1. Does it have a need. A bowling ball has a need, is durable, inexpensive and dependable. However, is it needed for survival? Of course, the answer is no. In short, is the item advertised needed or does it have a legitimate use in the survival realm.

2. If the above answer is yes, then we go on to the second question. Does it do what it is advertised to do? Do the matches really light and stay lit? Does the firestarter actually start fires, does the light stick actually work?

3. If the above questions can be answered with a yes, then we go to the next question; Is it durable? Will it work under poor conditions? Because of Murphy's Law, the conditions in which you have to use survival equipment will likely be very poor. So, will it work when it has to?

4. Along with the above, is it dependable? Will it not only work when you need it, but continue to work. A fire starter that only works 5 or 6 times, will not be very useful.

5. Is it durable? Will it break or quit working. This, at first glance, goes along with the above question. However, it is possible to have an item that continues to work after it has broken...for example...half a flint fire starter or a torn survival blanket. However, no one wants broken survival equipment...even if it continues to work.

6. Can you carry it? What I mean is, will it fit in your pack, pocket or vehicle? For example, a survival kit that weights 100lbs cannot be useful on the trail. A flint fire starter that is a foot long does not fit the bill either.

7. Last, is it affordable? I cannot sell, nor buy, very many $100 flashlights, fire starters, survival blankets or matches. I wouldn't want to. That would just be unfair and unnecessary.

Of course, depending on the item in question, there can be other things to consider. However, the above questions apply to all of the items we consider for inventory. This is one of the main reasons why we have become known for the quality of our products and the selection of non "fru fru" items we carry. "Fru fru"? It is a technical term.

And remember, survival equipment left home is like fuel left at the fuel pump. It is really of no use to you at all.

Brian
Best Glide Aviation Survival Equipment, Inc
www.bestglide.com
Adventure...Survival...Life...