Tradecraft 102: Building a Discreet Emergency Kit with Undertac Underwear
- Jonny S.
- Apr 1
- 5 min read
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. We do not recommend attempting any practices described herein, nor experimenting with the items discussed. If you choose to do so, you proceed at your own risk and accept all liability. Never carry sharp objects or anything that could be considered dangerous or repurposed from its original intent without proper authorization.
In high-stakes scenarios—whether you’re a Special Forces operator, a contractor in a volatile region, or a traveler in unfamiliar territory—having a discreet emergency kit can mean the difference between survival and disaster. Tradecraft, the art of espionage and survival skills, teaches us how to prepare for the unexpected without drawing attention. Today, we’re diving into how to build a covert emergency kit using the Undertac Infantry’s Escape & Evasion (E&E) pocket, a feature designed for tactical underwear. Or, for a ready-made solution, check out our Escape & Evasion Kit, perfectly sized for the E&E pocket. Let’s explore why Undertac is the best tactical underwear for survivalists and how it can keep you mission-ready.
Why Build a Discreet Emergency Kit?
A covert emergency kit ensures you have essential tools on hand without raising suspicion. During WWII, SOE agents carried concealed kits with items like microfilm and escape tools to evade capture. Today, the stakes may differ, but the principle remains: preparedness saves lives. Whether you’re evading a checkpoint, navigating a natural disaster, or facing an unexpected detention, a discreet kit can provide the edge you need. Undertac’s E&E pocket, disguised as a waistband tag, lets you carry these tools close—always accessible, never obvious. Alternatively, our Escape & Evasion Kit includes pre-selected tools to get you started, designed to fit seamlessly into the E&E pocket.
Step 1: Selecting Your Emergency Tools
The key to a covert kit is keeping it small, lightweight, and non-metallic to avoid detection. Here’s what to include in Undertac’s E&E pocket—most of which is included in our Escape & Evasion Kit, which you can buy HERE if you like:
Handcuff Key or Shim: A universal plastic handcuff key (0.5” long) or metal shim can be a lifesaver if detained—fits easily in the pocket. Included in the Escape & Evasion Kit.
Ceramic Razor Blade: As mentioned in our “Billionaire’s Security” post, a non-metallic ceramic blade (1” long) can cut through restraints without triggering metal detectors. Included in the kit as the Ceramic Escape & Evasion Razor.
Kevlar Cord: A length of Kevlar cord (from “Escaping Illegal Restraints”) can be used as a friction saw to cut zip ties or rope—strong, thin, and discreet. The kit provides an 8ft length of Kevlar® Escape and Evasion Cord.
Diamond Coated Escape Wire: A versatile cutting tool for restraints or just about anything—part of the Escape & Evasion Kit, adding extra utility.
Micro SD Card: Store encrypted data (e.g., maps, contacts, crypto wallet seed phrase)—wrap in a plastic sleeve to protect it.
Cash: $300-$700 in $100 bills depending on your loadout—can be used for bribes or emergencies, as noted in “Origins of the Best Travel Underwear.”
Each item should fit within the E&E pocket’s dimensions (designed for small tools like handcuff keys or shims). Total weight should be under 1 oz to avoid bulging. The Escape & Evasion Kit provides a pre-assembled solution, ensuring all tools are sized for the pocket.
Step 2: Assembling the Kit in Undertac’s E&E Pocket
The E&E pocket on Undertac Infantry, Recon, or Sortie is a game-changer for tradecraft. It appears as a simple tag but can hold up to $500 or a small kit without detection. If you’re using our Escape & Evasion Kit, you’re already set—just add cash for extra preparedness. Here’s how to assemble if building your own:
Wrap Items: Use waterproof tape (e.g., gaffer’s tape) to secure items with sharp edges—prevents movement and damage. For the micro SD card, ensure it’s in a sleeve to avoid scratches.
Layer Strategically: You can place a ceramic razor blade within the $100 bills, Just fold the bottom 1/3 up, the top 1/3 down, the left 1/3 right, and the right 1/3 left. Sounds confusing, but if you fold the bill in thirds from top to bottom and left to right, a perfect compartment is formed in the center. Your key, shim, cordage, can then be placed between the money and your person, within the pocket. This way the smaller implements aren’t printing.
Secure Fit: Pack the pocket snugly—Undertac’s modal fabric (antibacterial, moisture-wicking) ensures it stays discreet, even during long wear. The pocket’s friction fit keeps items secure, but avoid handstands unless you’ve added a stitch to fasten it (as noted in “Tradecraft 101”).
Pro Tip: Wear Undertac as your base layer—modal’s durability ensures it holds up under stress, whether you’re rucking or traveling. The E&E pocket, paired with the Escape & Evasion Kit, keeps your essentials on you, not in a bag that might be confiscated.
Step 3: Using Your Kit in an Emergency
Let’s game out a scenario: You’re traveling in a volatile region, and a checkpoint turns into an unexpected detention. Your kit in the E&E pocket—or the pre-assembled Escape & Evasion Kit—can help:
Handcuff Key/Shim: If restrained, access the key by rotating the waistband (as shown in “Escaping Illegal Restraints”)—unlock handcuffs discreetly.
Ceramic Blade/Kevlar Cord/Diamond Wire: Use the blade or cord to cut through zip ties or rope—non-metallic materials evade detection during pat-downs. The diamond wire can cut through a handcuff chain, but it takes time! All included in the Escape & Evasion Kit.
Micro SD Card: Slip it into a burner phone to access encrypted maps or contacts—pre-encrypt with VeraCrypt for security.
Cash: Use your cash for a bribe or emergency transport.
Handcuff chain successfully cut using a diamond wire from The Escape & Evasion kit.
The E&E pocket ensures these tools are always on you, ready for action. Pair with Undertac’s Quick Release Ambi Fly for concealed carry ease—perfect for appendix carry in high-risk scenarios.
Step 4: Expanding Your Kit with Other Undertac Gear
Undertac’s E&E pocket isn’t just for underwear. The R&R Crew Sweatshirt and E & E Beanie feature a similar-sized pocket, ideal for larger kits, while the R & R Jogger, EDC Tee, and UrbanOps Hoodie have smaller E & E pockets for items like handcuff keys, ceramic blades, or shims. Mix and match to build a layered kit:
R&R Crew Sweatshirt: Store a backup micro SD card or additional cash in the E&E pocket—keeps essentials accessible under outer layers.
E & E Beanie: Now on Sale! Hide a ceramic blade or Kevlar cord—perfect for cold-weather missions.
UrbanOps Hoodie: Use the smaller E&E pocket for a handcuff shim—discreet and functional.
The E & E Beanie Pocket Closeup
For a complete solution, the Escape & Evasion Kit outfits you for any of these pockets, ensuring you’re prepared across your gear. Don’t leave home without it!
Why Tradecraft Matters
Tradecraft isn’t just for spies—it’s for anyone who values preparedness. Whether you’re a Special Forces operator, a traveler, or an outdoor enthusiast, a discreet emergency kit can save your life. Undertac isn’t just the best tactical underwear—it’s a survival tool, purpose-built for the toughest missions. Check out our other tradecraft posts, like “Tradecraft 101: Concealing Communications Tools,” for more skills to master.
WARNING: Anyone who carries something sharp or potentially dangerous, such as a razor, does so at their own risk. Do not attempt to store anything sharp or dangerous on your person; if so, you assume all responsibility. Sierra Whiskey Co. cannot be held liable for improper use.
Got thoughts on this topic? Want more tradecraft tips? Drop a comment below—we’d love to hear what you want to see next. Stay safe, stay prepared, and support the good guys!
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