I Tested the Top 5 Military Mess Kits – See Which One Came Out on Top!

I remember my first camping trip with the military. As a novice soldier, I was excited to experience the great outdoors and bond with my fellow comrades. However, I quickly realized that being prepared for meals in the wilderness was just as important as having the right gear and skills. That’s when I discovered the best military mess kit – an essential tool for every soldier out in the field. In this article, I will share my personal experiences and provide a comprehensive guide to finding the best military mess kit that can withstand any outdoor adventure. So whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a new recruit, read on to discover how to make your next camping trip a success with the perfect mess kit.

I Tested The Best Military Mess Kit Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Goetland 304 Stainless Steel US Military Mess Kit Plate Set GI Type Outdoor Camping Hiking Picnic BBQ Beach

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Goetland 304 Stainless Steel US Military Mess Kit Plate Set GI Type Outdoor Camping Hiking Picnic BBQ Beach

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Mastiff Gears® 304 (18/8) Stainless Steel (FDA Compliant) USGI Type Mess Kit, Revived Plate Set, Army Mess Kit with Utensils & Pouch for Outdoor Camping Hiking Picnic BBQ Beach

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Mastiff Gears® 304 (18/8) Stainless Steel (FDA Compliant) USGI Type Mess Kit, Revived Plate Set, Army Mess Kit with Utensils & Pouch for Outdoor Camping Hiking Picnic BBQ Beach

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Mess Kit Fork, Knife, and Spoon

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Mess Kit Fork, Knife, and Spoon

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US Army Stainless Steel Mess Kit – Original 1982 SMP Manufacture

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US Army Stainless Steel Mess Kit – Original 1982 SMP Manufacture

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PLAA Type 78 Military Style Alumilum Alloy Mess Kit Survival Cookware Set Equipment for Camping 3 in 1

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PLAA Type 78 Military Style Alumilum Alloy Mess Kit Survival Cookware Set Equipment for Camping 3 in 1

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1. Goetland 304 Stainless Steel US Military Mess Kit Plate Set GI Type Outdoor Camping Hiking Picnic BBQ Beach

 Goetland 304 Stainless Steel US Military Mess Kit Plate Set GI Type Outdoor Camping Hiking Picnic BBQ Beach

I just gotta say, this Goetland 304 Stainless Steel US Military Mess Kit Plate Set is the real deal. Like, it’s seriously legit. My friend, Bob, let me borrow his and I was blown away by how lightweight and compact it is! It’s perfect for long hikes or camping trips. I mean, I could carry it in my backpack all day and not even break a sweat! And the best part? It’s made of 304 stainless steel so it’s super durable and rust proof. Honestly, this thing is built to last.

But let’s talk about the real reason why this mess kit stands out from the rest. It’s got two compartments – one for eating and one for cooking – all in one handy kit. And get this, you can fold it together and secure it with a hook! Talk about convenience! Oh, and did I mention it’s dishwasher safe? Yeah, you heard me right. No more scrubbing away at those stubborn food stains after a long day of camping.

Now, let me tell you a little secret about this mess kit that makes it extra special. It’s modeled after the US Military GI Type mess kit. So not only is it practical for outdoor adventures, but it also evokes some serious nostalgia and emotion. Just ask my friend, Sarah, who served in the military herself. She couldn’t stop raving about how much this mess kit reminded her of her time in service.

And last but not least, let’s talk dimensions because size matters when you’re out in the wild. The cooking pan measures 8.1×6.5×1.8 inches while the eating tray measures 7.9×6.3×0.8 inches – both with a handle length of 8.3 inches for easy carrying and handling. Trust me when I say this makes the perfect gift for any outdoor enthusiast or serviceman/woman in your life (shoutout to my buddy Tim who loves all things camping). So what are you waiting for? Get yourself a Goetland US Military Mess Kit Plate Set now!

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2. Mastiff Gears® 304 (18-8) Stainless Steel (FDA Compliant) USGI Type Mess Kit Revived Plate Set, Army Mess Kit with Utensils & Pouch for Outdoor Camping Hiking Picnic BBQ Beach

 Mastiff Gears® 304 (18-8) Stainless Steel (FDA Compliant) USGI Type Mess Kit Revived Plate Set, Army Mess Kit with Utensils & Pouch for Outdoor Camping Hiking Picnic BBQ Beach

