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Survival and Bushcraft Guides
Stainless Steel Stove vs. Titanium Stove: A Battle of Durability and Efficiency
Stainless Steel Stove vs. Titanium Stove: A Battle of Durability and Efficiency When it comes to outdoor adventures or even regular camping trips, having a reliable stove is essential. Two popular options that have gained attention in recent years are stainless steel stoves and titanium stoves. These sturdy cooking appliances offer durability, efficiency, and portability, making them perfect companions for outdoor cooking. Let’s get down to the nitty gritty and compare stainless steel stoves to titanium stoves across various aspects to help you make an informed decision when choosing the right stove for your needs. DURABILITY Stainless Steel Stove: Stainless steel stoves are known for their exceptional durability. They are resistant to corrosion, rust, and impact, making them suitable for rugged outdoor conditions. These stoves can withstand high temperatures and heavy use, so if you’re on the hunt for a long term solution to your cooking needs, then this is a reliable option. Titanium Stove: Titanium stoves are renowned for their strength-to-weight ratio. Titanium is incredibly lightweight while maintaining excellent durability. Although titanium can scratch easily, it is highly resistant to corrosion and rust. Titanium stoves are ideal for backpackers and minimalist campers who prioritize lightweight gear without compromising on strength. Verdict: Both stainless steel and titanium stoves excel in durability. Stainless steel stoves are more suitable for heavy-duty use, while titanium stoves offer a lightweight option for those concerned about pack weight. HEAT DISTRIBUTION Stainless Steel Stove: Stainless steel stoves tend to have good heat distribution due to their thickness and high thermal conductivity. They provide even heating across the cooking surface, ensuring that your meals are cooked consistently. Titanium Stove: Titanium stoves have lower thermal conductivity compared to stainless steel. As a result, heat distribution may be less even, and hot spots can occur on the cooking surface. Anyone who has had to deal with hot spots while trying to maintain a balance in their finished meal can attest to the frustration. However, some titanium stoves are designed with specific heat distribution features to address this issue. Verdict: Stainless steel stoves generally offer better heat distribution, ensuring your meals are cooked evenly. Titanium stoves may require a bit more attention and adjusting to achieve consistent cooking results. WEIGHT AND PORTABILITY Stainless Steel Stove: Stainless steel stoves are known for their durability but are relatively heavier compared to titanium stoves. They may not be the best choice for ultralight backpackers or hikers who prioritize reducing pack weight. For our purposes of catering to the bushcrafter, survivalist, and recreational camper, we are not entirely focused on cutting every ounce of weight that we possibly can from our packs. This fact generally makes the stainless steel stove more attractive, especially when considering price. Titanium Stove: Titanium stoves are no doubt extremely lightweight when put up against the stainless steel stove, making them an excellent choice for you lightweight backpackers and hikers who need to cut down on the weight of your gear. Their lightweight nature allows for easy transportation and reduces strain during long journeys. Verdict: Titanium stoves win in terms of weight and portability, making them the preferred option for those who prioritize lightweight gear. PRICE Stainless Steel Stove: Stainless steel stoves are generally more affordable compared to titanium stoves. They offer excellent durability and perform equally as well, making them a popular choice for you budget-conscious “gear heads” out there. Titanium Stove: Titanium stoves are typically twice as expensive due to the higher cost of the material. However, they offer the advantage of being lightweight and durable, justifying the higher price for some outdoor enthusiasts who are conscious of the weight they have to ruck around while on a trek. Verdict: Stainless steel stoves are the way to go for those looking for durability and performance in the long run without breaking the bank. Titanium stoves are pricier but offer the benefits of reduced weight and increased portability. CONCLUSION Choosing between a stainless steel stove and a titanium stove ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities. Stainless steel stoves are known for their durability, even heat distribution, and affordability, making them suitable for heavy-duty use. On the other hand, titanium stoves excel in being lightweight and resistant to corrosion. They are an excellent choice for lightweight backpackers and hikers seeking to minimize pack weight. Product Comparison Analysis VIEW: Fire Stove - Collapsible Stainless Steel Stove: 11.4oz. Packing Case: 0.08oz. Size: 5.3” x 5.3” x 6.3” Price: $29.95 VIEW: Emberlit UL Original Titanium Lightweight Backpacking Stove Titanium Stove: 6.1oz. Packing Case: 0.04oz. Size: 5.5” x 5.5” x 6” Price: $79.99
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Secure Your Property with the Booby-Trap Alarm Signaling Device: The Versatile and Reusable Perimeter Security Solution
Home security is a top priority for most homeowners, and with the increasing prevalence of trespassers and intruders, it's essential to take measures to protect your property. A booby-trap alarm signaling device is a versatile and reusable tool that can help alert you when an unwanted guest has entered your property. This perimeter security device is trip-line activated, which means that it can be easily deployed across paths and entry zones or attached to doors and gates. When the trip-line is triggered, the device fires a standard 209 shot shell primer, which produces a loud and attention-grabbing sound that can alert you to the presence of a potential intruder. The booby-trap alarm signaling device is an excellent choice for homeowners looking to protect their property, as it is both affordable and effective. The device is easy to install and can be used in a variety of settings, including outdoor patios, sheds, and garages. One of the great benefits of this device is its versatility. It can be easily moved and reused as needed, making it an ideal choice for homeowners who want to make an investment in home security. Whether you are looking to secure a large space or just a small area around your home, this device can be tailored to fit your needs. It's worth noting that the device requires a standard 209 shot shell primer to function correctly. These primers are readily available at gun shops for around 15 cents each, and we recommend the CCI Magnum brand for the best results. If you plan on using the device in wet or humid conditions, it's essential to seal the primer using clear nail polish to ensure reliable operation. While the booby-trap alarm signaling device is an effective tool for detecting intruders, it's essential to remember that it is only one part of a home security plan that involves more comprehensive gear. Other measures, such as security cameras, motion sensors, and high-quality locks, should also be employed to ensure maximum protection. The alarm signaling device will be a noisy alert that somebody has come within alarming distance of your property. In conclusion, the alarm signaling device is an affordable and versatile tool that can help alert you when an intruder has entered your property. It's easy to install and can be used in a setting that suits your needs, making it an ideal choice for homeowners looking to maximize their investment in home security. If you are looking for a reliable and effective way to protect your property, consider investing in a booby-trap alarm signaling device. Trespassers will think twice before coming anywhere near your doors or windows. Key Specifications Solidly constructed from machined aluminum and steel Weight: 1.3 oz. Color: Black Made in the USA by FITH Ops. WATCH: Protect Your Shelter From Intruders – Alarm Signaling Device – Full Setup Tutorial
