8 Things better than duct tape…

8 Things better than duct tape… Ok well we all know that was a lie. Here are 8 products that are almost as useful at fixing things in the field as duct tape. I keep these handfuls of things with me on any adventure and they have saved me many times in the field with bike repairs, car repairs, tent repairs, and I think I have even fixed my tent a time or two.


Numero uno Bailing wire, every hillbilly out there worth their salt knows about 100 uses for bailing wire. It is useful in fixing heavy repairs and works in high heat unlike rope. I personally have fixed my motorcycle chain, car muffler bracket, bicycle chain, and tent. You couldn’t carry enough of this stuff.

Number 2 Aluminum brazing rods, I found these things at an auto swap meet and assumed they were a gimmick but sure enough you can fix minor metal repairs with this. I haven’t used them in the field yet but I was able to make solid connections in a soda can where I had cut holes that needed to be filled. Based on that experience I am sure you could repair a hole in an oil or transmission pan with ease although I am doubtful it would withstand any higher pressure applications, further testing will take place.

Number 3 Silicone tape, Anderson's General Store now carries this high temperature silicone tape that only sticks to its self. This tape is strong, waterproof, and even an electrical insulator. You can use your imagination to find a few uses for this tape. I have tested it on a minor hose repair with success. Radiator hose repair, electrical insulation, vacuum line repair, and I bet it would be a good temporary fix on a hydraulic line.

Number 4 Para cord, any former solider or seaman, should know how valuable this stuff is. Just make sure you don’t but the department store variety as it does not have the 7 inner strands. This cord is rated at 550lb and I have used it to tie down just about anything. When I was younger I may or may not have used this for a short rappel when I didn’t have any rope but I can’t recommend any vertical activities with anything other than climbing rope. If you don’t need something so strong just cut off the ends and use the inner strands, they are like a heavy nylon twine and are great for lashing things together in a survival situation or even in making snares.

Number 5 Fishing line needles and hooks. I throw these three together because fishing line can make an excellent thread for campsite repairs as well as sutures if you were so brave. The obvious use as a fishing line and it can be used to tie up anything that doesn’t require much strength.

Number 6 Tri-Flow. Tri-Flow is one of the best lubricants I know of. A lot of people don’t understand that WD-40 is not a lubricant it is a solvent. If you use WD-40 and then fail to lubricate the item you are just prolonging your problem. Another popular lubricant that fails to get the job done is 3 in 1 oil. This is a vegetable based lubricant and is typically not the answer when lubricating metal parts. Tri-flow is a thin free flowing lubricant that works incredibly well for chain lubrication, door hinges, and anything else that could use a thin coat of oil to prevent rust.

Number 7 quality multi-tool. What repair kit is complete without a tool? Multi-tools are being made by a number of quality manufactures and having as few or as many options as you wish. I like to keep things simple a screw driver or two, a blade, and pliers work for me. Every person has their own preference. The only general recommendations I can make are that the SOG products work really well and if it says made in china on it go ahead and throw it in the trash can now while you are at home, that way you don’t have to throw it away in the field and become really pissed off. You truly get what you pay for so buy quality here and it will outperform and out last.

Number 8 Flash lights, Murphy’s Law states anything that can go wrong will. So if you bring a flash light you probably won’t be working on your field repair in the dark. If you forget your flash light something will break when it is dark out and no one wants to use their cell phone for light while the try to repair a muffler with bailing wire. Flash lights vary in price from 2-200 dollars and they are worth what you pay for. If you want a budget item then stick with the Mag-lite. I prefer the newer high out put options from Streamlite and surefire though if you have that kind of money to spend.

Be creative in your field repairs and don’t forget that something as simple as an empty soda cans can become a part of your repair when your miles from home and don’t have very many options. Honorable mention should be made for zip ties, blue tarps, and super glue.