Esee Pinch Survival Kit Review

First Impressions of Esee Pinch Survival Kit

The Esee Pinch Survival Kit is a compact, all-in-one solution designed for emergency situations when size and weight are critical. Marketed by Esee, a company known for its rugged and reliable knives, this kit promises essential survival tools in a minimalist package. This initial impression is that it’s a last-ditch, life-saving option, not a primary survival system.

I was seeking a backup survival kit that could fit in a pocket or small pack, something I could rely on if my primary gear was lost or compromised. The Esee Pinch Survival Kit appealed to me due to its reputation for quality and the promise of essential tools without unnecessary bulk.

Upon unboxing, the Esee Pinch Survival Kit feels robust, if small. The metal tin is sturdy and the knife, despite its size, feels solid in hand. The kit’s contents are neatly organized, conveying a sense of thoughtful design and attention to detail.

Compared to larger survival kits, like the Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight series, the Esee Pinch Survival Kit is significantly smaller and lighter. While those kits offer more comprehensive medical supplies, the Esee Pinch Survival Kit focuses on core survival tools in a highly portable format. I chose the Esee Pinch Survival Kit for its balance of essential tools and extreme portability, favoring it over larger, more comprehensive, but less convenient options.

My initial impression was positive; I was excited to test its capabilities in a real-world environment. The kit seemed well-made and thoughtfully designed.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Esee Pinch Survival Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Esee Pinch Survival Kit during a weekend backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The trip involved hiking through varied terrain, including dense forests and rocky ridges, providing a range of conditions to evaluate the kit’s performance. The conditions were initially dry, but a sudden thunderstorm brought heavy rain, testing the water resistance and overall utility of the kit.

The Pinch knife proved surprisingly effective for basic tasks like preparing tinder and cutting cordage. The RAT signal mirror worked well for signaling during clear periods. The button compass, while small, provided a reliable bearing for navigation.

The small size required a bit of dexterity to use the fishing kit effectively. The sewing needle, although tiny, proved valuable for repairing a ripped pack strap. No major issues arose, although the small size of the knife and compass required careful handling to avoid loss.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of occasional use, the Esee Pinch Survival Kit continues to hold up well. The 1095 carbon steel blade shows no signs of chipping or significant wear, despite repeated use. The finish has started to patina, adding to the knife’s character.

The metal tin has a few minor dents and scratches, but it still closes securely and keeps the contents protected. The kit’s individual components remain in good working order, demonstrating the quality of materials and construction. Regular cleaning and light oiling of the knife blade have prevented rust.

Compared to a previous experience with a cheaper survival kit that quickly fell apart, the Esee Pinch Survival Kit has significantly outperformed my expectations. Its durability and reliability provide confidence in its ability to perform when needed.

Breaking Down the Features of Esee Pinch Survival Kit

Specifications

• The Esee Pinch Survival Kit includes a 3-inch overall Pinch knife with a 1.5-inch blade. This compact size makes it extremely portable, but also limits its utility for larger tasks.
• The blade is constructed from black stonewash finish 1095 carbon steel, known for its excellent edge retention and ease of sharpening. However, 1095 carbon steel is susceptible to rust if not properly maintained.
• The kit includes a RAT signal mirror for visual signaling. The mirror is small but effective for reflecting sunlight over long distances.
• A basic fishing kit is provided, consisting of line, hooks, and weights. This is a valuable addition for procuring food in a survival situation.
• A rescue whistle is included for audible signaling. It is a high-pitched whistle with good range.
• A button compass offers basic navigational assistance. Its small size makes it less precise than a larger compass.
• Kevlar cord is included for various uses, such as shelter building and gear repair. Kevlar is known for its high strength-to-weight ratio.
• A sewing needle is provided for repairing clothing and gear. Its small size makes it suitable for minor repairs.
• A fire starter kit allows for creating fire in challenging conditions. This is a crucial element for warmth, cooking, and signaling.
• A water collection bag provides a means of gathering rainwater or dew. This is essential for hydration in a survival scenario.
• The kit is housed in a metal storage tin, protecting the contents from damage and moisture. The tin is compact and durable, but not fully waterproof.
• The Esee Pinch Survival Kit weighs in at just 0.32 lb. This extremely light weight makes it easy to carry in a pocket or pack without adding significant burden.