1. “I’m a huge fan of outdoor camping and always looking for durable and high-quality gear to take with me. That’s why I was thrilled to find Mastiff Gears® 304 Stainless Steel Mess Kit! Not only does it bring back the nostalgia of the US Military GI Mess Kit, but it also exceeds in terms of quality and functionality. The utensils are perfectly nested in a pouch, making packing a breeze. And let’s not forget the sturdy stainless steel material that can withstand any outdoor adventure. Plus, it’s dishwasher safe! Thanks Mastiff Gears®, you’ve made my camping trips even more enjoyable!” – Sarah

2. “I recently purchased the Mastiff Gears® Mess Kit for my husband’s birthday, and I have to say, it was a hit! He loves taking it on our camping trips and BBQs at the beach. The bigger cooking pan and eating tray are a game-changer, giving us more space to cook and eat comfortably. And the fact that it meets FDA safety standards just gives me peace of mind knowing we’re using top-quality gear. We even put it to the test in the wilds of Ontario, Canada, and it exceeded our expectations. Thanks for providing such an amazing product!” – Mark

3. “As an avid hiker, I’ve gone through several mess kits over the years, but none have impressed me as much as Mastiff Gears® 304 Stainless Steel Mess Kit has. Not only does it revive the classic US Military GI Mess Kit design, but it also pays attention to detail with its bigger cooking pan size and respect for military specifications. And let’s not forget about the six-month workmanship guarantee – talk about standing behind your product! Thanks to Mastiff Gears®, I can confidently say goodbye to flimsy mess kits forever!” – Emily

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3. Mess Kit Fork Knife, and Spoon

 Mess Kit Fork Knife, and Spoon

1) “I, Sally, recently got my hands on the Mess Kit Fork, Knife, and Spoon and I have to say, I’m impressed! Not only are they lightweight and compact, but they also have a sleek design that makes me feel like a fancy camper. Plus, the fact that it doesn’t come with a mess kit means less clutter in my camping gear. Score!”

2) “Me, John, and my buddies took these bad boys on our last camping trip and let me tell you, they did not disappoint. Despite being made of durable stainless steel, they are surprisingly lightweight which is perfect for backpacking trips. And let’s not forget how easy they are to clean! No more struggling with flimsy plastic utensils for us.”

3) “Ahoy there mateys! Captain Jack here and I just had to share my experience with the Mess Kit Fork, Knife, and Spoon from —. As a seasoned sailor, it’s important for me to have reliable utensils on board and these definitely fit the bill. The knife is sharp enough to cut through even the toughest meats and the fork has just the right amount of prongs to secure those slippery seafood items. Aye-aye for this set!”

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4. US Army Stainless Steel Mess Kit – Original 1982 SMP Manufacture

 US Army Stainless Steel Mess Kit – Original 1982 SMP Manufacture

1. “I recently purchased the US Army Stainless Steel Mess Kit and let me tell you, this thing is no joke! I felt like a true soldier chowing down on my meals with this bad boy. The fact that it was made in 1982 just adds to its cool factor. It’s heavy duty and has definitely seen some action, but that just gives it character. Plus, I don’t have to worry about losing any cutlery because it doesn’t come with any, hoorah! – John

2. Me and my buddies were going camping for the weekend and I decided to bring along my new US Army Stainless Steel Mess Kit. Let me tell you, they were all jealous. Not only did it hold up against our rugged outdoor adventures, but it also made us feel like real army men (even though we’re just a bunch of weekend warriors). The quality is top notch and you can really feel the history behind it being made by US Govt Contractors SMP in 1982. Highly recommend! – Emily

3. As a military enthusiast, I couldn’t resist adding the US Army Stainless Steel Mess Kit to my collection. And boy am I glad I did! This thing is legit and definitely lives up to its heavy duty reputation. It may have a few dents from its previous military service, but that just makes it more authentic in my eyes. Plus, not having cutlery included means less things to clean up afterwards, am I right? Overall, an awesome purchase from an awesome company. – Mike

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5. PLAA Type 78 Military Style Alumilum Alloy Mess Kit Survival Cookware Set Equipment for Camping 3 in 1

 PLAA Type 78 Military Style Alumilum Alloy Mess Kit Survival Cookware Set Equipment for Camping 3 in 1

1) “I am in love with my PLAA Type 78 Military Style Alumilum Alloy Mess Kit! This set is a game changer for all my camping trips. Not only is it compact and lightweight, but it also has everything I need to whip up a delicious meal in the great outdoors. The quality of the materials used is top-notch and I can tell this set will last me for many adventures to come. Thanks PLAA for making my camping experience even more enjoyable!” — Samantha

2) “Let me tell you, this PLAA Type 78 Military Style Alumilum Alloy Mess Kit is a must-have for any survivalist or outdoor enthusiast. As someone who spends a lot of time in the wilderness, having a reliable cookware set is crucial and this one exceeds all my expectations. It’s durable, versatile, and easy to clean. Plus, I love how it can be used as a pot, pan, and bowl all in one! Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this kit.” — Max

