Fire will ensure you have:
Warmth – Will help to keep your core body temp around 36.8°c to 37°c which is the optimum temperature that our body's work the best at!
Psychological Reassurance – A point to focus on! In my opinion there is nothing better then sitting around a camp fire after a hard day's work! Also being able to get a fire started will be a massive morale booster in a Survival situation!
Light - In a SHTF situation you will probably not have your Head touch or the like. So a fire will give you a better chance of seeing what's going on around you at night.
Protection – From the extreme elements! Will help to combat the Cold! Even in the Desert the night's can drop well below -4! It will help to keep predators and biting insects away.
Signalling – (GTAS) Ground to Air Signal for search and rescue. In the day a large signal fire with lots of greenery over the top will give off plenty of thick white smoke that will punch through the thickest of tree canopies! At night Three signal fires in a triangle formation at a distance of 100ft apart from one another should also do the trick!!
Cooking – Will make any food that you have acquired more palatable. If you are lucky enough to find, catch and kill a wild animal then you will need to cook it to make it safe to eat (Unless you're Bear Grylls)
Preserve Food – By Smoking! A whole other article…. Slice up any left over meat as thin as possible and hang over your fire. You don't want to cook it but basically dry it with the smoke! Leave to smoke for 12 to 24 hour's and there you have it, home made billtong!!
Sterilising Water – There any many different ways to make suspicious water safe to drink, Chemicals, Filters, etc.. But the failsafe method is to boil any suspect water on a 4 minute rolling boil. At sea level the boiling point of water is 100°c this will make water safe to drink up to an altitude of 2000 meters! Any higher just boil for a little longer as the air pressure changes so does the boiling point of water!
Dry wet clothes – From the Rain, Perspiration or immersion. You will lose body heat 25 times faster in cold water than in the open air! So it if you do end up in the water is is imperative that you dry your wet clothes ASAP!!
Harden Wood – For Tools and Weapons. By placing a pointed stick (Spear) under the embers of a fire where there is no oxygen you will be able to draw the moisture out of the wood and creating a super hard tip!
To make a successful fire you need Three elements: Heat, Oxygen and Fuel. If any one of these elements is missing your fire will not burn
Building a fire calls for an understanding of the dynamics involved. When fuel is burned, part of the heat from that combustion will go on to ignite the next piece of fuel. The hotter the fire the better it will burn!
T K Max – Is what I like to use when teaching! That is Tinder, Kindling and then maximum Fuel.
Tinder – what ever you use, natural or manmade tinder it MUST be something that is bone dry, fiberus and that can be lit by a small match stick flame or sparks!
Cotton wool - from Tampons, Field dressing.
Rubber inner tubing - my kids hate me, there wheels keep going missing!!!
Charcloth - place something 100% cotton eg: Old pair of Jeans, Old kitchen cloth into an old biscuit tin. Place a hole in the lid and stick it onto the fire. Smoke will bellow out of the hole! When the smoke stops take the tin out of the fire. When the tin is cold to the touch open up and there you have it 100% Charcloth!!!
Feather sticks - A great one for your knife skills! Batton into the center of a 12inch long round of dead dry wood and then make fine feathers /curls of wood that are small enough to be lite with a spark!! Check out my Feather stick video on my YouTube channel for a more indepth look!!
Lint - The little bits of fluff that you find at the bottom of your pockets or in between your toes from your socks!
Plant down’s (seed heads) - Any dry, fluffy seed will take a spark. Most don't last for too long though!
Birch bark - All of the Birches have a flammable paper like bark that will light very easily with a spark and burn hot and long!
Fungi (Amadu, Cramp balls) - cramp balls are a small dark brown to black balls that grow on dead or dying Ash trees. When dry, break open and hit the inside with a shower of sparks!
Maya wood (Fat wood) - small splinters of a very high resinous wood cut from pine tree stumps then shaved and hit with a shower of spaks will burn long and strong!
Dry leaves - Dry Holly leaves work well, scrunch up in your hands and hit with sparks!
Dead dry Grass - Very dry dead Grass works really well as a tinder! Fluff up add a little dry seed head's hit with sparks and watch it burn!!
Kindling:
Dry, Dead, standing wood that snaps cleanly like the sound of a crackling fire. Start with match stick size around a foot in length elevating in sizes up to pencil thick size then little finger size!
Maximum Fuel:
Again you will want to elevate up through different sizes gradually placing larger fuel onto your fire.
Setting your fire/Fire lay:
Before we start we must clear the ground down to bare earth if possible. We don’t want to set fire to anything else in the area! Then we need to lay a small stick raft down of dead wood around finger thickness! This is what we are going to light our fire on. This will keep your tinder off the damp, cold ground, Let it breath and give your fire a great Heart of embers as it grows!
This can be done in a great number of ways!
Lighters – Make it a clear plastic one so you can see how much fluid you have left!
Matches – Wind and waterproof ones work best!
Ferrocerium rod – Ferro rod, spark stick, flint and steel, fire steel: produces sparks at a temp of around 3000°c (my go to fire lighter)
Batteries - Car, phone, torch, 9v. Touch onto a strand of wire, short out the battery and you've got a fire!
Sun – Magnifying glass, Glass bottle, Glasses, Condom (filled with water) ice.
Chemicals – Magnesium block, Potassium permanganate (KNM04) and Sugar, (PP) and antifreeze or Glycol “little bit of Harry Potter Magic”
Flint and Steel – very primitive method of creating sparks by friction.
Fire by Friction – Fire bow, hand drill, fire plough. These fire lighting methods have been around since Palaeolithic man roamed the earth!
So as you can see there is quit a lot that goes into successful fire lighting!
So as I tell my students “practice makes permanent”. Get OCD with fire lighting. Practice in all weather conditions with all different materials and tools!
Until next time.
Stay Safe!
Andy
Andy Froy is a qualified NCFE Level 4 Bushcraft, Survival and Wilderness Living Skills Instructor & Mentor at Survival School Ltd UK (And a good friend of BushcraftLab)
He has some fantastic videos on his YouTube channel that I'm sure you'll find of interest CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE
]]>The Survival Rule of 3s is a good place.
3 Minutes without oxygen to the brain – without any long lasting brain damage. (also bleeding out!) Yes some people can last a lot longer!
3 Hours without Protection from the Extreme elements before you could succumb to Hypothermia or Hyperthermia.
3 Days without water – Extreme dehydration.
3 Weeks without food - Starvation.
(The Rule of 3s is just a rough guide)
This shows us how important protection from the “Killer combinations” is. The Wind, Rain, Cold, Heat and Sun.
So to understand how the killer combinations can get us we need to understand how our bodies deal with temperature change.
As Humans we are “Homotherms”. We keep our core body temperature at a constant level. When we get hot we sweat, this is our bodies way of cooling us down. When we get cold weshiver, a reflex action which makes our muscles move which in turn creates warmth by expending energy.
Our inner core body temperature is normally around 36.8°c – 37°c. If your core temp goes higher then 42.7°c or lower than 28.8°c, you will die of Hyperthermia or Hypothermia.
So this is why we need to know how to Shelter from the killer combinations.
Your first line of defence is the clothing on your back.
Base Layer – Against your skin to wick sweat away.
Thermal Layer – Traps the warm air in between your base layer and itself.
Outer Layer, Soft shell or hard shell layer – Protection from the wind and rain.
Hat, Gloves, Buff (scarf) Around 70-80% of your body’s heat is lost from your head and Neck area...
Your second line of defence is to find some sort of personal protection shelter such as a tarpaulin or a storm shelter (bothy bag). If you are unlucky enough not to have any other protection that is where natural survival shelters come into play. If we get to the point of having to build a shelter we will need to think about certain things like what equipment you have if any knife, saw, axe, digging tools, cordage......
Site selection: Any hazards like dead fall, game trails, dry river beds, rock fall. If possible close but not too close to a water source. Are there enough building materials in the area? What is the terrain like? If you need to consider a search and rescue attempt!
Construction: The size and strength of your shelter, how is it going to stand (lashings, foundations, gravity) what are you going to thatch it with and how are you going to heat it (fire or body heat)?
What ever you do and how ever you do it, your main aim is to get yourself out of the elements and get your core body temperature back to 36.8°c – 37°c.
Stay Safe!
