UL repair kit

So, I realized that I'm still lugging around the same field repair kit that I was using when I was a kid in the Boy Scouts. The main component was duct tape, because I figured I could use it on any of the fabrics I was carrying. Now, however, I'm using a LOT of silnylon gear (pack, poncho/tarp, tent, etc.), and I'm told that duct tape doesn't work too well on silnylon. Plus, I'm sure I could get rid of most of my old repair kit as stuff I don't need.

So what makes it into your repair kit? Is something around 3 oz. a reasonable expectation for a UL repair kit?

Here is what is in mine.
Stow Sack 0.20 oz.
WP matches & fire-starters in vacuum packed container 0.48 oz
Sewing kit in ziplock-eyeglass screws and screwdriver 0.28 oz
Patches: Adhesive rip-stop, 4"x4"; silnylon, 4"x6";duct tape, 24". 0.44 oz total
Rubber bands, 5 assorted. 0.13 oz
Thermarest mattress repair kit (lightened) 0.58 oz
Sil-nylon repair kit (glue, brush and patches) 0.50 oz
Total weight 2.61 oz

I carry duct tape, and a large needle, and small needle "sewing kit". the large needle is a super old school suture needle with dental floss for thread. (the small one is a regular sewing needle and thread - with a few buttons) and safety pins.

I don't really expect to try to make watertight repairs to silnylon in the field.

I came across this in one of my catalogues and plan on ordering some. I'm sorry I don't a field test report but most of the stuff I've order from this company is top quality and field tested or they don't carry it.

Sail Patch Tape
http://www.duluthtrading.com/search/sear...ocessor=content

Tango61

when I got the NeoAir, I figured I should find a patch kit. The outside is not like the prolite or other self inflatables - it seems to be nylon. So I got a little tube of silicon and a brush, and a few patches. It will presumably work on a small tarp repair. I also have some zip ties, a couple rubber bands, extra cord (mason line, very light and strong), and duct tape. But not much duct tape.

I haave also been very satisfied with items I have ordered from Duluth Trading. They often have some killer deals on fleece, right around this time of year.

I stripped the insulation off some #14 flexible stranded green ground wire. I carry 6" worth, maybe 2 dozen wires, maybe less. They are the best way to fix eyeglasses if you lose the screws. and could be handy for other purposes. I have two miniatures screwdrivers a flat and a phillips, but no duct tape. I'd rather lose feathers and replace them than have glue from tape on my down gear. I quit carrying a needle and thread after a few decades of no use. I have no spare clevis pins for frame packs anymore, nor crazy glue, no leatherman. I frankly haven't had to repair anything that I was capable of repairing in the bush anyway. There is a patch kit in my big agnes sack. I used to carry a nozzle cleaner for my white gas stove but I think if its cleaned before a trip you don't have to carry one and its kinda sharp and hard to pack. I guess I'm not sure what would break that would matter that wouldn't require special tools anyway, something to do when you get home. A repair kit maybe a relic from another age not required anymore unless you're on expedition or maybe canoeing a long way. Like nobody carries bullet molds anymore or worries about keeping their powder horn dry.
Jim

Jim, you are right. My repair kit has ridden many miles in my pack with very little use. The only time I can remember using it is to help other people. I seldom use my compass, but would feel very insecure without it or the repair kit in the backcountry. I know you are right, but can NOT overcome my mental barrier.

For repair, I carry very little (I carry more for first aid I suppose). Basically, some duct tape (packed flat), a very small sewing kit, some patches and adhesive if I'm carrying an inflating pad, a few small safety pins, and (of course) cordage.

Along this same vein, there are things that I do before I leave like... put new batteries in my headlamp and don't carry spares.

Tango61