In many situations, military equipment can be a first-rate option for preparedness and survival, and in many cases, it is not that costly. Despite the fact that Army Surplus shops are becoming more uncommon, many still exist.
Because we’re Survivalists and Preppers and we know the value of good military gear, we should make a point of using these shops before they vanish into thin air.
I’ve compiled a list of 10 items plus a bonus that you may find at an army surplus store for less than $20. These are all products I’ve previously bought.
Shemagh
Shemaghs, also known as keffiyeh, are essential gear for most hunters, hikers, and survivalists. These head coverings are easy to find, both in new and secondhand condition, in a variety of colors. Military supply stores are great locations to purchase such goods.
You should always look for a Shemagh that is made of 100% pure cotton fabric. Avoid buying imitations or cheap knock-offs that are made from synthetic materials.
The uses for a simple Shemagh, also known as a headscarf, are worth an entire article on their own, however, I can attest to the fact that mine was used to bandage up my kid with a broken limb while we were out camping.
Watch Cap
When I served as a young enlisted man, I refused to wear the woolen watch cap issued by my unit. My decision was based on the belief that a thinner, more fashionable-looking balaclava mask would make me appear cooler Needless to say, I looked more tactical and cooler but my balaclava was neither warm nor comfortable.
Now with a few more years on the clock and a bit of maturity (ones hopes!) I prefer the watch cap. Woolen hats with thick, long, straight, or no brims are available. As long as they are made of wool, they will keep you toasty. Each winter season, I put on my old military watch hat to keep me warm and protected while I work on my farm, get supplies from the nearest town or venture out into the woods.
Poncho
Military surplus stores frequently sell used, out-of-date, or damaged goods. Ponchos, in particular, may be purchased for a low price. However, before purchasing a secondhand poncho, inspect it for rips, tears, or other flaws like rot.
Ponchos will not only protect you from the rain, but they can also be used as an emergency shelter, a stretcher, a body bag, or a sleeping mat when used with a poncho lining.
If you spot some good quality ponchos at a fair price I recommend buying a few, because you will find you have many uses for them.
Snipers Veil
I frequently use a snipers mask as an ornamental headscarf when out hunting for food or exploring the outdoors. They are good for similar uses like a Shemagh. However, since the veil is made of a fine cotton fabric, it can be used in a variety of situations.
The sniper mask also functions as a superb disguise. They function as a camouflage veil – you can wear it around your head and still look through it without being seen.
Can openers
The “P-38” can-opener was introduced in 1942, along with “K-ration” and “C-ration” meals, and it was in use until the late-1980s. While the military demand for the “P” series has vanished, “P-11” is still manufactured and sold.
These are simple openers made entirely of thin, flat steel. The blades on these gadgets flip out at a right angle. They are inexpensive, so adding a few to your canned goods storage is simple.
The only one I use is the P – 5 -1. I’m sure there’s one in my kitchen utensils. In fact, when I open a tin of canned cream, I can do it faster than most hand-operated openers you buy in fancy kitchen stores.
Field Manuals
Military field manuals seem to be filled with information about everything. They’re a great resource for survivalists and preppers alike, and they’d make a great addition to your prepper’s library. The information contained in these books ranges from weapons and navigation techniques to first aid, so there’ll surely be something of interest for everyone.
Please note – the field manuals noted below relate to the United States Army.
Here are a few important guidebooks to keep an eye out for:
• SH-1276 US Army Rangers handbook 
· FM 20-3 Camouflage
· FM 3-25.26 Land Navigation
· FM 4-25.11 First Aid For Soldiers
· FM 5-31 Boobytraps
· FM 21-76 Survival
Trioxane Fuel Tabs
The tiny gasoline tablets are a frequently overlooked prepper item that you may still be able to locate at your local military surplus shop. While the troops have now switched to utilizing smokeless rations, I recall fondly igniting a few of these pills to make a beverage, as well as warming a package of almost inedible odd meat. 
The tiny tablets are also excellent for starting a fire, making them ideal for keeping in a survival kit. I keep one in each bug out bag so everyone in my family can start a fire quickly.
Pouches
I am a firm believer in being organized. Using small pouches, bags and packs to hold equipment is a great way to keep things organized. The army has a large supply of bags and pockets that you may reuse to keep your stuff in order, whether they’re in your backpack or just lying around.
Sleeping Pad
The wonderful thing about a foam camping mattress is that they will never wear out, become leaky, or go flat. Airbeds are becoming increasingly popular, and many campers carry a patch kit with them in case their inflatable bed gets punctured.
The issue is if your mattress deflates at 3am that will still disrupt your sleep uncomfortably and it’s very annoying trying to find and fix a hole in the middle of the night. I’ve slept on a foam mattress since I was eighteen and I’m not gonna change it for a air mattress.
Sandbags
Having a lot of sandbags on hand is a fantastic idea. They don’t require a lot of room when they’re not in use. You can utilize them to direct the flow of water or to provide protection against bullets. You can also use them as weights, counters, or even as a storage space for your equipment.
In most situations, it is impractical to maintain a sufficient number of these items to safeguard a house from a flood. However, having a few dozens of them around will most certainly be beneficial in the event of a power failure.
Ammo Cans
Ammunition storage containers are so valuable that it’s a good idea to keep several of them around. They come in a wide range of sizes and shapes, making them suitable for a variety of applications. They are ideal for storing all kinds of gear that is loose. They’re also small enough that they can fit into a lot of places.
A few years ago, I converted a 7.62mm ammunition box into a tiny tool box that fit nicely behind the seat in my Chevrolet S – 10. I also have an aluminum foil lined container that I use as a Faraday Cage to store some of my amateur radios and electronic equipment.
Some friends of mine have used ammunition boxes to make wood stoves and power banks, as well as a variety of other do-it-yourself tasks.
While some military equipment isn’t worth having, there is a wide range of useful clothing and other equipment available at a reasonable price. These items are often modestly priced, however they frequently provide the greatest value.
I encourage you to check out the army surplus stores for these items. You’ll be glad you did when you take home some great tools and survival gear.