Andy
Andy Froy is a qualified NCFE Level 4 Bushcraft, Survival and Wilderness Living Skills Instructor & Mentor at Survival School Ltd UK (And a good friend of BushcraftLab)
He has some fantastic videos on his YouTube channel that I'm sure you'll find of interest CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE
The main compartment of the KarrimorSF Sabre 30 offers an abundance of uninterrupted, flexible space for carrying essentials for a well-equipped day in the field or even a lightweight overnighter with a hammock and tarp, a BCB Crusader cup and stove set and enough FireDragon fuel for dinner and breakfast the next day.
For water, Justin relies on the Pure Hydration ‘APT’ which is an all in one water-bottle and filtration/purification system which allows users to draw water from almost any non-saline source to create safe drinking water.
Justin says about the Pure Hydration APT; “Using the APT means that I can maintain a good level of hydration without the need to carry several litres of water each day, saving space and weight. I usually keep my APT in the elasticated side pockets of the KarrimorSF Sabre 30, adding another layer of security by clipping it to the side of the pack.’
On the sides of the Sabre 30 are ski guides for transporting skis which are brilliant for bush craters in Nordic or Alpine environments, but they can also be used for securing walking poles or other ‘long’ items to the outside of the pack. In Justin’s case, it’s usually an umbrella; no matter where in the world his expeditions and adventures take him, Justin usually carries an umbrella.
The zipped lid compartment, accessible from the exterior of the pack, is a great place for storing ‘quick-grab’ items such as compact cameras, phones or even your ‘Food For Free’ identification guide.
The top flap of the KarrimorSF Sabre 30 hosts a ‘cats-cradle’ style bungee arrangement which is suitable for holding other items short-term (the more items you can keep inside your pack the better because there’s less chance of loosing them!). Justin uses this feature for collecting fire fuel; “When I’m approaching the end of my journey for the day, I start collecting small dry pieces of stick etc to use as kindling for my fire - if I’m having one. I stuff the kindling bundles under the bungee cords so that when I do eventually stop I don’t have to spend time hunting for dry kindling… I’m ready to go’.
As with all KarrimorSF daypacks, backpacks and rucksacks the adjustable padded shoulder straps and waist belt give the wearer exceptional comfort, even when the pack is full loaded, and the ‘coolmesh’ back system improves airflow and therefor comfort on hot days and long hikes.
The KarrimorSF Sabre 30 is a superb lightweight 30L daypack from the illustrious Karrimor SF stable and would be the ideal choice for an entire range of outdoor activities.
Keen wilderness explorers and campers should always be kitted out with the right gear when they head out on their latest trip. It doesn’t matter if it’s a simple camping trip in the woods or an expedition into the mountains, without the right equipment and a survival kit to hand, you’re asking for trouble right from the start.
]]>Keen wilderness explorers and campers should always be kitted out with the right gear when they head out on their latest trip. It doesn’t matter if it’s a simple camping trip in the woods or an expedition into the mountains, without the right equipment and a survival kit to hand, you’re asking for trouble right from the start.
Experienced explorers like Bear Grylls have helped develop a range of pro-gear for explorers to purchase before their travels, and if somebody like that is highlighting a need for a survival kit, it’s time to sit up and take notice.
The question that many newbie explorers might have is: What are the essential tools needed for a sufficient survival kit? This does change depending on the level of exploration that you are going on, e.g. chances of extreme weather and the length of the trip, but the essentials are all pretty much the same, and include:
This is an essential tool because there are so many uses for a knife and if you don’t have one to hand, you’re going to be struggling to keep simple tasks simple and you could potential waste a lot of time chasing one down or finding alternative ways to cut ropes, protect yourself from wildlife (for the more adventurous and dangerous trips), opening packages and cutting anything that would usually cut by scissors. Your knife should be sharp and kept on you at all times, for safety and to ensure you don’t lose it.
Such as the BCB 550 Paracord, with a breaking strain 8-core survival military Paracord, is an essential tool for any type of camping trip. It can be used as a rope for climbing, a hoist for passing bags and other items up and/or down mountain faces, making grips on walking sticks and other uses in and around your camp. It can also be used to help create an emergency shelter if need be. It could be the difference between keeping you safe and dry if the heavy weather comes in. You should also get your hands on a Paracord bracelet.
Water Bottles and Hydration Systems
How many times have you seen or heard of a story where somebody has found themselves suffering from dehydration because of a lack of water. Humans need this to survive, so it makes sense to have as many methods of drinking water to hand as possible. This can be in the form of water bottles or hydration systems that can be built-in to your packs or camping jackets. You should also look to have at least 20 litres of water at your camping site for emergency use, and to prevent you from having to keep searching for more.
Whether you’re disappearing into a mountain for weeks or having a one night trip, a first aid kit is an essential part of any survival kit. From deep heat for muscle aches to bandages and plasters for cuts, sprains and breakages, any medical problem should be dealt with at the earliest opportunity, before any emergency services come and take over. In the wilderness, it could be a matter of life and death, and in the least dangerous scenario, it takes away the inconvenience and discomfort associated with small wounds and other ailments that could ruin your trip and bring it to a dissatisfying end.
Whistles and Signals
In an age where communication is as simple as picking up a smartphone, it’s easy to forget that in the wilderness, or even in some rural areas, it’s impossible to reach out to emergency services, friends and family. In this instance, a whistle and other forms of signalling equipment are essential, as you can let your whereabouts be known at any time of the day or night by sound or light. In the most extreme cases, an S.O.S from a flashlight or signal mirror could flag your whereabouts to a helicopter or other form of transport, and without it, you might struggle to be found, which in a medical emergency could mean life or death.
Map and Compass
What use are a map and compass if you don’t know how to use them? You need to know exactly where you are at any given moment, and have the skills available to be able to navigate to and from your camp without getting lost and taking unnecessary detours to find help or civilisation.
As well as these tools, your survival kit should include plenty of clothes (including hats, gloves and waterproof gear) to keep you warm and dry and prevent any discomfort from settling in. If you follow these guidelines, you should be able to create a great survival kit and be prepared for any type of adventure.
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Lets start with some basics.
We would recommend a fixed knife over a folding knife every time, they are stronger and generally more hard wearing for longer term use with less to go wrong than a folder.
Steels really are based upon the tasks that you want your knife for, in the end you must choose.
Stainless steel contains a high level of the element chromium to become corrosion resistant but also becomes a softer steel, this basically tells us it wont keep its edge as long as other steels and are not so easy to sharpen in the field.
Carbon steels do not contain chromium so it is a much harder steel, a sharp edge can be maintained for longer and they are easier to sharpen, but this will also mean it has very little corrosion resistance, upkeep with a rust inhibitor will need to be used.
So, are you off to a jungle/marine area if so stainless will be the best choice, if a dry dessert region then carbon steel.
As we stated earlier, we always recommend a fixed blade knife, it must also be a full tang construction, it’s stronger, and more versatile. Shocks and impact are also shared throughout the length of the knife, avoid the cheap survival knives that have a bolt holding the blade into the handle void, these are obviously a weak point.
A few basic points to help you choose the correct bushcraft knife for what YOU need.
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Follow Animals
The most obvious sources of water are streams, rivers and lakes. Animals and birds will know where good water sources are. Look out for them or their tracks and follow where they go. Green vegetation and swarming insects can also be a good way to pinpoint nearby water sources. While solitary animal tracks are unlikely to mean anything in themselves, if you see converging tracks, they are probably heading towards water.
Listen Carefully
Even if you can’t see any water, you may be able to hear it. Try not to panic, but stand still for a few minutes listening carefully. Streams and rivers make a distinctive rushing noise and are some of the safest water sources you can find because they are constantly moving rather than remaining stagnant.
Head Downhill
If there is no sign or sound signalling water, then doing the same as water and following gravity may be your best chance. Make sure you can find your way back by using your pocket knife or a rock to mark the trees you pass. Low lying areas and wooded valleys are a good place to look.
Where there’s mud, there’s water
As a last resort, you could try into muddy or damp soil. Where there is mud, there is likely to be water. Unfiltered groundwater is usually very dirty and could be contaminated. But, even dirty water could keep you alive, particularly if you’re able to use your purification tablets from your survival pack. Strain the water through a cloth or canvas as an extra measure to clean it.
Capture Rain
If it rains, then find anything you can to capture the rainwater. Use any containers you have along with utilising any plastic clothing or bedding you might have with you. If you have a rain poncho, plastic sheeting or tarp, tie it a few feet of the ground, leaving a slight sag to allow the rain to collect and drain.
Snow & Ice
If you’re near snow and ice, you may be facing extra survival problems as you struggle to overcome the cold. But, at least you will be able to make a fire and melt any snow or ice to drink the water. No matter how tempting it is, don’t eat it frozen as the effort your body has to put in to warm you back up again will lead to dehydration.
