Exotac ripSPOOL Lightweight Field Repair Kit - Compact Survival Gear

In this review the Exotac ripSPOOL is evaluated as a compact, utilitarian field repair kit aimed at hikers, backpackers, and anyone who values lightweight preparedness; the single biggest reason to buy is how much practical repair and survival utility is packed into a small spool that stays light in a pack. The reviewer found it excels as a multipurpose emergency tool for clothing and gear repairs, improvised fishing and first aid, and as a simple fire-starting aid thanks to its integrated FireCord lanyard design.

Key Features

• Lightweight complete kit: The ripSPOOL combines tape, line, a needle and a lanyard in one small package so you can carry a wide range of repair options without bulk.
• High-strength synthetic line: Over 60 ft of 30 lb test braided line provides robust cordage for re-stitching gear, crafting tools or forming an improvised fishing rig.
• Heavy-duty repair tape: More than 50 in of repair tape works for patching holes, temporary bandages or as tinder in a pinch because the tape is flammable.
• #16 sail needle: The retained sail needle can be used for sewing, awling or thimble work and stores securely in the spool.
• FireCord lanyard: The lanyard contains an inner red core that can be pulled out and burned like a candle wick to help start fires when combined with a ferrocerium striker.

Who It's For

The ripSPOOL is ideal for day hikers, minimalist backpackers and bushcrafters who prefer compact, multiuse tools and who want reliable cordage, tape and a needle without carrying bulk. It is also suited to emergency kits and anyone who values lightweight preparedness for clothing or pack repairs on the trail.

Those seeking heavy-duty, long-term workshop repairs or a full first aid system should look elsewhere; the ripSPOOL is designed for field improvisation and temporary fixes rather than permanent shop-grade restoration or a complete medical kit.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent weight-to-utility ratio, offering tape, line and a needle in a small package.
• Durable materials; users report it stands up to real repair tasks and feels built to last.
• Versatile fire-starting option with the FireCord inner core that doubles as tinder.

Cons

• The needle compartment can feel underpopulated and a few users noted the storage space could hold more accessories.

Specifications

Product	ripSPOOL Lightweight Field Repair Kit
Line length	Over 60 ft of 30 lb test synthetic braided line
Repair tape	Over 50 in of heavy-duty repair tape
Needle	#16 sail needle retained in spool
Firecord	Lanyard with inner red core usable as tinder
Origin	Made in the USA

Our Verdict

The Exotac ripSPOOL is a compact, well thought-out field repair kit that delivers high utility for minimal weight, making it good value for hikers and survival-minded users who need reliable cordage, tape and a sewing needle on the go. It is not a replacement for full workshop repairs or a comprehensive medical kit, but as a lightweight emergency and bushcraft tool it performs very well and earns a recommendation for outdoor use.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much line comes with the ripSPOOL?
It includes over 60 ft of 30 lb test synthetic braided line suitable for re-stitching and improvised fishing.

Can the repair tape be used as tinder?
Yes, the heavy-duty repair tape is flammable and can be used as tinder in an emergency.

What is the purpose of the FireCord lanyard?
The lanyard has an inner red core that can be pulled out and burned like a candle wick to assist with fire starting when used with a ferrocerium striker.