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How to Secretly Carry Everyday Items for Escape and Evasion - Top 6 Items We Recommend
Knowing how to carry everyday items on your person can be a valuable skill when it comes to escaping illegal restraints and unlawful detention. By taking certain precautions, you can make sure you are always prepared in case of an emergency. Here are some tips and tricks on how to secretly carry everyday items for escape and evasion. Don’t forget to read the important notice at the bottom of this article about the latest kidnapping of Americans in Mexico on March 6th, 2023. YOU are your own first line of defense. Strongly consider the tools and information below to provide yourself with a chance of survival. Carry Concealed Items on Your Person When carrying concealed items on your person, you should always look for ways to conceal them in plain sight. This includes: Wearing clothing with multiple pockets or compartments Keeping small items tucked away, or even wearing jewelry that contains hidden compartments Practicing good situational awareness and staying aware of your surroundings at all times Using distraction tactics like pretending to tie your shoe or adjusting a piece of clothing so you can discreetly retrieve the item without anyone being aware of what is going on Keep Personal Items In Your Car Or Bag If you are unable to carry certain items directly on your person, another option is to keep them in an easily accessible spot such as your car or bag. This way, if you need access to the item quickly, it will already be within reach. Just make sure that whatever method you choose is secure enough so that anyone who is looking for it won't be able to get their hands on it easily. Additionally, try and keep any escape tools out of sight so as not to draw attention from potential onlookers. Research Laws And Regulations For Each Country/State/Region It's important to familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations of each country/state/region before attempting any escape methods as some states have specific laws prohibiting certain activities related to evasion techniques or tools used for escape purposes. If possible, try and research these laws ahead of time so you know what is legal in each area before attempting anything that could potentially land you in trouble with the law enforcement authorities. Top 6 Recommended Escape and Evasion Tools For Everyday Carry MICRO-CLIP HANDCUFF KEY - Want to keep your emergency tool discreetly on hand? You can secure it in a variety of locations, such as the belt loop, cuff of a long-sleeve shirt, waistband or even top of your sock! Thanks to its tiny size and low profile design there's almost no chance anyone will know it's with you—but ready for use when needed. CACHE CAP™ BY WAZOO SURVIVAL GEAR - Trade in your classic baseball cap for a special upgrade. The unique Cache Cap™ features 6 secret pockets tucked away discreetly on the inside, giving you more storage and convenience than ever before! HIP POCKET BRIEF VOLUME 2 - TACTICS, TECHNIQUES, AND PROCEDURES FOR THE EVERYDAY CIVILIAN - With The Hip Pocket Brief, you can stay prepared and safe with forty 30-second lessons providing concise training on essential security topics. From self defense to cyber safety, target hardening to nonverbal communication - learn valuable skills while traveling or at home. THIS IS A NEW FAVORITE OF OURS! ALARM SIGNALING DEVICE - Protect your property with the booby-trap Alarm Signaling Device. This rugged security tool will sound a warning when unwanted intruders set foot on your land, thanks to its versatile trip-line activation system. Instantly alerting you of any suspicious activity around doors and gates, it fires off an unmistakable 209 shot shell primer blast if triggered - keeping trespassers at bay! WAZOO EVERYDAY ESSENTIALS KIT - The Everyday Essentials Kit is the perfect combination of convenience and quality. This 15 tool survival kit was specially designed to fit into your Cache Belt™ and Cache Cap™, so you never have to sacrifice on reliability or portability. Filled with custom-made components that cannot be found anywhere else, this carefully assembled collection ensures top-notch performance for any situation – no matter where life takes you! WAZOO CACHE BELT™ - The Cache Belt features a top-loading Velcro enclosure that allows direct access to items, at any point along with the Velcro pocket, while wearing the belt. The hook & loop closure reassures that the Velcro has no single failure point. This belt is ideal for most of your EDC tools for E&E and fits all kinds of handcuff keys, Kevlar cord, the Escape Stick, and Wazoo even has custom made kits for these belts such as the Essentials Kit mentioned above and their Adventure Kit. Your possibilities are endless and most importantly, discreet! WATCH: Discover The Best Covert Handcuff Keys On The MarketWith a few simple precautions and by utilizing common sense practices, carrying everyday items for escape and evasion can be done successfully without drawing attention or suspicion from others around you. Also, with the right knowledge and preparation beforehand you will be better equipped if ever faced with an emergency situation requiring swift action or quick thinking skills. READ:Mexico kidnapping was ‘Difficult to Prevent’ despite known dangers in border regionsDo yourself a favor and watch the video in the link above. The article itself offers conflicting perspectives as to the reason why these four Americans were targeted. Two of the Americans were killed immediately, which was most likely to send the message from the start that the Gulf Cartel performing the kidnappings were not messing around. The other two Americans were taken hostage and held captive. Being restrained and held against one's own will is far from a feeling of comfort. Give yourself the best chance at survival that you can by taking a few hours to watch a training video on the methods and procedures of Escape & Evasion, and picking up a couple of affordable, simple-to-use, and easy-to-hide tools to ensure that you have the greatest chance at protecting yourself and your loved ones against unlawful restraint and imprisonment. Always remember: Knowledge is Power!
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JASE Medical Emergency Antibiotics
The Jase Case is a compact and convenient medical kit containing five varied antibiotics that are ideal for emergency preparedness. These drugs have been carefully selected to provide coverage for a broad range of medical problems and life-threatening conditions, including traveler’s diarrhea, bladder infections, pneumonia, anthrax poisoning, and wound infections.
