American Survival Guide 2014 09

CAN YOU REALLY TRUST YOUR CITY’S RESOURCES? HOW TO GET OFF THE GRID NOW

PREPPER VITALS MASTERING MAP AND COMPASS SKILLS PREP FOR UNEXPECTED TRAVEL 3 SCENARIOS, 3 WAYS

SPECIAL SECTION HOW TO HUNT ETHICALLY ETHICALLY

ON THE MOVE HOW TO BUILD AN ALCOHOL STOVE

UNDERSTANDING LAND STEWARDSHIP FOR FUTURE SURVIVAL 5 LEVELS OF OUTDOOR SKILL

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AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE (ISSN 2331-8937) Volume 3, Number 5 is published 9 times a year – January, February, April/May, June, July, August, September, September, November, December by Beckett Media, LLC, 22840 Savi Ranch Pkwy., Suite 200, Yorba Linda, CA 92887.

POSTMASTER: send address changes to American Survival Guide c/o

Beckett Media, 4635 McEwen Road, Dallas, TX 75244. © 2014 by Beckett Media,

LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. GST #855050365RT001 Canada Post: Publications Mail Agreement #40612608. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: PITNEY BOWES, INC. P.O. Box 25542 London, ON N6C 6B2. 4

AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE

VOLUME 3, ISSUE 5 | SEPTEMBER 2014

FEATURES GENERAL

84 YOU ARE HERE HERE

PREPAREDNESS

Navigation old-school: maps and compasses. By Tony Nester

19 INTRODUCTION 20 TYING THE KNOT

Learning to tie knots can come in handy if you’re in a bind. By Torrey Kim 24 DENTAL DISTRESS

What to do if you have a toothache in an emergency situation. By Garrett Kim 28 GRUB GEAR

88 THE POWER OF PLANTS

Identify five wild edibles to use for survival food. By Tony Nester

URBAN PREPAREDNESS

Essential cooking supplies for bugging out.

98 TRANSIT TIPS

Make sure you prep well so you can rest easy when you travel. By Tony Nester

Get the inside scoop on Discovery Channel’s “Naked and Afraid” Star E.J. Snyder. By Torrey Kim 38 STOVE SEMINAR

DIY: Alcohol stoves are easy to carry and economical to use. By Steven Paul Barlow

HOMESTEADING PREPAREDNESS

42 FISHING RODS 52 FOOD AND WATER 74 TACTICAL 74 TACTICAL BELTS 92 EMERGENCY BLANKETS 110 GLOVES

97 INTRODUCTION

By Torrey Kim 34 SURVIVAL CELEBRITY

BUYER’S GUIDES

4 2

102 RESOURCE REPORT

Determine if your city’s water and air are safe, and what to do if they’re not. By Garrett Kim

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104 RADIO ACTIVE

A ham radio can be a lifesaver if the grid goes down. By Garrett Kim 108 SUPPLY CENTRAL

Nitro-Pak has what you need to get prepped. By Michael D’Angona

58 INTRODUCTION 60 PRESERVE TO CONSERVE

How to utilize a bumper crop and save for emergencies. By Amber Erickson Gabbey 63 RAISING RABBITS

A perfect way to provide protein on a homestead. By Michele Doele 66 THE GOOD LIFE The Vehicle:

Plan B Supply’s 1986 Expandable 6x6 Command Center PlanBSupply.com On Our Model:

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The off-grid Craft family shares its tips and tricks. By Steven Paul Barlow 70 FORMIDABLE FORTRESS

Design your own dream home with Liberty Custom Log Homes. By Torrey Kim

WILDER WILD ERNE NESS SS

STEWARDSHIP 115 INTRODUCTION 116 A MATTER OF ETHICS

If you hunt to survive, make higher principles your guide. We have to use the land to survive, but we must treat it well for future generations. 122 GROWTH CHART

Find out what phase of being an outdoorsperson you’re in and how to get to the next level.

COLUMNS

78 INTRODUCTION

FIRST WORDS 6 NEW PRODUCTS 8 NEWS & NOTES 12 GEAR REVIEW 16 PREPPING WITH RALSTON 128 CLOSING WORDS 130

If you’re lost in the wild, you can still get rescued the “old-fashioned” way. By Michael Neiswender

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119 THE GOOD EARTH

PREPAREDNESS

79 SIMPLE SOLUTIONS

7 4

SPECIAL SECTION:

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FIRSTWORDS FIRST WORDS BY BARRI SEGAL VOLUME 3, ISSUE 5 / SEPTEMBER 2014

EDITORIAL Editorial Directior: Jennifer Degtjarewsky Editor-in-Chief: Barri Segal Managing Editors: Kari Windes, Breanna Armstrong Senior Creative Director: Eric Knagg Art Director: Director: Jesse Cao