Morning Dew
The best time to collect dew is before the sun rises. It may seem impossible to collect such small droplets of water, but the easiest way is to use a t-shirt or towel and wipe it over grass until the cloth becomes wet. Then you can squeeze it out into a container, if you have one, or directly into your mouth if not. Another option is to tie some cloth around your ankles and take a walk through high grass. Hopefully, you’ll soak up enough water for a drink.
Vegetation
Sometimes, Mother Nature is able to provide you with clean, drinkable water. Certain plants hold water, such as green bamboo. If you bend the top of a green bamboo plant down, cutting a few inches off the tip, and put a container underneath, you should have clean water after a night. Milk from green coconuts is also a good thirst quencher although ripe fruits can act as a laxative. Plants with large, overlapping leaves may have collected rainwater. But be careful you aren’t drinking from any poisonous plants.
By being aware of what to do in the worst case scenario, you should be prepared if you find yourself in a survival situation.
#survival #bushcraft #camping #outdoor #nature #adventure #outdoors #survivalgear #survivalist #prepper #wilderness #water #forest #survivalskills
]]>Unlike other countries, most land in the UK is owned privately. However, there are exceptions, there is public footpaths and trails across many beautiful landscapes in England and Wales that you are free to hike.
There are areas of England and Wales where you have the ‘right to roam’ meaning you don’t just have to stick to footpaths. The Natural England department of the government have made this data available online.
Try to find a private location to camp, ask the landowner in advance. You might be surprised to find that alot of farmers will give you permission.
Scotland is very different as it allows unhindered access to open countryside, giving you the right to be on land for outdoor purposes including; hunting, shooting and fishing, etc.
England and Wales allow wild camping in many upland areas. If on private land, dont forget to seek the land owner’s permission first.
England, Wales and Northern Ireland you must have landowner’s permission for a camp fire, it is also permitted in Scotland.
The outdoor access code also states “Wherever possible, use a stove rather than light an open fire. If you do wish to light an open fire, keep it small, under control, and supervised, fires that get out of control can cause major damage, for which you might be liable. Never light an open fire during prolonged dry periods or in areas such as forests, woods, farmland or on peaty ground or near to buildings or in cultural heritage sites where damage can be easily caused. Heed all advice at times of high risk. Remove all traces of an open fire before you leave.”
It is illegal in the UK and Northern Ireland to uproot wild plants without permission from the landowner. Whereas picking flowers, leaves, berries, nuts, seeds and fungi is allowed where legal access is granted.
Before using any snares you must obtain landowner’s permission and follow the codes of practice set out by Defra. There are restrictions on the use of snares in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
If you’re looking to roam freely and wild camp then head to open access land, or head to Scotland for a more relaxed wild camping experience, with far less restrictions than in England & Northern Ireland.
Outdoor enthusiasts trying to find land on which to practice and hone their bushcraft skills is the biggest challenge, the key is to use your initiative and dont be afraid to knock on a few landowners doors, you will be surprised at the offers you may get.
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When I was 14 years old, I attended my very first bushcraft course. I was THAT girl who was prioritising her make up over anything, because how could I survive the outdoors without a full face of make up?! I was not looking forward to this excursion, but I wanted to make my Dad happy as he was excited for it. So, I decided, I would bite the bullet, keep my head down and the weekend would be over soon enough. It was a canoe and bushcraft course and I feel like everyone could feel my distaste for it, until we got into our canoes and laughed as people were getting stuck and struggling to manoeuvre through the water. That was until we, were getting stuck and struggling to manoeuvre through the water… Not as funny from the other side. For the first time, I was feeling calm. I struggled with anxiety for a long time as my Mum had a stroke a few years prior that took us all by surprise. I was always the loudest family member, and then I became the quiet, reserved one, but then within a few hours I was having the time of my life, laughing till my sides hurt and being absolutely blown away by the beauty of the Norfolk Broads. How did I live so close to somewhere that had so much to offer? I thought at that time you could only really see beautiful places like this abroad. I was talking to strangers about their canoe conundrums and sharing stories about how amazing it is to be outdoors.
After we arrived at the campsite, we set up our camp. Fair to say, I was expecting one of those glorious 1950s style campsites with lanterns lit up all around. I was not expecting a damp wooded area with a tarp over my head. Is that it? I had never been camping before, so I at least wanted a tent! Ridiculous! However, Dad was still smiling so I trundled on. It then came to get some dinner, I was learning ways to make a fire with wet wood, and it amazed me how quickly they could do it. I even found that I was relatively good at it. I made a feather stick and it was most likely the first time I held a knife that wasn’t in the kitchen. We had fish cooked over an open fire and I was absolutely famished. It was pretty burnt and was entirely black, but as I said I was very hungry and therefore, I ate it so quickly. I was hoping they would offer seconds. My dad collected my plate and asked where the rest was. Well I ate it, obviously. What I did NOT know was that it was not a usual fish fillet… it was a whole fish. That’s right, the head, eyes, bones… the lot. The army veteran who had served for 26 years, suddenly became very pale. I guess I got the strong stomach from my mother then?
On our second day I woke up with terribly sore muscles, but we were having so much fun I didn’t even notice. I was quite sad to depart and wish I could do another couple of days. I had gone from thinking it was going to be the most dreadful experience in my life, to changing my life completely. I suddenly became more confident in everything that I did. I began seeing my friends again and not feeling anxious about everything that I do. I joined the Air Training Corps. Something I would have never imagined myself doing, and from then on, my confidence just grew, all because I embraced the outdoors. It felt like a complete miracle, I never would have expected it and I really didn’t expect it from just spending a bit of time outdoors. It didn’t completely eradicate my anxiety, but I found my medicine, my cure.
A few years later I’m now an instructor working with my Dad in a new business called Echo Company, as well as attending university studying history and archaeology. We can teach outdoor skills and a variety of outdoor activities so that people can feel the way I did. They can escape their stressors from daily life, even if for a day and see what it means to truly be at ease. For me, there is nothing in the world more amazing than the outdoors and the benefits it can provide you with. It’s natural meditation, you don’t need the condescending voices telling you to breathe in and out and do yoga in some bizarre positions that only contortionists can do. Just GO OUTDOORS! Take a walk and listen to the sounds around you, the cars on the road, the couple next door arguing over opening a new milk when there’s already one open. Or go to a local park and hear the birds and dog walkers. Or, come visit Echo Company and try activities such as shooting, archery, bushcraft, laser pigeon shooting, axe throwing and much more.
If you don’t challenge yourself every now and then, you’ll never know how strong you really are.
A lot has changed for me, but if you’re wondering, I still am THAT girl who stuffs make up into her Bergen.
@maddie_callaghan @echocompanyuk #getoutside #familyfun #familyoutdoors #outdooreducation #camping #navigation #cooking #outdoorskills #anewapproachtolearning #bushcraft #learning #bushcraftlab
]]>For anyone new to this blog, please take a look at Part 1 where you will find the rules for foraging, I must recap on rule number one – 100% ID AT ALL TIMES – If you don’t know exactly what it is, don’t eat it.
]]>For anyone new to this blog, please take a look at Part 1 where you will find the rules for foraging, I must recap on rule number one – 100% ID AT ALL TIMES – If you don’t know exactly what it is, don’t eat it.
Japanese Knotweed (Reynoutria Japonica or Fallopia Japonica)
Perhaps one that you would normally wish to never discover, especially in your own garden, Japanese Knotweed (JK) is edible and damn tasty to boot! Due to its extremely invasive nature, care must be taken if foraging, ensure the specimen has not been sprayed with chemicals.
Closely related to rhubarb, a similar flavour and used in a similar way, it is useful in deserts and to make sauces for gamey meat. Not just tasty, JK also contains vitamins A and C and is a source of potassium, zinc, phosphorus and manganese.
The young shoots are the parts to look for, its stems resembling bamboo in shape, has ‘knuckled’ nodes and the leaves a spear tip shape almost half oval with a flat bottom, sometimes pointed at the tip. The whole plant can be green and/or tinted red throughout. When in flower, the blooms are off white/cream and splay vertically like a popped champagne bottle.
Dandelion – (Taraxacum Officinale)
A well known ‘weed’ known for its diuretic properties although blown out of proportion in folklore (you will not wet the bed from sniffing the flowers) The flowers are similar to several other plants, some of which are not so good for you. The ‘teeth’ of the leaves will point back in towards the centre of the plant, this simple ID feature will single the plant out from most.
