As we get more into talking about options for civilians to be more equipped to protect and preserve the lives of the people around them, I wanted to offer a couple alternatives for use. As such, in this post we will be talking about the pros and cons of this Trauma Pak compared to those of the ECT IFAK.
First things first, these two kits are not really comparing apples to apples. One is twice the price, and is a complete kit vs the other being a very barebones option. Lets dive in.
So if you go to our write up on the ECT IFAK (Everyday Citizens Tactical Individual First Aid Kit) you can see a whole breakdown of the contents. What the Trauma Pak 3 does is strip a traditional IFAK down to bare bones, and as such, it hits a lower price point at about $45.00.
Already, I will tell you that I do not like the idea of relying completely on such a compact kit, but what I think some appropriate applications would be are: Supplemental kit, Gifts, Tourniquet (TQ) variety, medical caches, and transitional kit.
For example, if the cost of the ECT IFAK is a barrier of entry for you, I would say getting the trauma pak and familiarizing yourself with its use while you save up for the ECT IFAK is a good option. Then you have two different TQs with different applications (we will talk about) and extra gear to keep multiple places. Unfortunately, the longer you wait on the ECT IFAK, the longer you are going without the added coverage of its contents. So, if you can bite the bullet and spend the extra money, I would get the ECT IFAK as a primary. Then, like myself, you can use the trauma pak 3 to supplement your equipment.
Contents:
ECT IFAK | Adventure Medical Kits Trauma Pak III |
Cat TQ | SWAT-T TQ |
Triangular Bandage | Triangular Bandage |
Emergency Trauma Dressing - 4" | Pressure Trauma Dressing |
EMT Shears | EMT Shears |
Glove Responder Blue - Large | Latex-Free Gloves |
Sharpie | Permanent Marker |
| Trauma Response Instructions |
ECT Casualty Card | |
Hyfin Chest Seal (Vented) Twin Pack | |
Wound Packing Gauze | |
Nasopharyngeal Airway W' Lube - 28f | |
Emergency Survival Blanket | |
Eye Shield | |
Duct Tape-Mini - 2" X 100" | |
As you can see, the ECT IFAK is a much more complete solution for a wider variety of injuries, but if all you are worried about is stopping extremity bleeds or having an extra TQ around, the Trauma Pak fits that role very nicely. The only thing that both of these kits are missing that I always add to my own kits is a burn dressing. I don't know the statistical likelyhood of needing it, but I know in my own experience it is a product I could have used multiple times.
So, I mentioned the TQs fit different roles. The CAT TQ is the industry standard. It allows for easy one handed application (imagine if your arm was the extremity injured) and it has a locking windlass to stay secure. However, the SWAT-T TQ does shine in a couple ways. It is a bit more compact and therefore easier to EDC (every day carry), it works on pets, and it can be used for an array of different applications not related to massive hemorrhaging (slings, pressure bandage, fieldcraft, etc). Unfortunately, it does not lock as securely, and it is not preferable for one handed application.
So, I wanted to offer both of these products as recommendations to fill different needs. If you want to purchase the Trauma Pak III and support us, check that out here . AND to purchase the ECT IFAK go here and use code PREVAIL for 10% off!