Let’s Dive into Voodoo Tactical Mil-spec Camper’s Mess Kit
The Voodoo Tactical Mil-spec Camper’s Mess Kit promises a convenient and durable solution for outdoor dining. Marketed as a military-grade option for campers, it boasts a compact design with interlocking pieces for easy cleaning and storage. Having spent years in the field, relying on my gear to perform under pressure, I was eager to see if this mess kit lived up to its “Mil-spec” moniker, or if it was just another piece of brightly colored plastic destined for the landfill.
My need for a reliable mess kit stems from countless excursions where space and weight are paramount. I’ve lugged around heavier, bulkier options and suffered the consequences of flimsy, disposable alternatives. The promise of a durable, compact, and easy-to-clean kit was definitely appealing.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was one of mild disappointment. The plastic felt thin and lightweight, lacking the reassuring heft I associate with truly durable gear. Comparing it to a stainless steel mess kit I’ve used for years and a more robust plastic kit from GSI Outdoors, the Voodoo Tactical option immediately felt less substantial. My first thought was, “This is definitely not what I expected from something labeled ‘Mil-spec’.”
My first impression was definitely one of surprise, but not in a good way. I was immediately skeptical of the “Mil-spec” claim, and it left me wondering if the quality would be up to par. My gut told me to prepare for a letdown.
Real-World Testing: Putting Voodoo Tactical Mil-spec Camper’s Mess Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Voodoo Tactical Mil-spec Camper’s Mess Kit during a weekend camping trip in the Angeles National Forest. The conditions were mild, with daytime temperatures in the 70s and relatively dry air. I used the kit for preparing and eating a simple meal of freeze-dried chili.
The first issue arose immediately upon adding hot water to the chili in the bowl. The plastic began to soften, and I could detect a faint, unpleasant plastic odor. Eating the chili, I noticed a distinct plastic taste, which significantly detracted from the experience.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of sporadic use, primarily for dry foods and cold meals, the kit has shown some signs of wear. The interlocking pieces have become looser, and the “pop-up cup” (which I hesitate to even call a cup) tore after only four uses. This confirms what I suspected about the kit’s overall durability.
Cleaning the kit is relatively easy, but the plastic seems to retain odors, especially after contact with oily foods. Compared to my stainless steel kit, which is virtually indestructible and imparts no taste to food, the Voodoo Tactical Mess Kit falls far short. This simply doesn’t compare favorably to other kits I’ve used in the past.
Breaking Down the Features of Voodoo Tactical Mil-spec Camper’s Mess Kit
Specifications
The Voodoo Tactical Mil-spec Camper’s Mess Kit includes a flat oval-shaped container, a lid that doubles as a bowl, and a lower bowl with an attached handle. It also includes a flimsy cutting board and plastic cutlery (fork, knife, spoon). These components are designed to nest within each other for compact storage.
The entire kit is made of a lightweight, inexpensive plastic, described as “durable” by Voodoo Tactical. While the exact type of plastic is not specified, its performance suggests it’s a low-grade polypropylene or similar material. The advertised durability simply does not live up to scrutiny.
Performance & Functionality
The Voodoo Tactical Mil-spec Camper’s Mess Kit performs adequately for consuming cold foods, but its performance deteriorates rapidly when exposed to heat. The plastic softens and leaches flavor into warm meals, making for an unpleasant dining experience. The overall functionality is hindered by the choice of materials.
The kit’s main strength is its compact and lightweight design, making it easy to pack. However, its weaknesses, including its poor heat resistance and questionable durability, significantly outweigh its benefits. It barely meets expectations, and falls far short of its competitors.
Design & Ergonomics
The kit’s interlocking design is intended to provide a secure and leak-proof seal. In practice, the fit is often uneven, and the two halves of the container are high-centered on both the cup and bowl. This makes the seal unreliable.
The attached handle on the lower bowl is a useful feature for carrying hot foods. However, the thin plastic construction makes the bowl feel flimsy and unstable when filled. This is the single redeeming design element.
Durability & Maintenance
The Voodoo Tactical Mil-spec Camper’s Mess Kit is not built to last. The plastic is prone to scratching and cracking, and the pop-up cup is particularly vulnerable to tearing. This is not a product for long-term use.
Cleaning is easy enough with soap and water, but the plastic’s tendency to retain odors can be problematic. Regular use with oily foods will likely lead to permanent staining and unpleasant smells. Proper maintenance will only prolong the inevitable: the kit’s demise.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Voodoo Tactical Mil-spec Camper’s Mess Kit comes with basic plastic cutlery and a small cutting board. There are no official accessories or customization options available from Voodoo Tactical. The accessories are lackluster.
Due to its generic design, it may be possible to substitute the included cutlery with more durable options. However, the overall design of the kit limits its customization potential. Few if any upgrades will enhance the product’s overall value.
Pros and Cons of Voodoo Tactical Mil-spec Camper’s Mess Kit
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to pack.
- Includes basic cutlery and a cutting board.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Poor heat resistance; plastic softens and imparts taste to food.
- Questionable durability; plastic is prone to scratching and cracking.
- “Mil-spec” designation is misleading.
Who Should Buy Voodoo Tactical Mil-spec Camper’s Mess Kit?
The Voodoo Tactical Mil-spec Camper’s Mess Kit is potentially suitable for casual campers on a very tight budget who prioritize lightweight gear above all else. It might also be appropriate for emergency kits where it will likely never be used, as a means of checking a box. However, users should be aware of its limitations and potential health concerns related to heating food in the plastic.
Anyone who values durability, performance, and a pleasant dining experience should avoid this product. Backpackers, survivalists, and anyone who regularly camps in demanding conditions would be better served by investing in a higher-quality mess kit. A stainless steel or more robust plastic option from a reputable brand is a far wiser choice.
A must-have modification would be to replace the included cutlery with more durable metal utensils. However, this would add to the cost and weight, negating some of the kit’s initial advantages. It’s arguably better to purchase a quality mess kit from the start.
Conclusion on Voodoo Tactical Mil-spec Camper’s Mess Kit
The Voodoo Tactical Mil-spec Camper’s Mess Kit is a disappointing product that fails to live up to its “Mil-spec” designation. Its poor heat resistance, questionable durability, and tendency to impart a plastic taste to food make it an unsuitable choice for serious outdoor enthusiasts. The Manufacturer should reconsider associating their name with such a low-quality item.
At its price point of $11.99, the Voodoo Tactical Mess Kit might seem like a bargain. However, its short lifespan and compromised performance make it a poor value overall. Investing in a higher-quality mess kit will ultimately save money and provide a more enjoyable outdoor dining experience.
I would not personally recommend the Voodoo Tactical Mil-spec Camper’s Mess Kit. There are far better options available at similar or slightly higher price points. Spend your money wisely and invest in gear that will last.