Faraday Bags vs EMP Bags

Summary

In this video, Jesse from Survival Summit explains the difference between EMP-proof bags and Faraday bags, highlighting their decibel attenuation, use cases, and testing methods. He demonstrates how EMP bags protect devices from electromagnetic pulses, while Faraday bags block strong signals like RFID, 4G, 5G, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. Jesse also showcases backup gear including flashlights, headlamps, GPS devices, satellite phones, and solar-rechargeable power banks. He emphasizes the importance of preparedness, proper testing, and knowing reliable sources, while cautioning that high-altitude EMPs may not destroy all satellites. Various kits and individual bags are available for securing essential devices safely.

Takeaways

• 😀 EMP-proof bags and Faraday bags are designed for different levels of protection: EMP-proof bags provide 40 dB of attenuation, while Faraday bags offer 85-90 dB of attenuation.
• 😀 The NX3 Faraday bag offers stronger protection against signals like RFID, 4G, 5G, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, preventing any signal from getting in or out.
• 😀 An EMP-proof bag may block weak signals but may still allow stronger signals to pass through, making it less effective against strong electromagnetic pulses.
• 😀 Faraday bags are typically used for stronger, high-tech protection, while EMP-proof bags are more suited for general backup gear.
• 😀 The NX3 Faraday bag is highly rated and used by agencies like the FBI to protect confiscated devices from external signals.
• 😀 A high-altitude EMP (HEMP) may not take down all satellites, as many GPS and communications satellites are protected or situated at different altitudes.
• 😀 Satellite phones may still work in an EMP event, but their functionality depends on various factors like the type of EMP and satellite system used.
• 😀 Backup gear like flashlights, GPS devices, and solar-powered battery packs should be stored in EMP bags or Faraday bags for protection during an EMP event.
• 😀 When buying EMP-proof or Faraday bags, it's essential to verify specifications and ensure they meet the necessary protection standards.
• 😀 Kits of different sizes (e.g., 5-piece, 10-piece, 15-piece) are available for various electronics, with options for individual bags, so you don't have to buy a whole kit if you don’t need it.

Q & A

What is the main difference between an EMP bag and a Faraday bag?

An EMP bag typically has around 40 decibels of attenuation and is designed to protect devices from electromagnetic pulses, while a Faraday bag like the NX3 series has 85–90+ decibels of attenuation and blocks all strong signals including RFID, 4G, 5G, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth.

Can you test an EMP bag by placing a phone inside and trying to call it?

No. Testing an EMP bag this way is not valid because EMP bags are designed to protect against electromagnetic pulses, not everyday signals. Faraday bags can be tested with a phone call since they block signals.

What type of bag does Jesse recommend for everyday signal protection?

Jesse recommends the NX3 Faraday bag for everyday signal protection, as it blocks all strong signals like 4G, 5G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and RFID.

Why is it important to have both a GPS and traditional maps according to Jesse?

Because in a high-altitude EMP event, GPS satellites may still function but it's not guaranteed. Traditional maps and navigation skills provide a reliable backup.

What types of devices does Jesse keep in his EMP/Faraday kits?

Jesse keeps flashlights, headlamps, a satellite phone, GPS devices, and power banks that are solar or USB rechargeable in his kits.

What is the purpose of having a solar rechargeable power bank in the kit?

A solar rechargeable power bank ensures that essential devices like a satellite phone, GPS, or flashlight can be recharged even if the grid is down.

How does the attenuation level affect the effectiveness of a bag?

Higher attenuation means the bag blocks stronger signals more effectively. For example, NX3 bags with 85–90+ dB attenuation block nearly all signals, while EMP bags with ~40 dB attenuation are designed specifically for EMP protection and may not block all everyday signals.

Why does Jesse mention that not all satellites would be affected by an EMP?

Because satellites are in different orbits—low, medium, and high—and many are protected or resilient. A high-altitude EMP is unlikely to take out all satellites worldwide.

What caution does Jesse give about purchasing Faraday or EMP bags online?

He advises to carefully check the specifications and ensure the bags are rated for the intended protection, as not all products marketed as Faraday or EMP bags meet the same standards.

What are some of the kits Jesse offers for Faraday and EMP bags?

Jesse offers kits that include 5, 10, or 15 pieces, and also sells individual bags in different sizes so you can choose based on your needs.

Why does Jesse stress that EMP/Faraday bags are for backup gear and not everyday use?

Because in an EMP scenario, you may not know exactly what will happen, and these bags are meant to protect devices that aren’t used daily, ensuring backup functionality when needed.