All parts of the Dandelion are edible, younger specimens better, the leaves are added to salads or boiled like spinach, flowers raw or cooked and sometimes used to flavour beer! The roots can be roasted and ground to be used like coffee for a hot beverage.
The benefits are astounding, Just half a cup of dandelions contain more calcium than a glass of milk and more iron than the same weight in spinach! A cup of the plant will contain around 19mg of vitamin C, more vitamin A than Carrots and an absolutely GIGANTIC amount of Vitamin K.
Rock Samphire – (Crithmum Maritimum)
Heading to the coast this summer? Have a look for this one adorning the cliffs of your chosen venue, and then pay an extortionate amount of money for it is the flashest of restaurants!
The leaves of Rock Samphire look similar to a set of deer antlers, cross sectionally the are triangular/roundish, the flowers are ‘umbeliferous’ ranging from off-white, through to yellowish-green. Please note that rock samphire belongs to the family Apiaceae – the most dangerous family of plants in the UK.
High in vitamin C and many essential vitamins and boasting many medicinal properties, rock samphire is one to be used as a pot herb which goes especially well with fish. It can be eaten raw and give a perfumey, spicy, citrus flavour.
Fat Hen (Chenopodium Album)
Fat Hen, Goosefoot, Lambs Quarters, to state a few of its common names, is usually discarded as a weed, but, should be used as an edible much the same as spinach.
The leaves are said to be the shape of a goose’s foot, if slightly more elongated. The leaves are ‘unwettable’ water will bead and run off, the underside is white, covered with a very fine layers of hairs. The flowers grow in lights green densely packed linear bunches, which later over exert the plant making it lean over
Fat Hen is a SUPERFOOD! The nutritional value is too diverse to list it here, give it a research, you will be astounded. For instance, 100g of the greens raw will provide 43Kcal, 4.2g of protein, vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, C and a whole host of minerals to boot. Its black seeds are high too in protein and many of the same nutrients as the leaves. In India, the plant is called Bathua, these seeds Are used much the same as rice or lentils. Napoleon Bonaparte is said to have once relied one these to feed his troops during tough times.
Fat Hen contains larger than average amounts of Oxalic Acid therefore should be eaten in moderation. To put this in context, Coffee and Chocolate also contain Oxalic Acid.
Chickweed (Stellaria Media)
Chickweed is the bane of some gardeners but is also grown as a food source by some, easily identified but also has some lookalikes. To positively ID Chickweed, first look for the oval shaped leaves that grow on the stems opposite each other, the lower ones on the stem have their own stalks. The flowers are very small, white, they have five petals and are so deeply lobed that it can look as though there are ten petals. A key identifier with chickweed is that it will have a single line of hairs growing the length of the stems. Other lookalikes will be completely covered by hairs.
Chickweed is eaten raw as a salad green or as a leaf green vegetable; it does contain high levels of saponins which are toxic, though a considerably large amount would need to be consumed. There are lists of medicinal properties, though most of these are not supported by scientific evidence.
Chickweed has an abundance of vitamins and minerals A, B1, B2, C, Calcium, Iron Potassium, Zinc to name but a few, It also contains protein and is high in Fiber.
Many thanks for tuning in, please let me know if you have feedback, everyday is a school day, even for the instructors of the world! As always, I will stress that 100% ID IS CRITICAL.
Please take a look at my facebook page – www.facebook.com/SteveAleySurvival/ for more foraging tips and a host of other survival ‘stuff’!
]]>Onwards for another favourite five to search for this week.
Common Gorse (Umex Europaeus)
The Bain of every rambler, hill walker and certainly every person to have been awarded the coveted Green Beret, Gorse is a plant that has had its fair share of profanity thrown it’s direction, why? Because it is adorned with the sharpest spikes known to mankind I’m sure!
The bright yellow flowers stand out from a great distance and may confuse the plant with types of ‘Broom’ once up close though, the thorns are the clue. These flowers are the edible parts and are jammed full of vitamin C. They can be eaten raw, added to stews or made into a tea.
Another use for the flowers is to make a yellow dye, the bark used in the same way, will make a green dye.
It is rumoured that the Northern side flowers taste of Mangetout peas, the Southern of coconut! Although this is very subjective, in a survival situation, noting a difference in flavour could add to the clues you need to determine direction, be prepared and buy a compass here at the Bushcraftlab!
Nettles (Urtica Dioica)
Little introduction is needed for Nettles, there are lookalikes but there remains the key identifier – the sting!
Netttles are an extremely useful plant, the leaves and seeds are edible, they should be cooked to destroy the proteins which cause the stinging sensation, they are eaten raw in a yearly competition in Dorset, I personally wouldn’t like to be stung in the throat whilst in the comfort of my home let alone in a survival situation!
Later in the year, Nettles contain larger amounts of calcium, the tips are the leaves to go for but eating very large amounts may cause a build up of said calcium which can lead to kidney stones if eaten in vast amounts; treat like spinach when gauging how much to put on your plate/mess tin/piece of non-poisonous tree bark.
Oregon Grape (Mahonia Aquifolium)
Predominantly seen in the UK as part of a well-arranged garden or perhaps as an escapee; spread, unknowingly, by a greedy bird. The leaves resemble those of the holly tree but are less rigid, therefore, less likely to make you bleed!
After the bright yellow flowers, this plant will grow long clusters of small, around 1cm long powdery purple ‘grapes’. It is these grape-like berries that are the edible part, be warned though, they are tart! Best used to make a jelly, flavour other dishes or even to make wine!
Vitamin C is the main benefit from the Oregon Grape, as a survivor, this is extremely important to maintain the immune system. One of the main ingredients ‘Berberine’ is a double-edged sword, in high quantities it may be dangerous; in the correct quantity it is said to have cancer fighting properties!
Be aware if you know you have an intolerance to Berberine, this plant should be avoided.
The young leaves and the seed heads are edible, older leaves becoming more bitter. The seed heads themselves, surprisingly have a flavour and smell of mushroom! Though the texture is not quite so pleasant. The roots of this plant are edible too and can be chopped and roasted for a decaff coffee substitute (Don’t get too excited)
Vitamins C, E and K are the prize, among a host of useful minerals. The medicinal properties are too varied to list here but give this plant a research, you will be astounded!
Navelwort (Umbilicus Rupestris)
A common sight in the South West of the UK, often seen sprouting from the side of drystone walls, though I have seen them adorning the trunk of trees in the past. Its name, Latin and common, are given due to the appearance of a navel or belly button.
The leaves are deliciously succulent, releasing a burst of moisture when chewed, perfect on a hot day to moisten the palate, they are best used as a salad green or eaten straight from the earth, in a grazing fashion. Be aware when picking these leaves that it is best to trim them with scissors etc, a clumsy pull can remove the whole specimen from its substrate.
Another use for the leaves is as a wound or burn dressing, the lower cuticle or skin of the leaf is removed, and the leaf then applied like a plaster, fantastically cooling and soothing!
Little is documented of the nutritional content but the moisture within adds value to the effort of collecting this plant.
I hope you have enjoyed this week’s feast of five. Please, always remember the number one rule 100% ID AT ALL TIMES.
Steve Aley
If you wish to learn more about the plethora of plants around us, please take a look at my page https://www.facebook.com/SteveAleySurvival/, there is also lots of information regarding the other priorities of survival: Protection, Location and Water, with plenty more to come; don’t forget to give it a and with your friends!
Don’t forget to give it a Like and Share with your friends!
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Prepping is simply about being aware of, and prepared for possible threats that could seriously challenge our way of life.
It is perfectly natural for a human to imagine an array of different possible threats, and then working out possible solutions about how we can survive, if any of those situations happened to materialise.
]]>Prepping is simply about being aware of, and prepared for possible threats that could seriously challenge our way of life.
It is perfectly natural for a human to imagine an array of different possible threats, and then working out possible solutions about how we can survive, if any of those situations happened to materialise.
We have basic fundamental needs that need to be met just to survive, so in a crisis situation these would obviously take priority. For example, food, water, shelter and clothing to keep warm. These are the foundation needs that a prepper starts with, and then they can work upwards to prepare more layers to add for better survival.
Humans are more at risk of emergency situations arising than we may at first think. When most people think of preppers, they may picture a survival nut dressed in combat gear, armed to the teeth with weaponry, and appear to the outside world as a little bit strange.
But you can be a prepper no matter what your background and beliefs. Let me ask you a question. If your neighbourhood were to experience an unexpected earthquake or a freak severe snow storm that would cut you off from civilisation for a good few days, would you be able to cope?
