Recovery is an art form and takes a lifetime to master. I’m always learning about new techniques for different situations and, of course, the accompanying equipment necessary. However, if you’re new to the world of 4x4s or overlanding, it’s often a little overwhelming, and heading into the backcountry for the first can be daunting. Hence, when AEV (American Expedition Vehicles) announced their full-size recovery gear kits, I thought it was a great cost-effective means to ensure you’re adequately prepared for adventure, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro.
AEV, formed in the 1990s, specializes in supplying “OE-quality, performance-driven parts and accessories for vehicles geared specifically to off-road recreational driving and overland travel.” The company’s new full-size recovery gear kits are designed for off-road enthusiasts who drive heavier, full-size trucks and SUVs. They come in two options “Trail” and “Expedition” (see the useful chart below to understand the differences), providing the basics for a day out on the trail with friends or everything you need for an expedition-style adventure. Furthermore, these kits save you money versus buying all the components individually, especially when seeking out comparable quality. I think it’s a fantastic package and will ensure beginners have a solid foundation of accessories that are suitably rated for recovery should they get into trouble, whilst giving more experienced folks a tempting upgrade to their existing gear.
AEV states that the accessories are “engineered for real-world recovery situations and utilize many of the same materials, safety features, and load regulations required in commercial rigging industries.” Ultimately, safety should always come first, and it’s clear that this is one of the primary considerations with the new kits. I will add that these accessories are an excellent foundation, but for your safety and those around you, ensure you’re sufficiently experienced and educated before tackling technical terrain or attempting a recovery. Moreover, it’s important to assess your own vehicle and objectives before assuming this kit will cover all bases, whilst also recognising that to maximise use your vehicle will need to be equipped with some form of winch.
The Trail Recovery Kit covers the basics in an easily transportable package and includes a 4” AEV” recovery strap, 4-inch winch extension strap, tree strap, snatch block, two 1-inch anchor shackles, tire deflator, and gloves. Alternatively, the Expedition Recovery Kit is a more comprehensive solution for those needing a wide range of gear for more advanced recovery techniques. This kit includes an AEV kinetic recovery rope, winch extension rope, utility rope, tree strap, snatch block, two 1-inch anchor shackles, two .5-inch soft shackles, a tire deflator, and gloves. To keep these accessories organised and protected from the elements, they both include AEV’s Premium recovery bag. These bags are handmade in the USA, feature heavy-duty nylon construction, heavy-duty zippers, reinforced straps, and a plastic bottom.
I’ve been in a few recovery situations where I didn’t have the correct equipment for the job and was forced to improvise to get the truck free. However, this unpreparedness can lead to vehicle damage, or worse, accidents. Recovery needs to be taken seriously, and AEV’s full-size recovery gear kits provide owners of full-size trucks with a foundation of accessories that are thoughtfully designed, versatile, and suitably rated to the vehicle.
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