Tacmed Level 3 Field Trauma Kit Review

The Tacmed Level 3 Field Trauma Kit Made a Bold First Impression

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen my fair share of trauma kits. I’m always looking for reliable, comprehensive solutions for potential emergencies, and the Tacmed Level 3 Field Trauma Kit promised exactly that. This kit, from TacMed Solutions, is designed to provide immediate care in critical situations, packing a lot of essential equipment into a relatively compact package.

My work often takes me to remote locations, from guiding hunting trips in the Rockies to instructing tactical training courses. The need for a robust and portable trauma kit became glaringly apparent after witnessing a colleague’s delayed response to a serious laceration during a remote training exercise. I needed a kit that wasn’t just well-stocked, but also intuitively organized and built to withstand harsh conditions.

Upon unboxing the Tacmed Level 3 Field Trauma Kit, I was immediately impressed by the ruggedness of the bag and the methodical arrangement of the contents. The weight, at just 1.8 lbs, felt manageable, suggesting that it wouldn’t be overly burdensome to carry on extended treks. My initial impression was one of thoughtful design and quality materials.

Compared to similar offerings from North American Rescue and Individual First Aid Kit (IFAK) solutions, the Tacmed Level 3 Field Trauma Kit stood out due to its inclusion of specific items like the RISE Splint and Water-Jel Dressing, indicating a broader scope of potential injuries it could address. While other kits often focus primarily on hemorrhage control, this kit seemed to consider burns and fractures as well. It was this expanded capability, combined with the TacMed Solutions reputation, that ultimately swayed my decision. I was cautiously optimistic.

Real-World Testing: Putting Tacmed Level 3 Field Trauma Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

I put the Tacmed Level 3 Field Trauma Kit through its paces on a recent week-long backcountry fishing trip in Montana. The varied terrain and unpredictable weather offered a realistic testing ground. While thankfully I didn’t have to use it for a major trauma, I did utilize several components for minor injuries and training scenarios.

The kit proved incredibly easy to deploy and access. The clearly labeled compartments made locating specific items quick and efficient, even in low-light conditions. During a simulated training exercise in wet conditions, the water-resistant bag kept the contents dry and functional, a crucial factor for maintaining the efficacy of the medical supplies.

The only slight issue I encountered was the initial stiffness of the SOF Tourniquet packaging. While this is a testament to its protective packaging, it required a bit more effort than expected to open quickly. With practice, this became less of an issue.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use in various outdoor and tactical scenarios, the Tacmed Level 3 Field Trauma Kit has proven to be incredibly durable. The bag has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of tearing or fraying despite being subjected to rough handling and exposure to the elements. The internal compartments remain organized and secure.

Maintenance is simple. Wiping down the exterior of the bag with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The individual components are generally single-use, minimizing the need for extensive cleaning.

Compared to previous IFAKs I’ve used, the Tacmed Level 3 Field Trauma Kit significantly outperforms them in terms of both comprehensiveness and durability. It inspires confidence, knowing that I have a well-equipped and reliable medical resource readily available.

Breaking Down the Features of Tacmed Level 3 Field Trauma Kit

Specifications

The Tacmed Level 3 Field Trauma Kit boasts the following specifications:

• Dimensions: 12.5″H x 12″W x 3.5″D. This compact size allows for easy integration into backpacks or gear bags without taking up excessive space.
• Weight: 1.8lbs. Lightweight design ensures minimal burden during prolonged carry.
• SOF Tourniquet: A critical tool for stopping arterial bleeding in extremities.
• OLAES Hemostatic Bandage: Combines a bandage, pressure applicator, and hemostatic agent to rapidly control bleeding.
• Chest Seal 2PK: Designed to seal open chest wounds, preventing pneumothorax.
• RISE Splint: A moldable splint for immobilizing fractures and sprains.
• TacMed Control Wrap: Elastic wrap bandage for securing dressings and providing compression.
• TacMedMed & Bandaid Pack: Assorted bandages and antiseptic wipes for minor wounds.
• Esmark Bandage: A multipurpose bandage for wrapping and securing injuries.
• Compressed Gauze: Sterile gauze for packing wounds and absorbing blood.
• Water-Jel Dressing: Soothes and protects burn injuries.
• Burn Gel 3.5: Provides cooling relief for burns.
• Trauma Shears: Heavy-duty shears for cutting through clothing and gear to access wounds.
• Survival Blanket: Reflects body heat to prevent hypothermia.
• CPR Face Shield: Protects against the transmission of bodily fluids during CPR.
• 1PR Nitrile Gloves: Provides a barrier against infection.

Performance & Functionality

The Tacmed Level 3 Field Trauma Kit performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The quality of the individual components is evident in their effectiveness and ease of use. The tourniquet is robust and easy to apply, the hemostatic bandage quickly controls bleeding, and the chest seals provide a reliable airtight seal.

The kit’s strength lies in its comprehensive approach to trauma care. It addresses a wide range of potential injuries, from severe bleeding to burns and fractures. The only area for improvement would be the addition of a small instructional card or booklet outlining the proper use of each component, particularly for users with limited medical training.

Overall, the kit meets and exceeds my expectations. It’s a well-designed and thoughtfully curated collection of essential medical supplies.

Design & Ergonomics

The Tacmed Level 3 Field Trauma Kit is designed with user-friendliness in mind. The bag is constructed from durable, water-resistant material and features a well-organized interior with clearly labeled compartments. The weight is manageable, and the size is compact enough for easy carry.

There’s virtually no learning curve associated with using the kit. The intuitive layout and readily accessible components make it easy to find what you need quickly, even under stress.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Tacmed Level 3 Field Trauma Kit is built to last. The rugged construction and high-quality materials ensure that it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Maintenance is minimal, consisting primarily of keeping the bag clean and dry.

Accessories and Customization Options

The kit comes fully equipped with all the essential items listed in the specifications. While there are limited customization options for the kit itself, the modular design allows for the addition of supplemental supplies or specialized equipment as needed. It is compatible with most standard-sized MOLLE pouches.

Pros and Cons of Tacmed Level 3 Field Trauma Kit

Who Should Buy Tacmed Level 3 Field Trauma Kit?

The Tacmed Level 3 Field Trauma Kit is perfect for:

• Outdoor enthusiasts (hikers, campers, hunters, anglers).
• Tactical professionals (law enforcement, military, security personnel).
• Preparedness-minded individuals who prioritize safety and emergency readiness.
• Anyone who spends time in remote locations or engages in activities with a higher risk of injury.

This product may not be necessary for individuals who primarily operate in urban environments with readily available access to emergency medical services.

A must-have accessory would be a basic first aid certification or training course to ensure the user is confident and competent in using the kit’s components effectively.

Conclusion on Tacmed Level 3 Field Trauma Kit

The Tacmed Level 3 Field Trauma Kit is a well-designed, comprehensive, and durable medical kit that provides a valuable resource for managing traumatic injuries in a variety of settings. The price of $214.99 is justified by the quality of the components, the thoughtful organization, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a reliable medical solution readily available.

I would highly recommend this kit to anyone who prioritizes safety and preparedness. It’s an investment in your well-being and could potentially save a life. Don’t wait for an emergency to happen; equip yourself with the Tacmed Level 3 Field Trauma Kit and be prepared for the unexpected.