TYING IT ALL TOGETHER — OR KNOT JUST BECAUSE YOU CAN CAN TIE something together, doesn’t mean you’ve used the right knot. In 2012, Yosemite climbing legend John Long was seriously hurt hurt at a Los Angeles gym when his bowline knot came undone during a demonstration. That same year the exact same mistake killed 73-year-old British climber David Rothman. Unfortunately, this happens to some poor climber almost every year. So knowing this, why keep using this knot? How about just using a better knot? A climber’s alternative is the figure eight, which suffers from a reputation for being a bear to untie. Psychoanalytically speaking, this strikes me as nutty logic. In Lacanian terms, angst motivates angst motivates the selection of a bowline knot; it’s easier albeit riskier, but you’re in a hurry and maybe even a little stressed. Desire motivates using the figure-eight follow-through knot, because its uber -reliability -reliability offsets the extra effort needed for untying it. Isn’t that exactly the kind of knot you want to trust your life with? What kind of knot ties you to survivalism? Loose or secure? Based on fear or lifestyle? FEAR VERSUS LIFESTYLE

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How many times do I read “survivalists are preparing for the collapse of society”? Such prepper-energizing events range from 9/11 to whatever’s up with the One World Order to unem-

ployment conspiracy to Syrian WMDs to the cable news’ catastrophes-of-theweek. It’s all so much more exciting than “survivalists like food.” The image of preppers acting out of fear of impending events is a hackneyed reality-show cliché. Above all, prepping is about enjoying life even if really bad things happen. While it may be true that survivalists should be prepared for social disintegration, it is a bigger deal to simply not be vulnerable in the first place. Why? Because disintegration is a constant. I live in earthquake country and am confident that I have my family covered. With disasters such as Sandy, Katrina, Northridge… none were exactly The End Times, but we’re talking weeks and months when plenty of people wished they had purchased a generator or stocked up on food and water, had personal protection, and even just extra clothes. I do believe that eventually there may be an event that shakes the foundation as we know it, but I ultimately just want to preserve preserve the way of life my family needs to flourish. I choose to take care of them, rather than trust that society will if something happens. In this month’s issue there’s something for every need. Find out more about alternative transportation, griddown communications, cooking, storage, dental first aid, urban and wilderness prep… there is even a bit of proactive knot making, of course.

Resources: Fink, Bruce, The Lacanian Subject: Between Language and Jouissance (Princeton University Press, 1996), ISBN 978-0-691-01589-7 978-0-691-01589-7

A M E R I C A N S U R V I V AL AL G U I D E

CONTRIBUTORS Sean Cooper, Mike D’Angona, Amber Erickson Gabbey, Torrey Kim, Alex LaGrand, Tony Nester, Tim Ralston, Larry Schwartz, Tori Tellem, Gary Carter

ADVERTISING Gabe Frimmel - Ad Sales Director (714) 200-1930 - [email protected] Casey Clifford - Senior Account Executive (717) 896-8956 Mark Pack - Senior Account Executive (714) 200-1939 Gennifer Merriday - Ad Traffic Coordinator

DIRECT MARKETING GROUP John Bartulin Paul Caca Ryan Lauro Mary Ann Jaca

(866) 866-5146 ext. 2746 (866) 866-5146 ext. 4961 (866) 866-5146 ext. 2756 (866) 866-5146 866-5146 ext 2716

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K C O T S K N I H T Y B O T O H P

AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE GUIDE (ISSN 2331-8937) Volume 3, Number Number 5 is published 9 times a year year – January, February, April/May, June, July, August, September, November, December by Beckett Media, LLC, 22840 Savi Ranch Pkwy., Suite 200, Yorba Linda, CA 92887. POSTMASTER: send address changes to American Survival Guide c/o Beckett Media, 4635 McEwen Road, Dallas, TX 75244. © 2014 by Beckett Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. GST #855050365RT001 Canada Post: Publications Mail Agreement #40612608. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: PITNEY BOWES, INC. P.O. Box 25542 London, ON N6C 6B2.

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BECKETT MEDIA, LLC Nick Singh: Executive Director Jennifer Degtjarewsky: Group Editorial Director & Business Unit Director This magazine is purchased by the buyer with the understanding understanding that information presented is from various sources from which there can be no warranty or responsibility responsibility by Beckett Media, LLC as to the legality, completeness or technical accuracy.

