AnsomMag.com |

ALL THE COMFORTS OF HOME

Elie Markin, of Ledmark Industries wholesales a variety of basic backpacking equipment. One of his most popular items is a six-piece non-stick mess kit.

“It is the modern day answer to the traditional mess kit,” said Markin. “The pots and pans are Teflon-coated and come with a mesh bag and a lightweight gripper that can be used on the fry pan and one quart pot.”

He carries aluminum military canteens, which remain popular, as the aluminum interior eliminates the plastic taste.

His compass inventory consists of more than 15 items, ranging from military lensatic models to a basic easy-to-use compass with an attached thermometer.

“It is a great emergency item that is easy to merchandise near coats and jackets,” said Markin of the latter.

One of the joys of going outdoors is the ability to observe the fullness of nature. A good pair of binoculars enhances the outdoor experience. Markin recommends his Water Sport, an 8x25 waterproof, fog proof and rubber armored model. The nitrogen fill protects the instrument from moisture.

Camping business has also been strong at Rothco.

“We have been surprised at our sales.  People are opting for less expensive vacations,” said spokesman Hans Blechschmidt 

Rothco specializes in basic equipment for the backpacker as opposed to the family camper.

Insect repellents have been a top seller since the outbreak of the West Nile Virus. Backpackers today are diligent about using DEET based repellents. 

Rothco’s mosquito repellents contain DEET in concentration sas high as 30 percent. Higher concentrations are available, said Blechschmidt, but he noted that studies have shown that concentrations higher than 30 percent are no more effective, although they provide protection for a longer period.

Rothco also sells a pyrethrum based tick killer, Unlike DEET based repellents, pyrethrum should be applied only to clothing and never directly to the skin.

For water purification, Rothco offers standard iodine tablets and slightly better tasting Chlorine tablets, as well as a two-step P.A. Plus system, consisting of iodine tablets to clean the water and a second tablet to remove the iodine taste.

For now, Rothco does not sell water filtration systems.

The government has done extensive testing and has yet to recommend a system, said Blechschmidt.

“The GIs is are buying their own. If the government came out with a recommendation, we would have an easier time selecting one,” he added.

Other basic items that Blechschmidt suggests include the GI survival knife in either the original or copy, the GI magnesium fire starter and a basic compass. 

In the latter category Rothco has enjoyed success with Silva and the military Cammenga compasses, as well as with it s own less imported line.

Proper clothing is as important to survival as carrying the right accessories

For hiking in colder climates and at higher altitudes, Blechschmidt recommends moisture wicking polypropylene fleece underwear.

“They are water proof and breathable and keep the camper warm and dry,” he said.