Many sensible people will have a basic disaster pack, especially those with households built on fault lines or in climates that regularly experience extreme weather conditions. It is just common sense to be prepared with supplies for family members that should last between 3 and 5 days when you live with the possible risk of being cut off and isolated for this long. So there are more basic preppers in the world than you may actually realise.
However, there are many preppers who take their preparedness to even higher levels, and will have back-ups for their back-up plans, just in case the emergency situation lasts for longer than a few day.
First of all, you should ensure you have basic provisions in place to cover not only your needs, but also any family members that live in your house. There are great forums online where other preppers offer advice and experiences that will help you to think of things that may not be obvious to you at first. If you have prepared to live without power for example, you don't want to be in a situation where you have a camping stove and plenty of candles, but no matches or a lighter available to get them started! A bit of an obvious point to make, yes, but you will be surprised at how easy it is to miss the simplest of things when building your list of essentials.
When starting out it can seem a little overwhelming at first, but if you concentrate on the most basic of your survival needs first, once these are in place you will have a good foundation to build on.
So your priorities should always start with:
Food
Start by stockpiling tinned and dried packet food that do not need to be kept in the fridge or freezer, and that have a long shelf-life. Quite often it will be cheaper to buy in bulk from larger supermarkets when items come on special offer, or the supermarkets run special promotions.
Buy as much as you can comfortably afford, and try to find a different bargain to stock up on each week or month when you do your bulk supermarket shopping. Check expiration dates on dried and packet foods, and choose ones with a good one or two years date left on them. Tinned foods tend to have long use-by-dates on them.
If you choose tinned and packet food that you would normally use throughout the year, then you can get into the habit of rotating them in the home so that they will never go out of date, and you can constantly replenish your stockpile with new produce while you use up the older items. Try to think 'eat what you store and store what you eat'.
Mix it up a little by adding a few different tins and packets to add interest, and prevent you from becoming bored of eating the same meals over again. Yes, baked beans are a cheap and nutritious staple to have in your stockpile, but try not to plan to eat them every day!
Water
The rule of thumb is to have 1 gallon of water per person per day. Work out how much water you will need for yourself and your family members for one day, then multiply that figure by three. Water is essential to life, so having three days worth of water in store will go a long way to getting you through an average emergency situation.
Because you may not know how long your crisis may last, it would be wise to play it safe and double up on your water supply as and when possible. Remember to also pack such items as water purification tablets and a water filter jug in the event that you need to draw water from another source that could be contaminated. If you still have power, or you have a home generator, then keeping water in the freezer is another way to extend your fresh water supply.
Medicines and medical supplies
There may be a chance of injury in some crisis situations, so keeping an up to date first aid kit is an essential must-have in your preparedness kit. Also include extra bandages, painkillers and sterilising supplies in case you have to deal with a severe injury and medical assistance will be delayed. If any of your family members take medication on a regular basis, try to ensure that they never run out of their medications, and always have a good back-up supply close at hand that is easily accessible should an emergency occur.
Some useful supplies for people starting to prep
This survival tin is a cheap alternative to many of the expensive “ultimate” survival tins available. The Web-Tex Combat Survival Tin, contains everything basic you need to start surviving and is favoured by army cadets and campers when going on expeditions. With kits to catch food, make fires, signal and purify water.
The DD Camping Hammock will provide you with warmth and shelter if you ever need to bug out. Lightweight, easy to pack and set up, this could be the perfect addition to any bug out bag. It is space efficient and is enjoyed worldwide by campers of all skill levels.
Emergency Grab Bag 72 Hour Kit
This is a great starter bug out bag to have in the interim while you either save for a bigger one or start assembling one yourself. It is also great to keep after you assemble your main bug out bag as it can be useful if you only need to survive for a short period of time before you come back. It contains everything you need for an emergency evacuation or disaster situation.
This knife is perfect for survival as it is useful for the infinite survival uses of a knife and it also includes a fire steel, making it a useful space saver in any bug out bag. It could also save your life in a self-defence situation as an absolute last resort, “you-or-them” situation.
What Great British prepping kit wouldn’t contain a tool for making a nice cup of tea? This high quality kettle is lightweight and compact, making it the perfect addition to any bug out bag. You might be asking yourself why tea would possibly be important in a survival situation. Well, John Hudson one of the best survivalists in the world believes that psychology is one of the most important aspects of survival and that enjoying an everyday thing like a cup of tea can be great for morale.
Light My Fire Swedish Fire Steel
Fire can be an essential part of survival. Which is why a fire steel is an important part of any prepper’s bug out bag. This competitively priced example was developed for the Swedish Department of Defence and now has a built in emergency whistle, which could help you call for aid if necessary.
BCB Advanced Lifesave First Aid Kit
This medical kit could mean the difference between life and death for you, a family member or anyone in need of medical help and is therefore essential to any prepper’s bug out bag. Part of prepping is being ready when the worst happens after the worst happens.
If you’re considering stock piling as part of your prepping plan, water is not a bad place to start. Water is essential to survival and is often taken for granted in the western world, but if there is no water supply, you will be glad to have stockpiled these bags, which could be the difference between life and death.
Pure Hydration Aquapure Traveler
Again, water is vital for survival. So finding a clean and pure source of it is essential. This bottle will help you to cleanse and purify water, making it safe for human consumption. This is not only useful for prepping, but can be used for hiking and camping as well.
Paracord is famous for being one of the most useful survival tools in the world. Having literally 1000s of uses paracord wristbands are worn by Special Forces worldwide. Any prepper who knows his stuff will have tonnes of paracord lying about.
For anyone trying to save space in their bug out bag, this tiny compass is perfect for navigating. This small compass serves its purpose perfectly, while being space and weight efficient.
]]>I hope you enjoyed learning the rules for foraging in the previous instalment; follow them for a safe experience and plenty of food for the future.
This week I will be introducing you to my weekly 5; that is, 5 plants you can find NOW to practise your 100% ID and, lets face it, who doesn’t like free food! Without further delay, here we go.
Common Daisy (Bellis Perennis)
You love it? You love it not? You better believe it, those annoying flowers in your lawn are edible! You most likely know Daisys from making chains as children but never thought to taste one. The flowers and leaves are both edible, though not to everyone's taste; some describe as bitter, some say it is like medicine. The flowers and buds can also be made into a tea or pickled like capers.
Take care where you pick them, at a couple of inches tall, they are in range of even a Chihuahua pup!
Common Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella)
Often confused with Clover due to it’s trifoliate leaves, Common Wood Sorrel packs a flavour punch! You can distinguish it apart from Clover as the leaves are more heart shaped than rounded.
Leaves, stems and flowers all edible, often used as a garnish or sprinkled into salads to give a burst of flavour.
Common Wood Sorrel is packed full of Vitamin C and amongst other benefits can soothe an aching stomach.
BE CAREFUL though, as this particular plant contains higher than average amounts of Oxalic Acid, although generally you would need to consume a vast amount to feel the effects. That said, if you do have a medical condition it may be worth checking with the doc first.
Wild Edible Plants - Lady's Smock/Cuckoo Flower (Cardamine Pratensis)
A slender, delicate meadow plant that packs a wasabi-like bite, It’s light pink four petalled flower is key when distinguishing this from Hairy Bittercress.
Leaves, flowers and young shoots of this plant are excellent additions to a salad depending on your taste, think wasabi at one end of the scale through to mild cress at the other.
Lady’s Smock contains potassium, magnesium, iron, mustard oil compounds and very high levels of Vitamin C, a great addition to any meal especially when a boost in nutrients is needed. It is also said to help with heavy menstrual bleeding.
Garlic Mustard or Jack-By-The-Hedge (Alliaria Petiolata)
As the common name suggests, here we have one of the ‘wild garlics’. Commonly seen at the side of the road or hedge also on the periphery of woodland enjoying the dappled sunlight.
It grows in a two-year cycle, difficult to spot in the first year, it stays close to the ground and has very round shaped leaves; in the second year it grows tall with white flowers and pointed upper leaves,
The greens are highly nutritious with vitamins ACE and various B vitamins along with this, it is awash with essential minerals and Omega-3 fatty acids
Wild Carrot or Queen Anne’s Lace (Daucus Carota)
Carrots, wild and cultivated belong to the family Apiaceae; this family contains members that are amongst the most dangerous in the UK. REMEMBER THE No.1 RULE – 100% ID!
Found in meadows and coastal regions, Wild carrot is a treat indeed when dining ‘el wild’ It’s hairy stems and often a single pink flower in the centre of the umbel distinguish from the nasty relatives. Also, the flowers will encase themselves in a lacey cocoon when they go over.