NEWPRODUCTS NEW PRODUCTS C U T T I N G - E D G E I N N O V AT AT I O N

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1. SURVIVAL STRAPS PRODUCT: Survival Bracelets WEBSITE: SurvivalStraps.com MSRP: $19.95-S35.95

2. REACTOR PRODUCT: Gryphon WEBSITE: ReactorWatch.com MSRP: $350

3. BUCK KNIVES PRODUCT: Crosslock Hoofpick WEBSITE: BuckKnives.com MSRP: $90

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• Made from durable woven paracord • 16 feet of usable cord that unwinds into 24 feet • Fully customizable

• 10-year lithium power cell • 42mm case • Depth tested to 200 meters • Solid forged 316L stainless steel or titanium case

• Durable • Lightweight • 3-inch partially serrated, spear-point blade

Defining Features: Created with specially woven

paracord, Survival Straps Survival Bracelets can be unwound and transformed into a durable, multi-purpose rope. SurvivalStraps can be customized with dog tags embossed with military identification, medical information, a name or favorite quote. This is an easy way to carry paracord—which can come in mighty handy in a bugout situation—without taking up any room at all except on your wrist!

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Defining Features: A family favorite has been Defining Features: Are you sick and tired of your wristwatch breaking? breaking? If you’re looking for a heavyduty watch, Reactor Gryphon is the watch for you. This watch claims to be the toughest tactical watch ever created. The Gryphon is a hybrid watch combining a space-age Nitromid cover, a glass-reinglass-reinforced polymer with a tensile strength higher than steel and a stainless steel core. The result is a watch with improved durability and impact resistance that has the watertight capabilities of a fully stainless steel version, all at half the weight.

updated revamped. The Crosslock Hoofpick now offers a hoof pick and modified spear-point blade. The textured handle has added features for an easy grip, with or without gloves. Weighing in at a total weight of only 4 ounces, the Crosslock Hoofpick is durable yet lightweight for everyday carry. You can easily pack in back in its nylon sheath and it also includes a belt clip for pocket carry. The blade is perfect for everyday use and features one-hand opening and closing.

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6 4. SECUR PRODUCTS PRODUCT: Sun Power Bank 6000 WEBSITE: SecurProducts.com MSRP: $129

5. KOSMO COOLERS PRODUCT: Safe Keeper Storage Vault WEBSITE: K-LineProd.com MSRP: $30.99

6. CRKT PRODUCT: Hoodwork Survival Fixed Blade WEBSITE: CRKT.com MSRP: $295

Specifications:

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• Dual high-efficiency solar panels for fast charging • High-capacity lithium polymer battery • Dual female USB ports for charging any digital devices—charge iPhone and iPad at the same time • Built-it full-size and mini male USB cable and plu—no cables to carry • Built-in micro USB for charging via any USB power source • LCD display screen indicator for current battery charge • Water resistant and built to travel

• Hermetically sealed • Leakproof, puncture resistant • Available in 12- and 18-gallon sizes • Made from 100-percent virgin Polypropylene • Carry handle on lid and carry grip-molded sides • Stackable

• Blade: edge: combination • Length: 6.130 inches • Steel: 1095 high-carbon, 56-58 HRC • Thickness: 0.160 inch • Finish: acid etch, sandblast, ceramic coating • Weight: 4.0 ounces

Defining Features: Keeping prized and valuable

Defining Features: Survival expert, Karen Hood,

possessions in a vault is an intelligent, safe and secure decision, especially in any kind of emergency scenario. The Safe Keeper Storage Vault is a hermetically sealed, leakproof vault created to protect important documents and hold personal emergency supplies. It’s constructed from a thick, “no-break” polypropylene, allowing it to hold heavy objects such as canned foods and ammo. The durable frame also enables you to stack it without affecting its structural integrity, which is great when you need to maximize space.

offers a super knife to keep by your side in the great outdoors. It’s made of high-carbon steel for ruggedness and durability, and it can withstand all that Mother Nature can dish out, including wind, rain and sleet. Each knife is handcrafted and includes a corrosion-resistant ceramic coating. The scales are removable so you can lighten the load and wrap the handle with paracord.

Defining Features: Harness the power of solar

energy to charge your smart phone, tablet, MP3 player, iPod, GPS, camera or other digital device on the go. This is the ultimate solar panel: it provides 21.5-percent efficiency with broad light spectrum and up to twice the charging power of traditional solar cells. It provides long-lasting charges, you can recharge a smart phone twice and a cell phone up to six times without recharging the battery.

