Reviewed by The Muddy Madam

The Bear Grylls survival series of products are not your usual 'lets slap a celebrity name on our normal products' type of thing. Bear is very involved in the design process of all the items in his range, after all, with his face all over the packaging, he doesn't want to be associated with any old guff. With Gerber’s 75+ years of making damn good products, and Bear Grylls' extensive knowledge, gained from his years in the British Special Forces and as a world renowned mountaineer and survival trainer, you know the Bear Grylls range is bound to be good.

The Survival Bracelet is a product that I wasn't sure I'd ever need, but after a day in the countryside, with a bunch of hunky ex-marines, I can now say that it's definitely something that will be added to my outdoor kit.

Let me explain...

I was lucky enough to be invited by Gerber to a product showcase in the lovely setting of Wroxall Abbey Estate. Not only did we have the usual area where we could handle and learn about the various tools, from the everyday to the military lines, but we also had a day of challenges competing against other journalists and outdoor business owners to do tasks with various Gerber tools; one of which was the Survival Bracelet.

The marines showed us how they could use it to catch food (nothing was harmed), and string that food up off the ground to keep it away from creepy crawlies, and also explained that you could use it to make a shelter or a simple bow. Throughout the day there were various challenges that involved using the paracord. We had to make a fishing line, tie various twigs together for assorted reasons, though my favourite use was when we made a spear out of a branch, the bracelet's paracord and a the LMF II Infantry Knife. Beware, any wild boar that may cross my path, I'm ready for you (don't worry, as I haven't come across any wild boar in Bolton in the last 45 years, I think the boar are pretty safe).

The bracelet adjusts with one hand thanks to a simple cinch system that keeps it tight, and also makes for easy removal when you need it. It also has an emergency whistle attached to the wrist cord, which can be used to warn for danger or to signal the rescue team to your whereabouts. This is probably the most important bit for me, as I inherited the clumsy gene from my mum (I busted my ankle in Scotland, within 5 minutes of leaving my tent, by tripping over on the side of a road!).

So, am I ready to be stranded on my desert island?

Yes, as long as I've got my Bear Grylls survival gear!

TECHNICAL BITS

• Woven from 12 feet of strong paracord
• Easy, one-hand size adjustment
• An integrated whistle
• The stretchy easy adjust system means the bracelet fits most
• Comes with a copy of Bear Grylls 'Priorities of Survival' pocket guide
• Backed by Gerber’s Lifetime Warranty (25 years outside of North America)

Website: www.gerber-store.co.uk     Price: RRP £19.99