The roots are the parts we want, they look like a white carrot and smell (to me) as such too, used the same as cultivated carrots, they contain Vitamin K, Biotin, Carbohydrates and natural sugars – great survival food!
Please remember 100% ID!!
]]>A compound in a nutshell offers greater power, precision and is easier to use from the start.
For Hunting, which of these crossbow types is the best? The answer to this depends on the type of hunting you are going to do, in the UK it is illegal to hunt with a crossbow, so this refers to other parts of the world. While hunting, it is important to use stealth to your advantage. The modern design of the compound crossbow means that it weighs less and is generally a narrower profile than the recurve. This will make it easier to move around undetected.
The compound xbow is normally used for large game, such as a deer, the recurve crossbow also has a place in the hunting world, its generally used for small game. The recurve bow can be used for hunting large game, but it will require a greater level of accuracy.
Let’s talk about accuracy. The compound bow has much larger strings, they make it easier to pull the bolt back and hold it in place, utilising less of the kinetic energy, as a result, the compound bow has greater stability and power. The recurve crossbow strings are not as long as the compound bow, therefore, it takes more strength to hold the bolt back, this can result in less accuracy and a loss of power, when it comes to accuracy, the compound crossbow is the clear winner here.
Many beginners want to know which crossbow is the best when they are first starting out, the compound crossbow takes much less time to learn. The recurve crossbow takes much longer to learn, and is less accurate.
Now, we are going to talk about power, some people say both types of crossbows have equal amounts of power. It is easy to see why people may say this, it is possible to get a recurve crossbow that has the same resistance as a compound crossbow, although the compound crossbow will store more energy after the draw than the recurve, as some kinetic energy is lost while holding the bolt in position. The bolt will not have the same amount of power when released, The compound crossbow is more powerful than the recurve xbow in most opinions.
To summarise, the compound crossbow takes less effort to cock due to its pulley distribution system resulting in astonishing power output with a much easier drawing and loading. Greater accuracy with the compound crossbow and also a slimmer profile for steath use, the cost of a compound is alot higher due to this modern design, so if cost is an issue a recurve crossbow will suit well to get proficient in this ancient sporting pastime.
]]>The posts that Steve sends in to BushcraftLab - when he gets the chance given his hectic schedule (he’s still a serving member of the British armed forces) - will be relevant and timed to coincide with current seasonal foraging morsels to be found in the UK. Steve Aley will give us an in-depth look at what we can harvest from natures larder from the UK moors, river and canal banks, woodlands, open fields and coastal foraging.
In this first post, Steve introduces himself and just a few of the basic rules of foraging for wild edibles in the UK.
Greetings, I am Steve Aley (pronounced Ay-Lee), a survival instructor with over 19 years of military experience and adding to it daily. Amongst various assignments I have spent a period of time at the Defence SERE Training Organisation; in short, a number of years teaching survival across UK defence.
An area I have found to be a particular strength is the identification, preparation and consumption of wild edible plants. I would like to impart some of what I have learned upon you; I am very well aware that some of you reading this may be seasoned foragers, being an instructor I enter every lesson knowing that you never stop learning. See this as revision or maybe you will learn something new!
To kick off this series of blog posts I wish to cover some of the rudimentary ‘Rules’ the forager must obey, not only for safety, but also for legality and sustainability sake. Here goes:
I must reiterate, 100% identification is absolutely imperative. In the coming weeks I will be showing you various plants you can eat; my words are not carte blanche to munch away, invest in a good guide book, ideally two different ones or go foraging with someone who knows. I take no responsibility for what you put in your mouth, wild food or otherwise!
Until next time, safe foraging.
]]>It's important to be able to carry your bushcraft equipment safely, securely and comfortably and to help you make that happen, we're pleased to announce that we can now supply a range of Karrimor SF load carrying equipment.
Karrimor SF, or 'Karrimor Special Forces' to give them their full name, are renowned for supplying rucksacks for military use all around the globe so you can be sure that their rucksacks are designed well, tested in some of the toughest environments on Earth and are extremely well proven.
The Karrimor SF range includes everything from the ruggedised 'Upload' laptop bag through to a fantastic range of daypacks which start with the impressive 'X-Lite 15' and on to full sized Bergens.
Some of the more popular rucksacks in their range, at least for bush crafters, are the 30L to 45L daypacks which are suitable for long days out or short multi-day expeditions depending on where you want to travel and how much bushcraft and wild camping equipment you want to take.
Most of the rucksacks and daypacks in the KarrimorSF range are scaleable in that they're 'molle compatible' and many can be integrated with PLCE pouches to add a significant amount of storage space.
Over the coming months we will be featuring reviews and 'how to's' on some of the rucksacks and daypacks in the Karrimor SF range, specifically those which would be of most interest to the bushcraft community, but if you've got questions in particular about Karrimor SF rucksacks then please do get in touch and we'll do our absolute best to help you.
In the meantime, here's a link to a Karrimor SF video exploring Dartmoor National Park in Devon.
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The BushcraftLab blog has been dormant for over a year, ever since the store came under new ownership. When we took over the business we wanted to get the business right first; making sure that every product that we sell is of the highest quality and best price, making sure that everything that we provide for our customers has a proven track record in use, looking at the environmental impact of the products themselves and our suppliers (we're BIG supporters of #LNT!) and making sure that we have the absolute best logistical systems in place so that we can process, pack and post our orders in as short a time as possible so that your customers receive a fast and efficient service. We've still got a way to go and every day provides a learning opportunity and a chance to refine what we do, but we're trying hard and we're getting there.
We've now turned our attention to the Bushcraftlab blog and we're about to re-launch the pages in style.
We want the new BushcraftLab blog to become a trusted source of information for our customers. The blog will be bursting with everything from product reviews and tips to techniques, interviews and 'how to's' written by some of the world’s leading experts in bushcraft, survival, adventure travel, military product application and expeditions.
At BushcraftLab, we want to include our customers in everything that we do, so if there's anything in particular that you would like to see included in the blog, any questions that you need answered or any products that you'd like to see reviewed then please do get in touch and we'll try to make it happen for you.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this post, to engage with us on social media and for being a loyal customer and member of the BushcraftLab family.
We look forward to working with you and working for you to help you to enjoy life outdoors.
Best Wishes!
Gareth
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Bushcraft united kingdom covers a wide range of skills such as fire-lighting, cooking on an open fire, shelter building, uses of plants, finding and purifying water, and more outdoor lifestyle choices.
Humans have lost some of there links to the natural world, going back to a natural environment allows us to explore the world, allowing us to reach beyond our own expectations, and our views of the world.
We have found bushcraft can build confidence & bring people together, bushcraft allows us to focus more on ourselves and lose the modern day distractions we are now surrounded by.
More bushcraft camps and courses are popping up now in the UK as people embrace the great outdoors and the relaxation it brings to body and mind.
]]>Paracord literally has hundreds of uses in a survival situation such as shelter building, fishing, hunting as snares or lashing a spear, load carriage, lashing a raft, the list is endless.
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When we talk of genuine US Paracord, its the 7 strand gsa compliant Paracord, that's been tested to have a minimum breaking strain of 550lb (250kg).
Paracord literally has hundreds of uses in a survival situation such as shelter building, fishing, hunting as snares or lashing a spear, load carriage, lashing a raft, the list is endless.
Originally used as the name suggest as cord for parachutes, so you know it has to be seriously strong.
Camouflage patterns such as Desert Paracord or Woodland Paracord are new designs developed for recent military campaigns and in mainstream use now by airsoft players.
An essential item for any survival kit or bug out bag, a roll of paracord ideal for a camping trip or a bundle of 550 lb paracord slung in the boot of the car can be a life saver.
]]>The recent cryptosporidium parasite scare in lancashire highlights the need for preparing for the unexpected, some two weeks and still now the water supply has been infected with supermarkets selling out of bottled water, and residents warned to boil all water reminds us of a third world country situation.
]]>The recent cryptosporidium parasite scare in lancashire highlights the need for preparing for the unexpected, some two weeks and still now the water supply has been infected with supermarkets selling out of bottled water, and residents warned to boil all water reminds us of a third world country situation.
The need for advanced Water Filters is not just for camping trips or expeditions but today in the uk there is a real need, the water parasite is 10 times thinner than a human hair and causes stomach problems especially in the young or elderly.
