Posted by DUTYTAC on Oct 14th 2026
IFAK Basics: What Goes in a Patrol or Range Trauma Kit
Medical
IFAK basics: what goes in a trauma kit
An Individual First Aid Kit is built for the injuries that kill fast: severe bleeding and chest wounds. Here is what belongs in one.
Tourniquet
Stops severe limb bleeding
Hemostatic gauze
Packs deep wounds
Pressure bandage
Holds packing in place
Chest seals
Covers chest wounds
Gloves
Protects you
Trauma shears
Cuts clothing fast
Marker
Writes the TQ time
Where to carry it
- Tourniquet on the belt or plate carrier where either hand can reach it.
- Full IFAK on your belt, in your patrol bag or range bag.
- A second kit in your vehicle.
Kits and parts
Get trained
Gear without training does not save lives. Take a Stop the Bleed or TCCC class and practice applying a tourniquet on yourself with either hand.
Key takeaways
- Tourniquet, hemostatic gauze, pressure bandage, chest seals.
- Keep the tourniquet reachable with either hand.
- Training matters more than the gear.
General information only, not medical advice.