Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2 Review

The Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2 Made a Bold First Impression

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade in the field, I’ve seen countless first aid kits, from the bare-bones to the over-engineered. But the Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2 from Phalanx immediately caught my eye with its practical design and focus on essential, life-saving equipment. Its compact size and comprehensive contents promised a blend of portability and capability that I was eager to explore.

For years, I’ve cobbled together my own trauma kits, piecing together components from various sources, never quite satisfied with the bulkiness or the lack of a truly streamlined solution. The Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2 offered the promise of a pre-packaged, professionally curated kit that addressed my specific needs for a lightweight, readily accessible solution for serious injuries in the field.

Upon unboxing, the Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2 made a strong first impression. The kit felt robust and well-organized. At just 0.8lbs and with dimensions of 10″H x 8.13″W x 3.5″D, it was noticeably lighter and more compact than my existing setup. The components were neatly arranged and easily identifiable, suggesting a thoughtful approach to accessibility under pressure.

I considered several other kits, including offerings from North American Rescue and individual components from various vendors. However, the Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2 struck a sweet spot between comprehensive functionality and portability, all at a price point of $84.99 that felt justified by the quality of the components.

My initial reaction was overwhelmingly positive. I was excited to see if the Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2 could live up to its potential as a reliable and effective tool in demanding environments. The kit showed promise of finally fulfilling my need for a compact, readily deployable trauma solution, streamlining my preparedness for any outdoor event.

Real-World Testing: Putting Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test of the Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2 took place during a multi-day backcountry hiking and camping trip in the unforgiving terrain of the White Mountains of New Hampshire. I kept the kit readily accessible in my pack’s outer compartment, simulating a real-world emergency scenario.

The weather conditions were mixed, ranging from dry and sunny to damp and drizzly. Accessing the kit in both conditions proved easy, and the clearly labeled components were quickly identifiable, even with wet hands. The trauma shears were particularly useful for quickly cutting through layers of clothing.

The kit required virtually no familiarization. The individual components were standard medical supplies, and the intuitive organization of the kit allowed for rapid deployment of the necessary items. I did practice using the SOF Tourniquet before heading into the field, reinforcing my familiarity with its application.

My first experience with the Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2 revealed a well-thought-out and efficiently packaged solution. Its portability, ease of access, and quality components instilled confidence in its ability to perform when needed most. There were no initial surprises, and I was eager to test its durability during prolonged use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of repeated use on various outdoor adventures, the Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2 has consistently proven its durability and reliability. I’ve used it during hunting trips, range days, and even kept it in my truck for everyday emergencies.

Despite frequent handling and exposure to the elements, the kit’s outer material shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The internal elastic straps have retained their elasticity, keeping the components securely in place.

Maintenance is simple. I periodically inspect the kit to ensure the components are still sealed and unexpired. I’ve only needed to wipe down the outer pouch with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. The rugged construction and quality materials of the Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2 have impressed me.

Compared to my previous cobbled-together kits, the Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2 is a clear winner. Its compact size, lightweight design, and durable construction make it far more practical and reliable in the field. It’s a significant upgrade that has simplified my emergency preparedness.

Breaking Down the Features of Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2

Specifications

The Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2 boasts a range of specifications tailored for immediate trauma care. Here’s a closer look at what makes it stand out:

  • Dimensions: 10″H x 8.13″W x 3.5″D. Its compact size allows easy integration into a backpack, vehicle, or gear bag.
  • Weight: 0.8lbs. The kit is lightweight for minimal burden on the user during transport and deployment.
  • SOF Tourniquet: One included for rapid control of severe extremity bleeding. It is a crucial component for preventing exsanguination.
  • Chest Seal 2PK: Includes two chest seals for managing penetrating chest wounds. These are vital for preventing pneumothorax.
  • Esmark Bandage: One bandage included for compression and wound wrapping. The bandage provides direct pressure and promotes clotting.
  • Compressed Gauze: One pack of compressed gauze for wound packing. It is effective in absorbing blood and facilitating coagulation.
  • Trauma Shears: One pair of trauma shears for quickly cutting through clothing. Quick access to wounds is a must.
  • CPR Face Shield: One CPR face shield included for safe rescue breathing. It minimizes the risk of cross-contamination during CPR.
  • 1PR Nitrile Gloves: One pair of nitrile gloves for maintaining hygiene and preventing infection. Personal protection is vital when administering first aid.

These specifications contribute directly to the kit’s overall effectiveness. They ensure that critical tools are readily available and easily deployable in high-stress situations, which is critical for saving lives.

Performance & Functionality

The Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2 performs its intended function exceptionally well. Its components are thoughtfully selected and organized for rapid deployment in critical situations:

The SOF Tourniquet is easily applied and effectively restricts blood flow. This is crucial for controlling severe extremity bleeding. The chest seals are simple to use and provide a reliable seal for penetrating chest wounds, a vital component of this kit.

One potential area for improvement might be the inclusion of a small instructional card for each component. While experienced users will know how to use everything, it could be beneficial for those with less training. Otherwise, I’ve found it meets and exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2 excels in design and ergonomics. The kit is constructed from durable, weather-resistant materials, ensuring its longevity and reliability in harsh conditions.

Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry and deploy. The components are logically arranged and clearly labeled, allowing for quick identification and access under stress. It is a user-friendly kit, with no significant learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2 is built to last. The materials are high-quality, and the construction is robust.

The kit is easy to maintain. Routine inspections to check for expired components and occasional cleaning of the outer pouch are all that is required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2 comes with all the essential components for immediate trauma care. However, there are a few accessories or customization options that users might consider:

Consider adding a small flashlight to improve visibility in low-light conditions. A marker can be used to write the time of tourniquet application.

While the Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2 is a standalone solution, it can be complemented by other first aid items or integrated into a larger medical kit, depending on the user’s specific needs.

Pros and Cons of Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2

Pros

  • Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry and integrate into existing gear.
  • Comprehensive: Contains essential life-saving equipment.
  • Durable Construction: Built to withstand harsh conditions.
  • Ease of Use: Components are logically arranged and clearly labeled.
  • Affordable Price: Excellent value for the quality and contents.

Cons

  • Small Instructional Card Missing: Novice users might benefit from brief component instructions.
  • Limited Customization: Not designed for extensive modification.


Who Should Buy Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2?

The Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2 is perfect for:

  • Outdoor enthusiasts (hikers, campers, hunters, fishermen) who venture into remote areas.
  • Tactical professionals (law enforcement, military personnel, security contractors) who face potential high-risk situations.
  • First responders and CERT members who need a compact and reliable trauma kit.
  • Anyone who wants to be prepared for emergencies, whether at home, in the car, or on the go.

This kit may not be the best choice for:

  • Those who require a highly specialized or extensively customizable trauma kit.
  • Individuals with no basic first aid or trauma care training.
  • Users who prefer a larger, more comprehensive medical kit.

A must-have addition would be a first aid/CPR certification. Hands-on training can improve a user’s effectiveness in an emergency.

Conclusion on Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2

The Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2 is a well-designed, thoughtfully curated trauma kit that delivers on its promise of portability, reliability, and effectiveness. Its compact size, comprehensive contents, and durable construction make it an invaluable addition to any outdoor or tactical gear setup.

At $84.99, the Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2 offers excellent value for the money. The quality of the components and the overall design justify the price.

I would absolutely recommend the Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2 to anyone looking for a compact, reliable, and effective trauma solution. It’s a smart investment in your personal safety and preparedness.

Don’t wait for an emergency to strike. Invest in the Phalanx Field Trauma Kit Level 2 today and gain the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re prepared for the unexpected.


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