When putting together tactical gear, we usually focus on items related to carrying ammunition, equipment, and ballistic protection. Magazine pouches, vests, and backpacks are obviously essential, but there is one item that ranks above all of them in terms of importance. This equipment is not used for combat, but for survival. We are talking about an individual first aid kit (IFAK pouch) – your personal life insurance policy in the field.

What is IFAK and why is it so important?

First of all, it is important to understand that an IFAK is not a standard first aid kit with bandages and hydrogen peroxide. It is a specialized medical kit designed to save lives in the field, whose main purpose is to stop massive bleeding and treat the most serious injuries that can result from gunshots or explosions. It is a tool that gives you crucial minutes to reach professional medical help.

The philosophy behind IFAK is simple and brilliant at the same time: the contents of your IFAK pouch are primarily intended to save you. Of course, you can use it to help someone else, but its basic premise is that in an emergency, your teammate can use your medical equipment to save your life. That’s why this is one item you absolutely cannot skimp on.

Key features of a good first aid kit pocket

The contents of a first aid kit are crucial, but the pouch you carry it in is just as important. A good IFAK pouch is not just a regular cargo pouch. It must meet several conditions, the most important of which is speed and ease of access. That’s why professional models, such as our Side First Aid Pouch, feature a “fast removable” system.

This system, usually based on Velcro and a buckle, allows you to remove the entire first aid kit from the mounting panel on your vest or belt with one quick movement. This makes it easy to hand it to a colleague or place it in front of you for full access to its contents. Equally important is the well-designed interior with elastic loops and compartments that keep the equipment in place and prevent it from falling out when opened.

Where should you place your IFAK pouch on your gear?

There is one rule for placing an IFAK pouch: you must be able to access it with both hands. You never know which of your limbs will be functional in an emergency. That is why operators usually place their IFAK pouches in several proven locations that allow for such access.

Popular locations include the back of the tactical belt (at six o’clock), the side panel of the Plate Carrier vest, or its lower front part. It is important that the location of the first aid kit does not interfere with access to other key equipment, such as magazines or handguns. Also, remember that your team should know where you carry your medical kit—standardization within the group can save lives.

What should be in your IFAK? (Basics overview)

Note: The following list is only a general outline. The selection of medical equipment and the ability to use it require professional training.

The contents of the first aid kit should be based on tactical rescue protocols, such as TCCC. The basic, proven set that should be included in every IFAK pouch is:

• Tourniquet: For stopping massive bleeding from limbs.
• Hemostatic gauze: Special gauze soaked in a blood-clotting agent, for packing deep wounds.
• Chest seal: For securing gunshot and stab wounds in the chest area.
• Pressure bandage (so-called Israeli bandage): A universal elastic bandage for dressing wounds and applying pressure.
• Nitrile gloves: For your safety and the safety of the person you are helping.

Investing in your safety

Owning weapons and equipment imposes responsibility on us. Part of this responsibility is being prepared for the worst. A well-equipped IFAK pouch and, more importantly, knowing how to use it, is an absolute must for every shooter, soldier, officer, or airsoft enthusiast. It is not an expense, but an investment in the most valuable thing you have—your life and health.