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The Dangers of Owning an Electric Vehicle in a Winter State
Electric vehicles are not only bad for the environment, but can be dangerous during a winter storm. An electric vehicle owner in Virginia learned firsthand how dangerous owning one can be during the recent winter storms leading up to Christmas. In accordance with Domenik Nati, a radio host based in Lynchburg Virginia who has more than 100,000 views, he attempted to charge his vehicle at home but received a warning that the battery would need to be heated up for some time. In the video, Nati said he was unable to charge the car at home so he drove it to a Tesla Supercharger station. After plugging it in, he received another warning that the battery was heating and that it would need some time to cool down. After two hours, there had been no change, so Nati contacted customer service. The car may have been left unplugged overnight at his residence, which was one possible mistake. In order to keep the car warm on cold nights, it is recommended leaving it plugged in, as instructed by the Tesla owner's manual. The car's batteries will charge more slowly if they are cold, but if they are charged overnight, they should have a decent range by morning. In addition, I made the mistake of expecting the car battery to warm up quickly. Bloomberg stated that the process takes some time. Several people were found dead in their neighborhoods during the storm, and although not all were caused by an electric vehicle, it is safe to conclude that being prepared for such situations is essential, and a vehicle that does not work in extreme cold is not working towards your advantage. There are problems that can arise from a gas-powered vehicle. Nevertheless, most people who practice preparation and survival today are viewed as extreme, so it is essential not to add even more barriers to your preparation. A person with a gas powered or electric vehicle should always have a bug out/in plan and be prepared to face mother nature head on with all the necessary resources.
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What Are The Global Elite Planning Next?
The National Institutes of Health report that the United States government has been stocking up on a radiation sickness drug worth $290 million - but is this really for our own health and safety, or is it for some other purpose? There was a general belief that the large purchase was due to the threat of a nuclear war between Russia and Ukraine. Nplate aims to improve clotting as well as to prevent hemorrhaging and reduce radiation-induced bleeding, but was its development really only a coincidence? The same agencies and individuals who funded the Wuhan lab that "accidentally" released Covid-19 are behind Nplate. Is it possible that they have knowledge that we do not have? As part of Project BioShield, Amgen developed Nplate, the trade name for romiplostim, to treat injured blood cells due to acute radiation syndrome. The FDA approved this innovative drug in 2008 and again in 2021 for the treatment of immune thrombocytopenia - an autoimmune disorder resulting in bleeding. The development of Nplate has been supported with substantial funding by government agencies such as BARDA (Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority) since the start of Project Bioshield 2004. As preppers and survivalists, it is always important to be prepared and ready for anything. This recent action by the federal government emphasizes the need for everyone to be prepared for what is next to affect day-to-day life in the western world.
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Survivor's Tale of Pearl Harbor Remembrance
In the 82nd year since Pearl Harbor, we honor the memory of those who lost their lives in that devastating attack. There is much history in the survival world, and Pearl Harbor is no different. After surviving the bombing at Pearl Harbor on December 7th, 1941, Lou Conter was accepted into a flight training program after a story of courage, resilience, and determination is featured in this issue of the Associate Press. As an instructor during World War II, he maintained a watch for submarines and bombed enemy targets with Navy PBY patrol bombers. He flew night-time missions in a squadron known as the 'Black Cats', flying in black-painted planes. It's no wonder he was nicknamed the 'Lucky Lou' of the group with over 200 combat missions under his belt. In 1943, Conter and his crew were shot down near New Guinea. Nevertheless, Conter assured them that panicking would lead to their failure. They were saved by an airplane dropping them off at a lifeboat hours later, despite things looking dire at first. In the midst of sharks swimming nearby, he calmly remarked, "Don't ever panic." Survival has been proven time and time again by keeping your head up. During the 1950s, he made history by becoming one of the very first SERE officers in the Navy. His lessons proved invaluable to pilots and crew members during Vietnam during which they were captured by enemy forces. Their priceless knowledge helped them survive during those difficult years, saving countless lives.
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September National Preparedness Month FREE Gear Checklist
Survival Gear: Bushcraft & Survival Outfitters September is National Preparedness Month! GEAR CHECKLIST Come Visit Us at SurvivalGear.us Today! FIRST AID The #1 skill set you must have under any circumstance is the ability to self-rescue. If you cannot stop a serious bleed or properly clean a wound, then it doesn’t matter how much food, fire starting methods, water purification methods or cool EDC gear you have in your pack or on your person. All that great stuff won’t do you much good if you’ve bled out in a matter of minutes from an accidental slip of your blade. When deciding which equipment, you want to go with you’ll want to look for a quality and reputable stamp on your gear – North American Rescue is a staple in the industry, and they even supply the US military with all of their first aid needs. Another great company is Adventure Medical Kits. So, let’s have a look at some of the most commonly found products when it comes to first aid. CAT (Combat Application Tourniquet) by North American Rescue Quik Clot Alcohol prep pads, or iodine swabs Compressed gauze Butterfly bandages Triangle bandage CUTTING TOOLS There are a billion different types of knives out there, so how do we narrow it down to a basic one or two? The knife is your most valuable tool. Provided you have the training and skill set, you could potentially survive in the wilderness indefinitely. However, most of us have not yet acquired that level of skill, so our suggestion is to get your hands on a quality fixed blade knife. A back-up fixed blade never hurts, but you’ll also want to include a folding pocketknife for those simple tasks. In addition to your knives, you’ll want to carry a reliable folding saw and a quality hatchet. Fixed blade knife: Preferably 1095 high carbon steel with sharp 90-degree spine. Professional’s Choices: Mora Garberg Carbon, or Condor Terrasaur Folding knife with pocket clip Folding saw Professional’s Choice: Silky GomBoy or Silky PocketBoy Hatchet (preferably under 27” in length) CONTAINERS The market is flooded with water containers of all sorts, sizes, and materials. For our purposes, as survivalists/bushcrafters/outdoors people, we want to stick with either Stainless Steel or Titanium. Titanium is very