Clothing, gear and more: 15 Preps to buy at military surplus stores

By virgiliomarin // 2021-07-20

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Military surplus stores are a great place to buy survival preps for a fraction of the price of brand-new products. In these shops, you will find all kinds of military surplus items that can be useful in a survival situation. Some of the following items may be used, but they are extremely durable: (h/t to SurvivalSullivan.com)

1. Fatigues

Military surplus stores sell different designs of fatigues, from olive drab to desert tan and tactical black wearables. Some of these are not filtered through the armed forces so they may not be military-grade. But if your aim is to camouflage yourself, you shouldn't have trouble finding something that blends well with different environments.

2. Pandemic flu kit

Pandemic flu kits will be useful during a bioweapons attack. These kits usually contain N-95 respirator masks, surgical masks, an instruction card detailing steps to prevent infection and a bottle of hand sanitizer. They're packaged in a compact box so you can fit one in your survival bag.

3. Tactical flashlights

Tactical flashlights used by military members offer at least 600 lumens, enough for use in an indoor survival scenario. Experts suggest buying flashlights with an output of 500 lumens for indoor tactical situations.

4. Bug-out bag

Military backpacks make for excellent bug-out bags because they're built to last and have enough room to fit tactical gear and other essential items. They're also designed in a way that wearers can easily access their tools.

5. Mess kits

A mess kit is a collection of silverware and cookware used during backpacking and camping. The military stopped issued mess kits years ago, but many are still being sold online and in stores.

6. Canteens

Metal canteens are some of the best water containers for bugging out because you can use them to heat your drinking water. When you buy one at a military surplus store, scrub it to remove the rust that may have formed under the cap.

7. Boots

In terms of durability, military combat boots are far superior to their commercial counterparts. You should secure a pair of military-grade boots so you have durable footwear when bugging out.

8. Tactical knives

Tactical knives that once belonged to Marines and airmen are available at military surplus stores. These are the kind of gear you need for your everyday carry because they are built for self-defense. Choose knives that are made of carbon steel as they are more durable than other knives and are easy to conceal. Avoid knives that have a nick in the blade.

9. Flares

Military surplus stores also sell shotgun flares and other non-lethal ammo. They can come in handy during a search and rescue or when you need to sound the alarm.

10. Sleeping bags

Military-grade sleeping bags usually have a lower temperature rating than three-season and even four-season sleeping bags. At the same time, they're waterproof, oversized and made of durable, breathable fabric.

11. Matches

You'll find waterproof matches on the counter of a military surplus store. These items usually come in a sealed, waterproof container designed to be attached to a military backpack.

12. First-aid kits

Some military first-aid kits sold at surplus stores are still intact. But others may be empty or contain items that nobody would want to use anymore. However, the pouches are durable and attachable. You can just add first-aid items to one of these pouches and place it inside your bug-out bag. (Related: Prepping for SHTF: Top gear you need.)

13. P-38 Can openers

P-38 can openers are military-grade and have a lot of uses during a survival situation besides opening a can. They can be used as a Phillips screwdriver, box cutter and splinter remover, among other things.

14. Thermal camo net

Camo nets with thermal protection hide you from view and block the detection of a thermal signal. You can find these tactical items at a military surplus store.

15. Wool trigger finger mittens

Wool trigger finger mittens are designed to keep your hands warm and retain your ability to fire a gun. Make sure you have a pair when you're bugging out to someplace cold. Military surplus stores offer affordable survival preps that are built for tough combat situations. Work these items into your prepping budget so you have military-grade survival gear. Sources include: SurvivalSullivan.com OutdoorWilds.com