> TEOTWAWKI Blog: Cache Contents Discussion: Re-Equip/Operational Cache

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6/27/13

Cache Contents Discussion: Re-Equip/Operational Cache

For an overview on various types of caches, hit up my original post on cache contents.

To recap, the purpose of a Re-Equip cache is to do just that--equip you in case you are separated from your gear. Where the last cache discussed, the Speedball, is all about refueling your consumables and allowing you to go farther or operate for longer. The Re-Equip cache sets you up with the tools AND consumables you would need if forced to start with nothing but the clothes on your back.

Always, the exact contents of the cache will vary based on your planned mission--it could be something as simple as a redundant set of EDC items, or as complex as full fighting gear, loaded bug out bags and a vehicle. Both serve the same purpose--re-equipping you.

Decide how big you need to go and develop a list from there.

Of course, your list will need to be adjusted based on the various constraints we're all subject to--size/weight, shelf life, and of course, cost!
 
One note on cost: If you don't have excess, redundant gear floating around and are still pulling together some of the basics, you're probably getting ahead of yourself worrying about caching. That extra gear is a perfect candidate for this kind of thing - perfectly functional, but upgraded for something newer and shinier. That old gear will likely sit in a closet or get sold at a deep discount otherwise. Throw in some bargain shopping and up-cycling and out of pocket costs can be minimal.


As I've mentioned before, place caches only in areas you know to be secure/under control of you or trusted friends/family. Especially if you are planning on caching any kind of firearm. If you can avoid burial, that's generally a good thing, too.


A Sample List: 
Everyone's planned mission and list are going to vary greatly. But, here's a somewhat generic list for a fairly capable re-equip cache gear for post-collapse survival. Multiply by the number of people you plan to equip.
  • Long Gun: Balance the trade-off between resources required and effectiveness - the best/most effective firearm you can afford to cache would be the general answer. This topic bares some more discussion - stay tuned.
  • Handgun: Same as above.
  • A fighting load worth of ammunition and magazines, plus extra
  • A means to carry ammunition into a fight: A chest-rig, bandolier, belt rig or magazine satchel
  • Holster for the handgun 
  • Small cleaning/spare parts kit
  • IFAK, boo-boo kit and some basic meds - pain killers, stomach, antibiotics, caffeine
  • Enough food to do the job - MREs, freeze dried or well packed shelf stable foods
  • Water (stored separately) - lots
  • Metal container/water bottle
  • Water filter and purification tablets
  • Change of clothes - sturdy, earth tones, plus spare socks
  • Gloves
  • Boots
  • Flashlight and plenty of extra batteries
  • Headlamp and plenty of extra batteries
  • Walkies and plenty of extra batteries
  • A handful of glow sticks
  • Burner/disposable cell phone
  • Fixed blade knife
  • Multitool
  • Bic lighters and fire starting kit
  • Other outdoorsy basics - cordage, duct tape, sail needle, compass, sleep system and shelter if you can fit 'em, etc.
  • A backpack or bag to carry the excess stuff in
  • Cash-money
BTW, James Yaeger has a pretty good series on this variety of cache - he calls it an Operational cache, which is pretty much the same thing we're talking about here. (If there's some International Agency of Cache Naming Conventions that has officially named these things and my made up names are going against the norm, lemme know.) Yaeger is a polarizing dude and uses some colorful language, so heads up on that. Link to the first of the 3 part series right here.