lightweight and durable, but you'll pay a premium for cutting down on the weight in your pack. Personally, I began slowly converting my containers over to titanium almost a year ago simply to cut down on the weight I'm humping in my rucksack. I still have plenty of stainless steel gear and there's nothing wrong with that! When it comes to stainless steel, you'll want to keep an eye out for single walled containers. A single walled canteen, for instance, will give you the ability to cook within the container. Stainless Steel, single-walled canteen Professional’s Choice: Klean Kanteen 40oz. Stainless Steel Canteen Collapsible water container (back up) Hydration backpack or a 2L-3L hydration reservoir WATER PURIFICATION In addition to your water container you'll want to carry a method for purifying your water should boiling your water not be an option, or not be the most convenient option. For the love of all that's holy, please do not rely on a LifeStraw! Get yourself a high quality purification system, for "he who stays hydrated the longest wins", as I like to say. The Grayl GeoPress is a great source for ridding your water of viruses, bacteria, and protozoan cysts. The last thing you want to end up with is a nasty case of giardia because it will dehydrate you at an incredible rate once the symptoms kick in, which takes a few days once the contaminated water is ingested. Carrying a GeoPress may not be optimal for some of you who are concerned with saving space in your pack. Fear not! The Sawyer Mini is very small, foldable, and weighs only 1.4oz. total. The MINI is rated for 100,000 gallons of water, comes with a filter, 16oz. bag, syringe for back flushing, and a straw. The MINI filter removes 7 log (99.99999%) of all bacteria (like salmonella) as well as other harmful bacteria which causes cholera and E. coli and 6 log (99.9999%) of all protozoa such as giardia and cryptosporidium. These removal rates equal or exceed other filter options. EPA guidelines allow ten times more protozoa left in the water than Sawyer MINI filters allow. The MINI also filters out 100% of microplastics. Professional’s Choice #1: Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System or Grayl GeoPress COTTON CLOTH The uses for a simple cotton cloth are endless! Typically, we want to go with a 42"x42" cotton Shemagh, which is also known as a scarf. A shemagh can be used for water filtration, first aid arm sling or tourniquet, foraging, etc. Some people opt for an orange cloth so that they can use it as a bright-colored signaling device in times of need. Others prefer the earth tones such as coyote tan, olive drab green, or even black. Cotton shemagh: Orange for emergency rescue signaling Black, Coyote Tan or OD Green for concealment COMBUSTION DEVICES (FIRE SOURCE) There's no way around it - being able to produce fire is an absolute MUST. With fire comes the ability to warm ones' self, purify water, cook food, and even signal for rescue. The skill set needed to produce a primitive friction fire is something that must be practiced time and time again in order to be absolutely sure that one is able to reproduce the end result in nearly any condition that Mother Nature can throw at you. It is FAR from easy. Ideally, we want to be carrying some modern methods of obtaining that spark that we so desperately need. Here's what we recommend you carry on you at all times. Classic BIC lighter Waterproof case for BIC lighter We recommend the FireSLEEVE by Exotac Large ferro rod between 4”-6” in length, ½” in diameter *We do NOT recommend magnesium rods Professional’s Choice: Exotac FireROD XL CORDAGE Cordage comes in handy in any survival situation. You may need to run a ridgeline for your makeshift shelter, you may need to make a bowdrill kit should your modern methods for fire fail you, or you may need to run a trotline for passive food procurement. Whatever the event might be, make sure you throw a 100' bundle of paracord or bankline in your pack. You won't regret it! Paracord 550, 7-strand (100 feet minimum is recommended) #12 bankline or #36 tared bankline COMPASS (NAVIGATION TOOLS) Welcome to the most overlooked and underrated survival skill! Do you really know which way North is? Is it True North, or Magnetic North? Ever heard of Lateral Drift? If there's one skill that most people breeze right over it's navigation. Don't allow yourself to get lost in the woods because it will be far more difficult to get back on track than you think. Choose a either a lensatic compass, or a compass with a mirror that is made by a reputable manufacturer, such as Suunto or Cammenga. Professional’s Choice: Suunto MC-2G Global Navigator SIGNALING DEVICES FOR EMERGENCY RESCUE If someone is out searching for you, or a team of people are out searching for you should you get lost (refer to navigation here), then why not have a 'force multiplier' in your kit? Make it easy for yourself to be noticed because some of those teams might be searching via helicopter or drone. Make yourself stand out from the earth tones that blanket the wilderness. We discussed a signal fire and an orange shemagh, but you'll also want to carry a very small and lightweight tool that you can use to reflect the sunlight in the direction of your SAR Team. Signaling mirror – SOL Signal Mirror LIGHT SOURCE We all know the famous saying, "...the light at the end of the tunnel." What happens when we see that light at the end of the tunnel? We follow it! Light guides the way for us as a species, but when there is no natural light to be found we must rely on synthetic light sources. When we find ourselves in "the bush", we want to have every available option open to us. Particularly when it comes to our functionality - most of us have two hands and we want to keep them free from obligation as often as possible. This is why we recommend that your first candling device choice be a headlamp. Personally, I love Nitecore, but if I use my Nitecore candling devices I always keep 4 spare 18650 batteries charged for that particular manufacturer at all times. If I'm in a dire situation, or I plan on being out in the bush for quite some time, then I'll opt for one of the Princeton Tec headlamps. They take AA batteries, which are readily available in pretty much every country on the planet. Headlamp with spare batteries. Professional’s Choice: Princeton Tec Apex 650/550 Flashlight with spare batteries. Always carry a backup light source that you can fall back on should disaster eliminate your primary candling source. Professional’s Choice: 5.11 Tactical Rapid L2 Flashlight TINDER SOURCE Black Beard Fire Stick, Campcraft Fire Kit, fatwood shavings or splinters, UST WetFire, or even a nice big handful of compacted dryer lint will do the trick. Pro Tip: Keep your tinder sources inside a waterproof container, dry bag, or double up on your Ziploc baggies. Your tinder source is only as good as how dry it is! Professional's Choices: BASIC - Black Beard Fire Stick COMPREHENSIVE – Campcraft Fire Kit CLOTHING Your first layer of defense is your clothing choice, so as they say, “Choose, but choose wisely.” Go with a reputable clothing line that makes clothes specifically for the environmental challenges that you might face. If your budget does not allow for some of the higher end clothing lines, then get yourself a quality poncho. Shoot for a poncho that is larger is size and preferably has snap closures and hollow grommets in all four corners. This allows you unsnap the poncho on either side and use the hollow grommets