Hi all.

As a person seeking advice and new to off-road, I have noticed something about the forum which may not be apparent to others.

The first question one has, if one hasn't really off-roaded before, when buying a new vehicle, particularly a stock vehicle is; What do I need to do now to get out on a trail?

I know that to join a trip I need certain things to be able to attend, but I don't have a good handle on what those things are, or actually mean.

here are some examples.

UHF radio - yes I know what this is, but a "kit yourself out" thread could suggest a good entry model, or let us know what are the commonly used models of radios. I like to get good gear, but reading about some of these radios, it seems they aren't plug and play , and require quite a bit of fooling around to get them working right.

Recovery points front and rear - These are always listed, I know what they are, but the frequency of their mention makes me question if I have it right. My Jeep Wrangler has a loop under the front, and rear bumper, that I think are recovery points. (cant check the manual right now as wife is out with Jeep) Is that sufficient, or do i need something aftermarket? Do people take cars off-road that don't come with recovery points? Is that why they are specified?

Snatch Straps - Yes, I know this one too, but some newbies might not. It is a particular thing after all.

Rated Shackles - Rated to what? I have a pair of shackles that I bought from Mitchell Bros on the eve of my fateful trip to Fraser Island. I suppose they are rated, can I check in some way? Its probably stamped on them isn't it?

There are other things off course, live axles, difflockers, unlockers - When I see this I just put it in the hardcore basket and move on, I think these things aren't so important for newbies, and when we get more experience we will naturally start learning about them.

So what I'd like to request is that you create a sort of welcome pack thread that details what people need to do in lay-mans terms to start coming out with a group. With some definitions and specific examples of the basic requirements, and throw in the grading criteria as well, C grade, B grade etc.

This stuff is probably all in the forum in places, but I cant see a one stop thread that puts it all down in easy to understand and clear terms.

Feel free to let me know if I'm talking out of my hat.