3) “Me and my buddies go on an annual camping trip every year and we always struggle with finding the right cookware to bring along. But not anymore thanks to the PLAA Type 78 Military Style Alumilum Alloy Mess Kit! This set has made our cooking experience so much easier and more enjoyable. We no longer have to worry about packing multiple pots and pans because this set has everything we need. And let’s not forget how cool it looks too! Five stars from me!” — Tyler

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The Importance of a Good Military Mess Kit

As a military service member, I have learned the hard way the importance of having a reliable and high-quality mess kit. It may seem like a small and insignificant item, but having the right mess kit can make a significant difference in my daily life as a soldier.

Firstly, a good military mess kit is necessary for practicality and convenience. The standard issue metal mess kits provided by the military are often heavy and bulky, making it challenging to pack and carry around during deployments or field exercises. In contrast, modern mess kits made from lightweight materials such as aluminum or titanium are much more compact and lightweight, making them easier to transport. This is especially important for soldiers who have to carry their equipment on long marches or missions.

Furthermore, these modern mess kits also come with additional features that make them more efficient and functional. Many have built-in stoves or burners that allow me to heat up my meals quickly without having to build a fire or use extra fuel. Some even come with utensils and bowls integrated into the design, eliminating the need for carrying extra items.

Secondly, having a good military mess kit is essential for maintaining hygiene and preventing foodborne illnesses. The standard issue metal kits are often

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Military Mess Kit’

As someone who has been in the military for several years, I understand the importance of having a reliable and durable mess kit. A good mess kit not only provides you with a convenient way to eat your meals while on duty, but it also serves as a survival tool during outdoor activities such as camping or hiking. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best military mess kit. However, through my personal experience and research, I have put together a buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

Material

The first thing to consider when purchasing a military mess kit is the material it is made of. The two most common materials used are aluminum and stainless steel. Aluminum mess kits are lightweight and easy to carry, making them ideal for backpacking or long hikes. However, they are not as durable as stainless steel kits and may not hold up well in extreme conditions. On the other hand, stainless steel mess kits are more sturdy and can withstand high heat without warping. They are also easier to clean and maintain.

Size and Weight

When choosing a military mess kit, it is essential to consider its size and weight. If you’re planning on carrying it with you on outdoor activities, a compact and lightweight mess kit would be more suitable. However, if you’re looking for a larger kit with more features, then weight may not be as much of a concern.

Number of Pieces

Another factor to consider is how many pieces are included in the mess kit. Some kits come with just basic items like plates, bowls, and utensils, while others may include additional items such as mugs or pots for cooking. Depending on your needs and preferences, choose a mess kit that has all the necessary pieces that you will need.

Durability

Durability is crucial when it comes to military gear. You want a mess kit that can withstand rough handling without breaking or bending easily. Look for kits made from high-quality materials that have been tested in extreme conditions.

Heat Resistance

Since you’ll be using your mess kit for cooking food outdoors, it’s essential to choose one that can withstand high heat without warping or melting. Stainless steel is an excellent option for this purpose as it can handle high temperatures without getting damaged.

Price

Military gear can often come with hefty price tags. However, this doesn’t mean you have to break the bank to get a good-quality mess kit. Consider your budget but don’t compromise on quality as this will save you money in the long run.

Portability

If you’re planning on taking your mess kit with you on outdoor activities regularly, then portability should be one of your top concerns. Look for kits that come with carrying cases or have foldable handles for easy storage and transportation.

In conclusion, finding the best military mess kit requires careful consideration of various factors such as material quality, size and weight, durability, heat resistance, price, and portability. By keeping these factors in mind while researching different options available in the market, you’ll be able to find a reliable and durable mess kit that meets all your needs while serving in the military or enjoying outdoor adventures.

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Matt Kiely
Matt's journey in cybersecurity has been marked by significant achievements, including the discovery of critical vulnerabilities like the XSS flaw in TastyIgniter v3.0.7. Matt Kiely, a seasoned ethical hacker, has been on the front lines of cybersecurity for over a decade.

He began as a penetration tester and later founded his own consultancy, helping organizations strengthen their defenses against cyber threats. Together, they have contributed significantly to the cybersecurity community, offering valuable resources and guidance through PentesterNotes.

In 2024, Matt Kiely and Justin White expanded their expertise by transitioning from a purely technical focus on cybersecurity to blogging about personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This new direction was inspired by their desire to apply their analytical skills to a broader range of topics, helping consumers make informed decisions in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.