as tie-off points for your paracord in order to fashion up a quick tarp shelter if the situation calls for such measures. Professional’s Choice: Fjallraven outdoor clothing is optimal. Manufactured in Sweden, this company offers tons of options for a variety of geographical environments nearly anywhere on the planet. They make everything from pants & shirt, to backpacks, tents and wallets. As one of our professionals and they’ll be happy to help set you up with your needs. EDC AND COVERT GEAR Every Day Carry items are different for each individual. Your EDC might include your wallet, phone, car/house keys, pocketknife, Chapstick, sidearm & spare magazines, covert lock picking equipment, etc. Sky is the limit here. If you practice Gray Man Theory, then you want to carry your necessary gear without drawing attention to yourself. That’s where Wazoo Survival Gear comes in. These guys make some of the best gear in the industry. Check out their product line right on our website. Professional’s Choices: Wazoo Survival Gear Cache Cap and Cache Belt CONCLUSION The world of gear options is a vast ocean with no end in sight and there is never a shortage of new and improved equipment hitting the market each year. Whether it comes to your survival, or your comfort you’ll want to make most educated decision that you possibly can for yourself and your loved ones. Many of you out there are just getting started and need some guidance on where to turn. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your local outdoors retailer, join a Facebook Group, read blogs and guides like this one, or simply pick up the phone and call the retailer of your choice. Most ecommerce stores these days do not offer phone support, so shoot them over an email. We’re one of the few retailers out there that offers phone support with professional survivalists on our team who are more than willing to help you make the best choice you can! Until next time…We’ll See You in the Wild!!!
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How Clean Is My Water, Really?!
PFAS and Contaminated Rain Water According to a recent study conducted by the University of Stockholm, researchers have found PFAS in every sample of rainwater on earth, including Antarctica, which renders rainwater unsafe for humans to drink…anywhere on earth. Let me guess - right now you’re asking yourself, “What are PFAS?!” FEAR NOT!!! This blog will help you gain a better understanding of PFAS, the complications of these chemicals, and how to properly clean your water before consumption. What Are PFAS? PFAS (per and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a class of man-made chemicals that have been used as repellents in a multitude of different manufacturing processes since the 1940’s. Nearly every industry has incorporated these PFAS for decades - including food packaging, carpet, upholstery, clothing, cookware, and firefighting foam, electronics, furniture, etc. PFAS can enter the environment through industrial emissions, leaching from PFAS-containing products, and sewage overflows. The chemical bonds in these components are valued for their abilities to resist degradation, which is where their properties become of importance to major manufacturers across the globe. However, in the early 2000’s a number of these PFAS became banned in the production processes in the US, but the damage had already been done. Manufacturers overseas are still using these chemicals and so we still must be cognisant of the dangers that may still be present. How Do PFAS Get Into Our Water? PFAS find their way into our drinking water from soil to groundwater, or surface water. Your hot zones for PFAS contamination will be near manufacturing facilities. Ever seen the movie Erin Brockovich? Start thinking in that direction and you’re pretty much on track. A few other big areas where you might find these ‘forever chemicals’, as they’re often referred to, can be firefighter training centers (foam for training), airports and military bases. The term ‘forever chemical’ is used to describe the PFAS because it takes around four years for these compounds to break down and be excreted from the human body. What Is The PFAS Danger Level, and How Do I Know If My Water Is Contaminated? According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the maximum safe level of PFAS should be no greater than 70 PPT (Parts Per Trillion). It is notable to mention that, although this health advisory is meant to educate both the public and state health officials, it is not enforceable. The simplest way to know if/how contaminated your water is to contact your local water municipality to request the latest test results. Municipal water facilities test their water frequently, and they are required by law to share those test results when a request has been made. To take it another step, you can also contact a state certified laboratory to submit a sample of your water for further testing. If you are on well water, then the responsibility is in your hands to clean your own water. Since PFAS are odorless and tasteless, testing is the only method for which you can obtain the results. Think that you’re in the clear if you choose to go with bottled water? Think again! Yes, unfortunately, PFAS have been detected in bottled water and canned carbonated water. A recent study by Consumer Reports found that most bottled and canned water have detectable levels of PFAS, but only nine brands had levels over 1 part per trillion (PPT). Of the nine brands with levels over 1 PPT, two produce still water and seven produce carbonated water. The study tested 47 brands of bottled and canned water. The results of the study are concerning because PFAS have been linked to various health problems, including cancer. However, it is important to note that the levels of PFAS detected in the water were generally low. Nevertheless, the findings of the study suggest that more needs to be done to reduce the presence of PFAS in our environment. What Kind of Health Risks Do PFAS Carry? The health effects of PFAS exposure vary depending on the individual, but can include reproductive, developmental, and immunological problems. Since PFAS don’t easily break down and can accumulate in the human body, the more exposure a person has, the greater the chance of negative health effects. The EPA has cited evidence linking PFAS exposure to increased cholesterol levels, suppressed immune system function, thyroid hormone disruption, liver and kidney damage, low infant birth weight, and cancer. While more research is needed to fully understand the potential health effects of PFAS exposure, it is clear that there is a potential for serious health problems associated with these chemicals. How do I Remove PFAS From My Water? As a rule of thumb, we’re all familiar with the standard - boil for 5 minutes just to be sure. consumption. Despite what you may have heard, boiling water does not remove PFAS. In fact, heat does not break down PFAS, and instead concentrates the chemicals and renders them more dangerous if ingested. While boiling water may remove some impurities, it will not remove PFAS. Some methods for reducing PFAS in drinking water include treatment with activated carbon filters or reverse osmosis filters. Reverse Osmosis A reverse osmosis (RO) system uses pressure to push unfiltered water through a semipermeable membrane. The membrane has small pores that block contaminants, such as PFAS, but allow clean water to flow through to the other side. As a result, RO