The off-roader’s toolkit

Gear Editor MATTHEW STERNE looks at a new set of tools designed to tackle anything your next 4x4 adventure might throw at you

Getting stuck is often part of the adventure for off-roaders. It happens to rookies because they lack experience with difficult terrain, and it happens to experienced drivers because they push their capabilities and vehicles to the limit. But in driving, as in bank heists, what’s most important is knowing how to get out of a tricky situation.

The Lasher 4x4 Camping Kit addresses the challenges of off-roading as well as camping. I like to think of it as a toolbox for the outdoorsman. In fact, you could probably build a house from scratch with it. I couldn’t. But someone out there could.

Lasher, which has been making hand tools locally since the 1920s, has tried to cover every angle with this kit. The spade is probably the most useful tool in the arsenal. If you find yourself spinning in sand or mud, it can be used to dig a path to freedom – and to move rocks in camp, create a firepit or carry hot coals. The bow hacksaw and 900g hatchet are handy to cut branches and logs for a fire or to create a makeshift ramp to provide traction for your tyres. The machete can be used to cut long grass to firm up muddy pathways or to tackle anything that needs hacking up or slicing around camp (that includes the biltong). The crowbar will leverage rocks out of the road or campsite, and the mallet will knock in tent pegs or help to change a tyre.

Most of the gear is covered in epoxy for increased durability or has a polypropylene handle for comfort. With a combined weight of 6kg, the kit comes in a durable canvas fold-out bag, which is long and flat so it packs easily into the back of a car.

Lasher 4x4 Camping Kit, R1 500 at major retailers. lasher.co.za