended use. With proper care, the Wazoo Survival Gear Bandana Tracking Field Kit should last for several years of regular use. Washing the bandana with mild soap and air drying is recommended to prevent fading and shrinkage.
Minor tears can be easily repaired with a needle and thread. Avoid using harsh detergents or bleach, as these can damage the fabric and fade the illustrations. The bandana also functions as an adequate pre-filter for water, although doing so will likely require more frequent washing.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Wazoo Survival Gear Bandana Tracking Field Kit doesn’t come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available beyond perhaps adding your own personal markings with a permanent marker. However, the bandana can be used in conjunction with other tracking tools, such as plaster casting kits, for more detailed analysis.
The bandana is compatible with any general-purpose bandana accessories, such as bandana slides or clips. It works well with improvised uses as a bandage or sling in a survival situation. No extra modifications are necessary to begin using the product.
Pros and Cons of Wazoo Survival Gear Bandana Tracking Field Kit
Pros
- Lightweight and compact: Adds almost no weight or bulk to your gear.
- Readily accessible: Can be worn or easily stored for quick reference.
- Clear illustrations: Aids in identifying common animal tracks.
- Versatile: Can be used as a head covering, neck gaiter, or emergency bandage.
- Affordable: Offers good value for its price point.
Cons
- Cotton absorbs moisture and takes longer to dry than synthetic fabrics.
- Illustrations are not as detailed as a dedicated tracking guide.
Who Should Buy Wazoo Survival Gear Bandana Tracking Field Kit?
The Wazoo Survival Gear Bandana Tracking Field Kit is perfect for hikers, campers, nature enthusiasts, and survivalists who want a lightweight and accessible reference for animal tracks. It’s also suitable for educators who want to teach basic tracking skills to children or adults. Anyone venturing into the wilderness would benefit from carrying the Wazoo Survival Gear Bandana Tracking Field Kit.
Those who require a comprehensive tracking guide with detailed information and advanced techniques should skip this product. If you are looking to become an expert tracker, I recommend using a dedicated field guide with high-quality photographs or illustrations. If you plan to operate in arctic environments, avoid this product because the fabric will freeze.
A basic compass and a small notebook for recording observations would be useful additions to complement the bandana. Consider adding a small magnifying glass for closer examination of tracks. A good book on animal tracking will also help expand your knowledge.
Conclusion on Wazoo Survival Gear Bandana Tracking Field Kit
The Wazoo Survival Gear Bandana Tracking Field Kit is a clever and practical tool for anyone who spends time in the outdoors. It offers a lightweight, accessible, and affordable way to carry essential tracking information. While it’s not a substitute for a comprehensive tracking guide, it serves as a valuable quick reference and a versatile piece of gear.
At $17.00, the price is certainly justified. It’s an inexpensive investment that could potentially save you time, effort, or even your life in a survival situation. The Wazoo Survival Gear Bandana Tracking Field Kit is well worth the price.
I would definitely recommend the Wazoo Survival Gear Bandana Tracking Field Kit to anyone looking for a simple and effective way to enhance their tracking skills and situational awareness in the outdoors. Add this handy bandana to your kit today and take your outdoor adventures to the next level!