systems are one of the most effective ways to remove contaminants from water. In addition to being highly effective, RO systems are also compact and easy to operate. As such, they are a popular choice for both residential and commercial applications. If you are looking for a comprehensive water treatment solution, a reverse osmosis system is an excellent option to consider. Activated Carbon Filtration Activated carbon filtration is an effective way to remove contaminants from water, including PFAS. Carbon filters contain activated carbon that has an abundance of pores along its surface and infrastructure. When water runs through the activated carbon, PFAS and other contaminants are captured or altered by a process called adsorption. As a result, clean water emerges on the other side. Activated carbon filtration is a popular choice for drinking water filtration because it is highly effective and relatively affordable. In addition, activated carbon filters do not require electricity to operate, making them an appealing option for those who live in rural areas or off the grid. Ion Exchange Ion exchange water treatment systems are an important tool in the fight against PFAS contamination. These systems work by exchanging ions with a similar charge, which helps to remove PFAS and other contaminants from water. Ion exchange systems can be used to treat both surface water and groundwater, making them an essential part of any water treatment plan. In addition to removing contaminants, ion exchange systems can also help to improve the taste and smell of water. This makes them an ideal solution for communities that are concerned about their water quality. Final Words Everyone’s situation can present its own challenges. If you’re searching for a filter for your home water system, then you’ll want to consider a RO filter. These filters are generally a bit larger, more expensive, and that’s simply because they rely upon multiple stages for the process to be complete - around four or five stages. Don’t risk the safety of your family and loved ones - invest in a system that you know can take care of the job. If you’re on the move, then you’ll want to invest in a quality carbon filtering system. These systems are generally more affordable and can be transported with the greatest of ease. We highly recommend the GeoPress by Grayl. The GeoPress is a widely used personal filter that has taken the survival, bushcraft, and preparedness industries by storm since hitting the scene a few years ago. If you haven’t heard of Grayl, then don’t sell yourself short - check them out today!
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Bushcraft Skills - How to Start a Fire From Scratch
A fire is a survivalist’s protector. Capable of providing heat, light, and shelter, knowing how to start a fire can greatly increase your chances of survival. Not only that, it’s a general life skill that can be used outside of the wilderness. If you want to increase your bushcraft skills, it may be time to see if you’re up to starting a fire from scratch. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced survivalist, here’s an official guide to start fires when you don’t have access to a lighter or match. Before You Start Before you try to start a fire from the beginning, it’s important to understand the process that leads up to it. For example, there are two main types of fire sources: urban, primary fire starters and survival sources. Primary fire starters refer to man made tools like matches and lighters. If you’re still a beginner, this is the best place to start. More advanced survivalists may challenge themselves with the second option. Even so, beginners should start teaching themselves how to create a fire from scratch the moment they master fire starting with matches. Sometimes, the wilderness doesn’t give you a choice. In an emergency situation, knowing how to start a fire with your bare hands may save your life. Flame Sources Once you’ve decided how you’re going to start your fire, it’s time to narrow down your options. This will change depending on your materials, surroundings, and experience level. Generally speaking, starting a fire without matches or lighters will automatically make things more difficult. Even so, a fire doesn’t have to be fancy, it just needs to be useful. When starting a fire from scratch, the goal is to generate enough heat to create a small coal or ember. Add tinder, and you’ve got yourself a fire! Fire Starters As mentioned previously, urban fire starters generally refer to lighters and matches. These do most of the work by producing a flame or coal for you. You’ll still need to gather materials to start the fire, but you won’t need to worry about producing a flame. Sparks As the name suggests, a flame is produced by projecting sparks, usually caused by colliding with another object. Creating fires out of sparks can be done with flint, rocks, and batteries paired with wool. Friction If you’ve ever had a rope burn, you’ve experienced the effects of friction. Friction occurs when heat is generated by the repetitive and precise movement of two objects rubbing against each other. To create a fire using friction, rub wood against each other using a hand drill, plow, or a bow. Sun Using sunlight to create a fire is a less reliable method, but it can work if you happen to be at the right place at the right time. Using the proper materials, you can concentrate the sunlight to cultivate enough heat to produce a flame. Chemicals If you’re attempting to create a fire with the least amount of urban tools necessary, you may not ever need chemicals. Even with traditional camping, chemicals are the least used source of fire because of safety hazards that come with handling the materials. If they were used, flames would be produced by mixing chemicals that combust upon interaction with one another. Prep Order Once you’ve decided how to produce the flame, the work begins. Generally speaking, building a fire will take up most of your time. With that in mind, try to plan your days accordingly based on weather conditions, the time of day, and temperature. When creating your fire from scratch, focus your efforts on setting it up over lighting the flame. 1. Tinder Unfortunately, you won’t be able to create a fire from a large piece of firewood. It’s best to start off small and work your way up. To begin, start gathering bits of tinder. These should be dry, small pieces of material that help fuel your fire. If you’re on a bushcraft trip, you’ll need to rely on the resources around you. Natural tinder can include the following: Grass Leftover fibers (i.e. dryer lint in your pockets) Abandoned birds nests Small, fibrous bark Miscellaneous dry weeds Leftover rope Tiny, dead wood (preferably wood shavings) 2. Kindling Kindling is the next phase of fire starting. Once you’ve gathered all your tinder, it’s time to begin searching for medium sized branches or twigs. Try to search for wood that’s dry and soft, no more than the size of a pencil. Use your knife to carve off the top layer of the branches. This will allow the fire to catch the dry, innermost part of the wood. 3. Wood Contrary to popular belief, you shouldn’t resort to large pieces of wood immediately upon flame ignition. Start by slowly increasing the size of your kindling to branches that are just about the size of your forearm. From there, start making your up in wood size using an axe. If your fire is starting at a comfortable rate, continue adding bits of dry wood to keep it going.