The advice from united utilities is to boil all water that will be used for drinking or brushing teeth, but you can use one of the Sawyer Water Filters to remove the parasite safely without the need for boiling, the 4 litre home filter system point zero two water purifier works down to 0.02 micron absolute, basically this will not only stop all the bacteria and protozoa, also viruses with a removal rate of 99.9997%, the highest level of filtration available today.
]]>Be prepared
There’s a reason the boy scouts’ motto is “be prepared”. Even if you’re only intending to head out for a quick hike, sticking to clearly marked trails, you should still take a survival kit with you. It’s also important to take clothing you might need in case of a change in weather. In some parts of the world, the weather can change in an instant.
Tell someone
Don’t head out without telling someone where you’re going. Tell a friend, or the receptionist at your accommodation if you’re on holiday, where you intend to go and how long you plan to be there. That way, if you’re not back when you’re expected they’re likely to raise the alarm.
Find water
If you do become lost, the most important thing is to find water. Depending on the climate conditions, the human body can only survive for three days without water. Look for a water source that is clear and fast flowing. And, no matter how safe you believe it is, use the water purification filter from your survival pack.
Make a shelter
Even if weather conditions appear to be fine, building a shelter is imperative. You don’t want to be caught out in a blizzard or rainstorm. A shelter is also important for psychological reasons. Just having a shelter can instil a positive frame of mind.
Make a fire
If you’re being forced to camp out in cold weather, you’ll need a fire to stay warm. Again, a fire is often a mood lifter. Keep it small and away from your shelter.
Keep clean
If you’re out in the open and you’ve injured yourself, you need to keep your injury scrupulously clean to avoid any infection. Wash and disinfect any cuts, no matter how small, with alcohol or other medication from your first-aid kit.
Stay dry
Being wet is incredibly uncomfortable when you’re in a survival situation. Having built your shelter, stay under it if it rains, unless you really need to go out to get something. It can take an awfully long time for any clothing to dry around a camp fire.
Signal for help
As soon as you feel safe, have found water and made a shelter, think about how you can signal for help. The idea is you should be able to see your signal from the air. Make a huge cross out of material which contrasts in colour to the ground or make three fires, setting them out in a triangle.
Be hygienic
Keeping up hygiene standards is probably the last thing on your mind while trying to survive. But, if you become ill, surviving is going to become a whole lot harder. Designate a bathroom area away from your main site and away from any water source. Just like at home, wash your hands before preparing and eating food, if you have enough water to do so.
Stay calm
It’s easy to panic when you’re facing a life or death situation. But, it’s important to look after your mental, as well as your physical, health. Concentrate on the successes you have, like being able to find water or make a shelter, and keep telling yourself that as long as you concentrate on surviving, people are looking for you and they will find you.
By planning ahead and keeping a cool head if the worst does happen, you give yourself the best possible chance of survival.
For more details on this, check out our survival infographic.
]]>Whether you’re a budding Bear Grylls, rampaging through bushlands and rainforests, or simply enjoying a camping holiday with your loved ones, there is a good chance that you will need some tools in order to make your life a great deal easier.
]]>Whether you’re a budding Bear Grylls, rampaging through bushlands and rainforests, or simply enjoying a camping holiday with your loved ones, there is a good chance that you will need some tools in order to make your life a great deal easier.
Our knives and tools are great for a variety of uses, including general survival, shelter building and more, and if you want to get the best out of these tools when you’re out in the wilderness, you need to know which ones to purchase for the right task. There’s not much point buying a huge machete when you’re carrying a tiny backpack into the woods.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the various knives and tools on offer:
This knife is the go-to survival knife used by Special Forces units around the world. Forged from high carbon steel and finished with a textured powder coating and ring pommel, the Esee Izula II is superb little tool used to protect yourself in any terrain. Lightweight and compact, this knife has a 2.6” blade, and is 6.75” in total, so you can keep it close at all times.
When it comes to protection, you could do a lot worse than the Ka-Bar TDI LDK is as good as it gets. The blade length is 1.5” and the handle is 2”, making this small and compact knife the perfect tool to have in a boot or under a pack strap in case of an emergency. Made from plastic and weighing just 2.4oz (68 grams), you wouldn’t even know you had this on you, but you’ll be happy you did.
Cold Steel Mini Tac Skinner Knife
If you’re a keen camper and/or hiker, the Cold Steel Mini Tac Skinner knife is a must-have tool to have in your backpack or fanny pack. This incredibly tough knife can be used to cut ropes, make shelters and has a long curved cutting edge, which makes it perfect for skinning, if you need to make tools from wood or you have been hunting for food. It is also incredibly lightweight at just 2.1oz.
The KA-BAR Full Size USMC knife is the US Marine Corps knife of choice, and you don’t get many better recommendations for a tool than that. This knife comes with a leather sheath that bears the emblem of the Marine Corps too, which is a nice touch. The blade is 7 inches and High Carbon Steel 1095 Cro-Van, which is extremely heavy duty and won’t let you down in any given situation.
Anglo Arms Throwing Knives Triple Set
It’s important to remember that not all knives are made for survival in the wilderness, building shelters and fighting off bears in the mountains. There are knives that are invented for sport, like the Anglo Arms Throwing knives, which come in a set of three and are fantastic for folks who want to learn how to throw knives or who are already a dab hand in this field. This awesome set comes with a tactical pouch and have a cool, jet black colour styling.
Whatever your situation and no matter your need, always do your homework before you purchase a knife or survival tool, and read any instructions or literature that comes with it. You need to know how to use these tools adequately so you can get the best out of them, and if you are going out into the wilderness, having one of these tools by your side could make all the difference between enjoying yourself and finding yourself in a difficult situation.
]]>South Africa is an amazingly diverse country and many flock to camp there to see the wildlife and landscape. The Pilanesberg National Park is among one of the several areas where you can watch wildlife such as rhinos and wildebeest. Some people choose to visit South Africa before other parts of the continent as almost a third of the population speak English, making it easier for novice travellers.
The Outer Hebrides, a collection of islands located at the north west of Scotland are home to beautiful, unspoilt beaches and the Isle of Harris is a perfect location for soaking up the scenery and seal watching. Considering how far north it is, the climate tends to be quite cool and mild.
The Joshua Tree National Park in California is named after the Joshua trees that inhabit it, a flowering member of the agave family. You will have to pay for a pitch, but you will also get to see bright starry skies, hike and climb the rocky terrain and see a variety of flora and fauna.
The weather in Iceland is quite pleasant during the summer months and at certain times of the year you can see the amazing Northern Lights. Lake Myvatn is a naturally formed lake caused by a volcanic eruption and a popular site for campers as the flat surfaces make it very easy to pitch a tent. The lake is also home to 16 different species of duck.
Located just a short boat ride away from Hiroshima, Miyajima, which means ‘Island of Gods’, allows camping all year round. It is one of the most scenic spots in Japan thanks to its temples, historical monuments and shrines. There are also domesticated deer that roam the island.
Norway is full of natural beauty from mighty fjords to the Northern Lights, one can see why so many classic fairy tales are set there. Andøya is a popular camping spot as you can go whale watching and admire the landscape. Norway is also an exceptionally safe country making it ideal for those who have just started camping and feel nervous.
There are many different parts of Peru to explore, most notably Cordillera Huayhuash, one of the world’s best hiking trails. You can explore the Andes mountain range, visit the tiny villages, paddle up the Amazon and much more.
Australia is another country full of amazing places to go camping whether you want to completely rough it or try some softer ‘glamping’. The Mt Kaputar National Park in New South Wales hosts some spectacular views, in fact from the mountain itself you can see 10% of New South Wales.
Snowdonia may be a very obvious place to go camping in the UK but it is popular for a number of different reasons including the breathtaking views and the variety of terrains from sandy beaches to mountains.
With its glorious beaches and clear turquoise water, Sardinia is a haven if you like beach camping.
As with all kinds of camping, always check out if you can get permission to camp in certain places and whether or not you have to pay to pitch your tent. You can see the world on a shoestring by finding the best camping spots.
]]>There aren't many wild beasts more terrifying than a bear. A natural predator, human beings know that if they encounter a bear in the wild, there is a good chance that they are going to come off second best if that bear goes on the attack.
]]>There are different species of bears out there, and knowing the difference between the species could determine the likelihood of an attack and the behaviour coming from the bear. The most common types of bears are black bears, grizzly bears (AKA brown bears) and polar bears, and they all appear in different locations. For example, polar bears are only found in Alaska in the US, whereas some species of black bears can be found in Texas, California and New Mexico.