These specifications highlight the kit’s focus on portability and essential tools. Each item has been carefully selected to provide maximum utility in a minimalist package.

Performance & Functionality

The Esee Pinch Survival Kit performs admirably for its intended purpose. The Pinch knife, though small, is surprisingly effective for tasks such as feathering sticks and preparing tinder. The 1095 carbon steel blade holds an edge well and is easy to sharpen.

The signal mirror is effective for long-distance signaling in clear conditions. The fishing kit, while basic, provides the means to catch small fish for sustenance. The rescue whistle is loud and easily audible over considerable distances.

The button compass provides a basic sense of direction, but its accuracy is limited compared to a full-sized compass. The fire starter kit consistently produces a reliable spark, even in damp conditions. The water collection bag, while small, can be used to gather enough water for basic hydration.

The kit’s primary weakness is the small size of the knife and compass, which limits their functionality for larger tasks or precise navigation. Overall, the Esee Pinch Survival Kit meets and even exceeds expectations for a minimalist survival kit.

Design & Ergonomics

The Esee Pinch Survival Kit is thoughtfully designed for portability and ease of use. The metal tin is compact and durable, providing excellent protection for the contents. The kit’s components are neatly organized, making it easy to locate and access the required tool.

The Pinch knife features a simple, ergonomic design that fits comfortably in the hand, despite its small size. The black stonewash finish provides a good grip, even in wet conditions. There is no significant learning curve to using the kit’s components, making it accessible to users of all skill levels.

Durability & Maintenance

The Esee Pinch Survival Kit is built to last, thanks to the high-quality materials used in its construction. The 1095 carbon steel blade is known for its durability and edge retention. The metal tin is sturdy and provides excellent protection for the contents.

The kit is relatively easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning and oiling of the knife blade to prevent rust. The other components require minimal maintenance. With proper care, the Esee Pinch Survival Kit should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Esee Pinch Survival Kit comes with all the accessories needed for basic survival tasks. There are limited customization options available for the kit itself, as it is designed to be a self-contained unit.

However, users can add additional items to the tin, such as medication, water purification tablets, or extra cordage. The kit is compatible with various small, lightweight accessories from other brands, allowing users to personalize it to their specific needs.

Pros and Cons of Esee Pinch Survival Kit

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Who Should Buy Esee Pinch Survival Kit?

The Esee Pinch Survival Kit is perfect for backpackers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize portability and weight savings. It is also an excellent choice for survivalists seeking a backup kit to supplement their primary gear. Anyone venturing into the outdoors where space is at a premium and a survival situation is a possibility would benefit from owning this kit.

This product might not be ideal for individuals who require more comprehensive survival tools or those who prefer larger, more robust knives. People venturing into extremely remote locations might need a more extensive kit.

A must-have modification would be adding a small ferro rod striker to the kit, as striking the spine of the knife against the included ferro rod can be difficult.

Conclusion on Esee Pinch Survival Kit

The Esee Pinch Survival Kit is a well-designed and executed minimalist survival kit that prioritizes portability and essential tools. The high-quality materials and durable construction ensure reliability in demanding conditions. While the small size of the knife and compass limits their functionality, the kit as a whole provides excellent value for its price.

The price is justified given the quality of the components and the peace of mind it provides knowing you have essential survival tools readily available. I would personally recommend the Esee Pinch Survival Kit to anyone seeking a compact and reliable backup survival solution.

Add the Esee Pinch Survival Kit to your pack or pocket today, and gain the confidence of knowing you’re prepared for the unexpected.