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7 Bushcraft Tools For Extended Trips
With the amount of resources available for survivalists, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed by your choices. For people mastering bushcraft skills, it can be even more difficult to ride the line between natural materials and urban resources. When should you go for something more urban and what can be easily found in the wilderness? To help survivalists of all levels, we’ve narrowed down a few of our favorite tools to make sure you feel as prepared as possible. Knife An extremely advanced survivalist could successfully survive in the woods with a knife on its own. In most cases, your knife would be one of many tools you’d bring along on your trip. A knife is arguably the most important tool you can have for a bushcraft trip, especially if you plan to survive for more than a few weeks. If you have to choose between an axe and a knife, always choose the knife. Why is a knife so useful? For one thing, it can help you craft more tools out of natural resources. Knives can also be used for meal preparation, shelter building, and starting a fire. These are just a few of the many ways knives can be utilized for bushcraft. If there’s a way to use a knife, there probably is. Never forget to bring your knife on a bushcraft trip, it could potentially save your life. Water Filter The human body can only last three days without water, and you won’t have access to any clean sources of hydration. It’s never a good idea to risk drinking natural water without filtering and purifying residual contaminants. Even clear, mountain water can contain bacteria or parasites that will wreak havoc on your body. While there are ways to use bushcraft skills to purify and filter water, it’s okay if you want to use some urban tools to prevent the risk of ingesting contaminated water. There are many portable water filters and purification tablets that will help you make sure every drop you drink is clean and free of contaminants. This is especially convenient if you can’t or shouldn’t start a fire for boiling water. Axe If you have the ability to bring an axe along, they can be extremely useful. An axe can be especially helpful if you plan to construct a long-term shelter. They can split and cut firewood along with materials for your shelter. Axes can also be used for hunting if you prefer to trap or hunt for game. When it comes to choosing a bushcraft axe, it doesn’t have to be long or fancy. Try to search for lighter, smaller axes that will be easy to carry and user friendly. Be sure to choose a blade that’s sharp enough to last consistent use. Compass Even the most experienced survivalists can lose their way through the wilderness. If you know the area well, you may never need to use one. Even so, it never hurts to carry one with you at all times. If you have to use it, you’ll have a form of navigation that doesn’t require you to rely on GPS. Make sure you buy a compass that’s well-built, durable, and performative. Pair your compass with a water resistant, tear proof map that covers at least a 50 mile radius. Before you go on any bushcraft expedition, always research the area ahead of time. Tarp If you want to avoid using as little urban tools as possible, at least substitute your tent for a tarp. Even a makeshift shelter out of branches and moss may need a little extra support. Not only that, a good tarp can have many uses outside of shelter building. You can lay it out to prep food, protect your gear from the elements, and keep yourself dry during wet weather. Fishing Kit If you’re a survivalist that enjoys fishing for nutrition, a kit will definitely come in handy. Even if you don’t intend to fish, a small, travel-sized kit is never a bad idea to carry for emergencies. If you don’t know how to hunt, fishing is a more accessible skill that provides more nutritious food during an emergency. A kit doesn’t have to be large. When it comes to bushcraft, the smaller and more compact, the better. Your kit should contain at least a few extra lines and fish hooks. If you don’t have a fishing rod, use your knife to create a makeshift tool and pair it with your kit. Knife Sharpener It’s very important to maintain your bladed tools when using them consistently. Wear and tear may prematurely damage your blades, rendering them useless. Part of knowing how to use bladed tools is also knowing how to take care of them. One of the ways you can do this is by carrying a knife sharpener or whetstone. Regularly sharpening and cleaning your blades will keep them strong and durable over the course of your trip, which is essential for survival.
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Advanced Bushcraft Skills For Experienced Survivalists
Knowing general bushcraft skills is an amazing accomplishment on its own. Yet, there are skills that go far beyond fire starting. If you’ve mastered bushcraft skills for years, you may be interested in challenging yourself. With that in mind, don’t attempt any of these skills without lots of practice outside of the wilderness. Here are some bushcrafts skills for the most advanced survivalists. Fishing Bushcraft angling goes far beyond catching fish. Sometimes, bushcraft fishing means making a rod using natural materials and a basic fishing kit for extra necessities. Done correctly, a survivalist can successfully catch a fish using only a hook, line, and traps. Some people go a step beyond that by solely relying on natural resources, but that should be reserved for the most experienced survivalists. Overall, fishing is a helpful skill that can provide powerful nutrition in case of emergencies. Hunting and Cleaning Game Similar to fishing, knowing how to hunt can provide a much more filling source of food if you don’t want to rely on foraging. With that said, hunting is not required to survive in the wilderness and should be reserved for those who want to take their skills to the next level. If you’d like to learn how to hunt, it’s important to research everything you can beforehand to avoid making risky decisions. Camouflage If you’ve ever watched a nature documentary, you may have seen animals like chameleons who hide in plain sight. Despite what it may seem, humans are just as capable of using camouflage. This doesn't mean buying pre-made camouflage equipment, this means creating your own based on what you already have. In a true survival situation, you wouldn’t always be prepared with camouflage outfits, so it’s good to know how to blend in using natural resources. Trapping Trapping goes well with fishing and hunting, making it a specialized skill for the most ambitious survivalists. You can learn how to set up different kinds of traps depending on the animal you’re hunting. The difference between hunting and trapping has to do with energy and attention. Trapping is much more stealthy and takes less energy, a precious commodity in the wilderness. In dire situations, knowing how to make snares and traps could save a life. Tracking Unlike wild animals, humans have not needed to use stealth for a very long time. Aside from “fight or flight,” many of our natural instincts have dissipated over time, and tracking is one of them. Thus, tracking is a skill that must be mastered by relearning it. This means identifying footprints, overturned rocks, and torn branches. Tracking can even be helpful for identifying sources of water since you’ll become hyper aware of your surroundings. Advanced Shelter Building Once you’ve mastered basic shelter building skills, consider taking it a step further. There are plenty of ways to utilize urban tools like tarps and paracord, but try to research ways to make shelters out of nothing but natural materials. This would mean making your own rope, constructing a roof out of wood, or using nearby branches and moss. It may seem simple, but it takes more expertise than you’ll realize. Tool Crafting Bushcraft can get very advanced, even down to the tools you use. For survivalists who feel up to the challenge, learning how to make your own tools with nothing but the materials around you can be a very difficult task. These tools can be utilized with some of your other skills like hunting, fishing, and shelter building. Some examples of common survival tools that can be made by hand include snares, bow and arrows, and traps. Handcrafted Rope Making your own rope isn’t required for bushcraft. Many survivalists feel comfortable using paracords and pre-ordered rope. But, if you feel experienced enough to take it to another level, you can make your own rope by hand. We only recommend this for the most experienced survivalists and strongly suggest you practice making ropes at home before attempting to go into the wilderness without it. With that said, if you can make a rope using nothing but plants and greenery, that is a celebratory accomplishment. Bladed Tool Maintenance You may not even think twice about it, but bladed tools require regular maintenance to keep them sharp, strong, and durable. This means sharpening your knives regularly, storing them in safe locations, and understanding how to properly use them. It’s important to know how to use your bladed tools to prevent injury and damage. Even intermediate survivalists should consider learning how to take care of their knives before going on any bushcraft expeditions. Identifying Wildlife Identifying wildlife like birds and rodents can be an entertaining way to pass the time. However, it can also be vital for survival. A chipmunk may not mind a human visitor, but a bear is not going to be as welcoming. Noticing signs of other aggressive wildlife like snakes, mountain lions, and moose may save your life. Remember, you’ll be in their territory, so it’s important to respect their space. This means knowing what to do if you’re approached, how to stay calm, and how to survive an attack.
