Let’s Talk About Major Surplus Emergency Blanket
The Major Surplus Emergency Blanket is a budget-friendly piece of survival gear promising warmth and protection in unforeseen circumstances. This isn’t your high-tech, multi-layered, name-brand blanket, but rather a straightforward, compact option designed for emergency preparedness. It comes from Major Surplus, a company known for offering affordable, no-frills equipment to meet basic needs. I needed a few lightweight, packable blankets to throw in my various emergency kits – one in the car, one in my hiking pack, and a couple to keep at home. I wanted something cheap, effective, and small enough to not take up valuable space, and I figured the Major Surplus Emergency Blanket fit the bill.
Before landing on this, I looked at a couple of other options. I considered the Grabber Outdoors Original Space Brand Emergency Blanket, a similar option, but ultimately decided to try the Major Surplus Emergency Blanket due to its lower price point. The SOL Emergency Blanket was another contender, but its larger size and higher cost weren’t necessary for my intended use. Upon unboxing, I wasn’t expecting luxury, and that’s exactly what I got.
The blanket felt thin and crinkly, typical of this type of product, and I was neither excited nor disappointed. It felt like a basic tool, ready to serve a purpose, nothing more, nothing less. My initial thought was, “Will this thing even work?”
Real-World Testing: Putting Major Surplus Emergency Blanket to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Major Surplus Emergency Blanket on a cool evening during a camping trip in the local mountains. The temperature dipped to around 50 degrees Fahrenheit, and a light breeze was blowing. I wrapped the blanket around myself to see how effectively it retained heat.
It immediately trapped some of my body heat, providing a noticeable boost in warmth, though the thin material did little to block the wind. The blanket definitely helped, but I knew it was only a supplementary layer rather than a standalone solution for a serious cold snap.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months, including a few more camping trips and keeping one in my car’s emergency kit, the Major Surplus Emergency Blanket has held up surprisingly well. There are a few minor creases and crinkles from being folded and unfolded, but no rips or tears. The blanket isn’t designed for rugged use, so I haven’t subjected it to harsh conditions beyond normal handling.
Cleaning is simple; I wiped it down with a damp cloth after each use, and it dried quickly. Compared to the more expensive blankets I’ve used in the past, the Major Surplus Emergency Blanket gets the job done adequately, but it’s clear that durability is not its primary strength. This is what I expected, given the price.
Breaking Down the Features of Major Surplus Emergency Blanket
Specifications
- The Major Surplus Emergency Blanket is manufactured by Major Surplus. Its width measures 84 inches, and its length is 36 inches.
- This compact blanket weighs only 0.15 lb, making it lightweight and easily portable.
These specifications underscore the blanket’s primary design purpose: convenient emergency use. The large surface area allows it to wrap around an adult, providing coverage, while its minimal weight ensures it won’t burden a backpack or emergency kit. The lightweight nature of the blanket is perfect for bug-out bags.
Performance & Functionality
The Major Surplus Emergency Blanket performs adequately for its intended purpose: retaining body heat in emergency situations. It’s not designed to replace a sleeping bag or a heavy-duty winter coat. It supplements existing layers by reflecting back radiant heat, providing a noticeable, though not extreme, boost in warmth.
Its main strength is its packability and affordability, making it an easy addition to any emergency kit. The thin material means it does little to block wind or moisture, so it’s best used in conjunction with other protective gear.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is what you’d expect for the price: thin, metallic-coated plastic. It’s not luxurious, but functional.
It’s simple to use right out of the package, no learning curve needed. Just unfold and wrap around the person needing warmth.
Durability & Maintenance
The Major Surplus Emergency Blanket isn’t built for heavy use or long-term durability. Expect it to last for a few uses, but don’t rely on it for extended survival situations.
Maintenance is minimal; just wipe it clean and allow it to dry before storing. Given its low cost, repair isn’t practical; it’s meant to be replaced if damaged.
Accessories and Customization Options
This product comes with no included accessories, and customization is not really an option. This isn’t the type of gear you modify; it’s a simple, standalone solution.
Pros and Cons of Major Surplus Emergency Blanket
Pros
- Extremely Affordable: The Major Surplus Emergency Blanket is one of the most budget-friendly options on the market, making it accessible to everyone.
- Lightweight and Compact: Its minimal weight and small packed size make it easy to include in any emergency kit without adding significant bulk or weight.
- Easy to Use: No special skills or knowledge are needed to use the blanket. Just unfold and wrap around for immediate warmth.
- Decent Heat Retention: While not as effective as higher-end blankets, it provides a noticeable boost in warmth by reflecting body heat.
- Versatile: Can be used for various emergency situations, including camping, hiking, car emergencies, and home preparedness.
Cons
- Low Durability: The thin material is prone to tearing, limiting its lifespan, especially with frequent use.
- Minimal Wind and Moisture Protection: Offers little to no protection against wind or rain, requiring additional layers for complete protection.
Who Should Buy Major Surplus Emergency Blanket?
This Major Surplus Emergency Blanket is perfect for:
- Casual Campers: Ideal for supplementing sleeping bags on cool nights or for emergency warmth.
- Hikers: A lightweight addition to a daypack for unexpected weather changes.
- Car Owners: A must-have in a vehicle emergency kit for roadside assistance situations.
- Survivalists: A basic component in a larger survival kit, providing an immediate source of warmth.
- Budget-Conscious Individuals: Those looking for an affordable way to prepare for emergencies.
Those who should skip this product:
- Individuals needing robust, long-lasting gear for frequent use in harsh conditions.
- Those seeking premium comfort and superior insulation.
Must-have accessories:
- Duct tape for quick repairs.
- A waterproof tarp to provide additional wind and moisture protection.
Conclusion on Major Surplus Emergency Blanket
The Major Surplus Emergency Blanket is a no-frills, budget-friendly option that gets the job done adequately. While it lacks the durability and advanced features of more expensive blankets, its affordability and packability make it a valuable addition to any emergency kit. The price is definitely justified.
I would recommend this blanket to anyone looking for an inexpensive way to prepare for unforeseen circumstances. It’s not a luxury item, but a practical tool that could make a significant difference in an emergency situation. Don’t wait until it’s too late; add a Major Surplus Emergency Blanket to your preparedness kit today!