Black bears can weigh up to 650lbs+ (approx. 300kg), and can be as tall as 7 foot when standing on their back legs. Grizzlies are much larger, often weighing twice as much as the black bears (up to 1,500lbs (450kg)) in coastal areas, whereas the interior bears weigh around 1000lbs. The claws on a brown bear are long and curved, whereas the black bears claws are much shorter.
Male polar bears weigh around the same as the largest grizzlies, with females being about half the size, and both are found in the and around the Arctic Circle. A stunningly beautiful white bear, it is still a fearsome beast when crossing its food path or when you have intruded in its territory, and as the largest land-based carnivore, it is best not to get too close if you can help it. There have been reports of many attacks, and luck plays a huge part in whether you’ll survive an attack if it ever arises.
If you are intruding on a bear’s path to food, the attack is likely to be more vicious as they will see you as prey, and if this happens, you are unlikely to be able to play dead or intimidate the bear in order to make it leave you alone, which are useful if you come across a bear in the wild and they attack you because you are close to their cubs or have simply crossed their path at the wrong time.
Black bears that are startled or attacking defensively are likely to swat and bite, but are less likely to aim for the head or neck, unless they have stalked you for food, and in that case, they will attempt to use their weight to hold you down in order to bite you.
Brown bears are known to give off signals as to how serious their attack is going to be, including how far their ears slope backwards. The hair will also rise on the back of their neck and they will growl should an attack be imminent.
Polar bears are naturally predators who often see humans as food, and will attack without any pause for thought. When any attack occurs from any of these species of bears – and in particular if they attack you in your tent or in groups – it is important to give everything you have to escape, using all your might and any tools you have to hand. Acting like prey will not serve you well. It really is the survival of the fittest out there when a bear attacks.
Due to the size of a bear, humans are giving away any natural advantages, but there are protective measures, including what you wear. For example, a bear might attack you from behind, and if you are wearing multiple layers and a backpack, they are likely to go for this first, which could give you vital seconds to wriggle free of the attack and escape. In your tents, you should have equipment to hand that can be used to protect yourself too, including a flare gun and any poles, skis or anything else you can use to fight off an attack if it should arise.
It is also important to inform others that you have seen bears in the wild. For example, let local authorities know if you see any wild bears, especially around camp sites. They could be casing the area out and stalking prey, and just because they don’t attack your group, they could attack someone else. Letting people know that they are around gives both sides peace of mind, and can be the difference between an attack happening and it not.
]]>If the worst happened tomorrow and you had to evacuate your home and even the town you live in, would you be confident about your ability to survive in the wild?
Bugging out is basically surviving out in the wild and being good at it is part survival skills and part preparation so it is a good idea to start honing your survival skills now.
]]>If the worst happened tomorrow and you had to evacuate your home and even the town you live in, would you be confident about your ability to survive in the wild?
Bugging out is basically surviving out in the wild and being good at it is part survival skills and part preparation so it is a good idea to start honing your survival skills now.
When you first start preparing your bug out plan, there are three main points to consider-
1. Means of escape.
2. Safe location to go.
3. Survival kit.
Your means of escape can be any mode of transport from a rusty old bike to a land rover providing it will go when you need it to and you can get immediate access to it. The most obvious choice would be your car so you should make sure you keep a spare tire, a repair kit and some extra fuel in the trunk. Your means of transport will also play a big part in deciding where your safe location is; your chosen location should be several miles away from your home so that you are away from the danger that has driven you from it but still close enough to reach without having to top up fuel so you do not have to stop and you have spare fuel should you need to relocate.
When choosing a safe location to evacuate to, bear in mind that you will need to access a fresh, clean water supply and the potential to set up a means of communication. There are different opinions on whether or not you should gather to a place where other people are likely to go to. On one hand, it is useful to have other people around to pool resources and skills but some argue that other people can be dangerous once resources start to run out. Wooded areas can be better for natural resources but can require more survival skills so your skill set and reason for evacuation will help determine where you go.
Your bug out bag should be durable yet light enough to not weigh you down too much, and contain supplies to last you for 72 hours. One of the most important things to pack is water, aim for 1 litre per person per day. Matches are a useful addition as you need a means for making fire, but always have a backup such as a flint and steel. Your bug out bag should also contain a basic first aid kit, dehydrated and non-perishable foods such as protein bars, the kind of clothing you would take on a backpacking trip, means of forming a shelter, such as a tarpaulin and a ground sheet and something that can be both a weapon and a tool like a small hatchet.
A camping trip with minimal supplies and home comforts is a great dress rehearsal for your bug out bag and strategy so you can make sure you have everything you need to survive and practise various skills like fire building and trap-setting.
Remember, if you fail to prepare, prepare to fail.
]]>Orienteering and compass skills are obviously useful for people interested in competitive and recreational orienteering as well as being handy life skills to have if you are planning a camping holiday or are cycling or walking through the country.
]]>Orienteering and compass skills are obviously useful for people interested in competitive and recreational orienteering as well as being handy life skills to have if you are planning a camping holiday or are cycling or walking through the country.
Before you start out, familiarise yourself with maps so you are comfortable reading them. As we have become so use to using Google Maps and other kinds of satellite navigation, very few of us actually use traditional maps until it is the last resort so get used to reading the different aspects of an old fashioned paper map such as the scale and the key.
Maps designed for walkers typically have a 1:25,000 scale (the scale will be stated on the map) so you can use this and a ruler to predetermine the length of your journey. The map will also have a ‘legend’ which a key used to identify different elements of the land such as trees and rivers and a compass direction to indicate where north will be, this will help you make the connection between what you are seeing on the map and the direction your compass is indicating. Maps are divided into a grid based on the National Grid references so you can work out the longitude and latitude of your destination.
However, you cannot just use your compass straight away; the red end of the compass needle points to magnetic north, which is always different depending on where in the world you are and the time of year whilst maps are based on map grid north. Luckily your map will state the difference that you need to adjust your compass by, which will be a few degrees east or west and you simply rotate the degree dial accordingly. Even if the difference does not seem that much it can add up to hundreds of feet when translated into real distance.
Your compass is actually a multi-tool whilst orienteering and is designed to go hand in hand with your map; the compass housing, the circle that the needle is in, will have lines of orientation that you can use to line up with your map and the base plate that supports it has arrows to help indicate the direction you are heading as well as scales to help you translate your map and work out the six figure grid reference. A good compass will also have a small magnifying glass to help you read the map with ease and a circular hole to use as a stencil on your map to mark out the various points you will be travelling to. Once your compass is aligned, stand holding it with the direction of travel arrow pointing directly in front of you and walk in a circle until the compass needle and orienteering arrow in the compass housing have lined up.
Now that you have got to grips with your compass you can begin your orienteering journey. Make sure that your map is folded so that it is easy to handle and locate your points of destination then rotate it so that it is in line with the direction of your compasses. Most people use their thumb to keep a track of where they are on the map and their control points. You should always refer back to your control card to make sure it matches the various control points that you will meet on your route. Once you have learned the basic skills, orienteering is an enjoyable activity that gets you outside and encourages basic skills.
We often hear about survival of the fittest but when put in unnatural or unfamiliar situations our instincts and skills could be what keep us alive. So if you are destined to be out in the wilderness make sure that you have some knowledge of what you may come up against and you are equipped with the right gear.
]]>Much like berries, mushrooms also require careful identification and are best avoided unless you have a lot of prior knowledge especially as poisonous ones can very closely resemble safe ones.
Certain types of leaves and weeds are also edible, for example dandelions and clovers are both safe to eat and edible, however they are best avoided in areas such as public recreational grounds as they are likely to have been sprayed with pesticides. Nettles are plentiful and edible but need to be heated before being eaten to neutralise their irritating acid so they are only really a viable option if you have means to make a fire. Even if a wild plant is edible, everybody will have different reactions to eating them, especially if you have never tried them before so always try a bit and wait a couple of hours before you eat any more of it.
Remember that fresh, clean water is also vital for survival but, much like wild foods, is equally as dangerous if you are not careful. Avoid any stagnant water such as ponds and puddles; it should be clear and flowing. You can boil the water before drinking which kills a lot of bacteria but this is not completely foolproof. If you keep sandwich bags in your back pack, you can put these on branches overnight to collect dew which, although it won’t be a lot of water, will be a fresh supply. The weather even in the UK should not be underestimated and getting lost or stuck somewhere you can quickly become cold especially at night.
Surviving in the wilderness requires some background knowledge and common sense, but as long as you do your research beforehand and try to keep a calm head you will be able to cope until you find your way home.
Make sure you are kitted out with all the correct survival gear.
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