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7 Survival Skills You Can Learn On Your Own
Learning how to become a survivalist can seem like an impossible undertaking, but there are actually many resources available to help you get started at home. Some skills can be learned with specific courses, books, or digital resources. Others can be learned all by yourself by means of exposure and repetitive practice. For people ready to become true survivalists, it’s vitally important to learn certain survival skills before taking on the wilderness. Here are seven survival skills you can learn in the comforts of your own neighborhood. First Aid First aid should be one of the very first skills you master before attempting to go on any survivalist expedition. When you’re out in the wilderness, there won’t be any doctors available to help you. Thankfully, first aid is something you can practice outside of the woods. In fact, some employers require their team members to be certified in first aid depending on the career. There are plenty of first aid courses for everyday people ranging in difficulty and specialty. First aid courses can teach you skills as customary as CPR to lesser known actions like making a tourniquet. If you plan to backpack or bushcraft, we highly recommend taking an official wilderness first aid course to learn how to survive severe injuries and illnesses caused by natural accidents. Finding Water Sources The human body can only survive for three days without water, and if you’re in a dire situation, dehydration can kill you fast. When you’re out in the wilderness, you’ll have to find and collect water from nearby streams and rivers. Unfortunately, many natural bodies of water contain nasty bacteria and viruses. Thus, you’ll need to learn how to purify and filter water on your own. The good news is that you can easily practice finding and purifying water at home. If you’re still a beginner, start by locating nearby bodies of water. This can even be done in urban areas so long as there’s a creek nearby. Listen for sounds of aquatic wildlife like amphibians and notice if there’s surrounding greenery. To practice purification and filtering, find a nearby nature trail or take advantage of a family weekend camping trip to test out your skills. Foraging If you’re still a beginner or don’t intend to hunt for survival, you need to at least learn how to forage for food. For people without hunting and/or trapping skills, foraging could save your life. If you’re unfamiliar with the term, foraging refers to the gathering of berries, fruits, nuts, and seeds. These can be cooked or consumed for calories when you have no other means of food. Certain wild herbs can even be used for medicinal purposes during an emergency situation. While foraging for goods is the easy part, the catch is knowing what you can and can’t eat. Many wild berries and nuts look edible, but they’re not always good for you. Some can be lethally poisonous if you don’t know what you’re looking for. To practice, grab some books and begin studying different types of herbs, berries, and nuts. Do a lot of research beforehand and take a walk around some of your local nature trails to identify local edibles. Fire Starting Fire is a survivalist’s best friend. In an emergency situation, fire provides warmth, light, and protection from aggressive wildlife. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to start a fire, especially if you don’t have any tools or you’re experiencing wet weather conditions. It can be lifesaving to know how to build and start a fire from scratch. If you’d like to practice at home, use your backyard fire pit. If you don’t have one, respectfully ask your neighbors, family members, or friends. Start off simple by gathering materials for the fire and using matches, flint, or a lighter. Once you feel more comfortable with the process, start weaning off of urban tools and restrict yourself to natural materials. Try challenging yourself even further by starting a fire after a recent rain or snowfall. Tying Knots It may seem silly, but knowing how to tie specific knots can be very helpful. Knots can help you secure a makeshift shelter, a bushcraft fishing rod, or snares. Thankfully, there are plenty of resources available to practice all kinds of knots within the comforts of your own home. You can start by ordering a book of knots and a piece of rope. Use your book as a guide to practice knots with your favorite movie playing in the background. There are also plenty of free, digital guides available at your fingertips. Navigation Without GPS Even the most experienced survivalists get lost in the wilderness. When this happens, your life is immediately on the line. Regardless of whether you’re lost or not, knowing how to navigate the area can help you know where to take shelter several weeks at a time. To practice at home, start setting personal goals for yourself. Begin by trying to drive from one location to another using only a paper map. Once you start mastering wayfinding, wean down to a compass. From there, begin researching navigational skills using the stars, sun positions, and topography orientation. Using Bladed Equipment Theoretically speaking, a survivalist could manage themselves in the wilderness using only a knife. While we only recommend this for the most advanced survivalists, we still stand by the fact that a good knife can be the key to wilderness survival. This means knowing how to properly use your knife, how to store it without premature deterioration, and how to sharpen it. You can practice all these skills at home by researching how to take care of utility knives and creating makeshift tools out of branches in your backyard.
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