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SWEDISH FIREKNIFE ITEM #03-0197

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Texas Disaster BETWEEN VOLCANOES, tornadoes, hurricanes, avalanches and blizzards, it seems like every state in the U.S. has its share of natural disasters. But if you’ve ever wondered just which state suffers the most, Texas has that distinction. That’s the word from an NBC News study of the major disasters that have struck in this country over the past 60 years. With Texas being situated by the coast and also being one of the largest states in the U.S., it has suffered, “at least one major disaster” every year, the study

showed. Since 1953, Texas has declared 86 major disasters. California holds the distinction of coming in second, with 78 major disasters in the same time period, followed by Oklahoma, New York, Florida, Louisiana, Alabama, Kentucky, Arkansas and Missouri. Takeaway: No state is immune from natural disasters, but if you’re planning to settle down and trying to find the safest spot, consider the statistics and steer clear of the more disaster-prone areas.

E F I L R O O D T U O F O Y S E T R U O C O T O H P

Read And Get Ready WHEN YOU THINK about preparing for “anything,” your mind probably immediately goes to the danger you fear most— whether it’s a tornado, an EMP, a nuke or chemical warfare, you probably have an idea of what you’d do if that one specific disaster happens. But to truly prepare for anything, you need a well-rounded set of skills. That’s where the Prepare for Anything Survival Manual comes in; you can discover 333 essential skills within the pages of Tim MacWelch’s extremely comprehensive comprehensive book. Lightweight and easy to carry on your next trek, the book should be required reading for any survivalist who wants to be able to get out of a tight spot. My favorite parts of the book offered instructions I’ve never seen anywhere else. For example, MacWelch guides you on topics from how to build a water turbine. You’ll also learn how to hold a gun, and make an animal trap. In other words, pretty much everything you’ll ever need to know to ensure your family makes it out of any situation alive. —ED


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A M E R I C A N S U R V I V AL AL G U ID ID E

YOU CAN FIND MACWELCH’S BOOK, BOOK, WHICH COSTS $27, ON AMAZON.COM.

Treehouse Test IF YOUR VISION of an outdoor life includes an eventual future living in a treehouse, now is your chance to try one out for size. The Treehouse Point facility in Fall City, Wash. (just outside of Seattle) allows you to spend the night in a functional treehouse so you can decide if the “high life” is right for you. When you make a decision about whether the treehouse getaway is a good start to what you want to be a permanent sky-high adventure, you can check out the Nelson Treehouse & Supply facility, which is right on the same property. Nelson offers treehouse building supplies as well as design plans so you can get started on your retreat as soon as possible. To check out the company’s offerings, visit: TreeHousePoint.com TreeHousePoint.com..


Hurricane Plan


WE’RE IN THE thick of hurricane season right now, which spans annually from June 1 to Nov. 30. If you think you’re covered because you’ve typed out a plan and emailed it to your family members, think again. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) “strongly recommends that you print all important resources before a hurricane strikes,” the agency says. “Power outages during and after a hurricane can prevent you from accessing information online when you most need it.” Your plan should include the steps you’ll take in preparing for a storm, including placing wood on your windows and moving your deck furniture indoors. In addition, you should have paper maps that show you your best evacuation route, and have enough gas to power any automobiles or generators you have on-hand. If you do plan to use generators to keep your refrigerator or fans running after a hurricane, remember to place them outside at least 20 feet away from the house so you prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Takeaway: If you create a comprehensive comprehensive hurricane strategy now, you won’t be surprised if a storm strikes in the near future.

S E P T E M B E R

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Survival Trash IT’S BEEN SAID that one man’s trash is another’s treasure, but that statement was never more true than in June, when a 74-year-old Florida woman survived in the woods by eating granola bars and drinking soda left over in discarded bottles. In addition to her foraging skills, the woman also created a makeshift camp by filling a plastic bag with leaves and using it as a pillow, according according to the UK Daily Mail , which reported on the survival story. The woman had granola bars in her purse, but did not have a cell phone or other signaling device when she left home and headed into the woods. Although she suffered from dehydration and bug bites, the woman was otherwise healthy when she was found on the side of the road while trying to flag down help. Takeaway: No matter how long you plan to be out for a hike, a walk or a hunt in the woods, take a communication or signaling device, a means of hydration, and some food. In addition, get your bearings if you don’t know the trail well, and consider taking along a map or compass.


Wildfire Prep Kit BUILDING A HOME in the forest (or near one) seems idyllic in every way, except one: the risk of wildfires grows the closer you are to the woods. When the summer and fall are dry, wildfires are more likely to occur and they can spread quickly, putting everything in their path at risk. If you live in a wildfire-prone area, you should create an emergency kit now, says the Federal Emergency Management Agency. It should include food, water, medications, and other supplies that you’d need for at least 72 hours when you have to evacuate from a fire. In addition, know that your electricity, gas, water, and sewage treatment could be offline for up to a week or longer, FEMA says. Therefore, your supply kit should include jugs of water, blankets in case your heat is off, and flashlights. Takeaway: Be aware of the wildfire risk in your region, and have all of the supplies you’d need to stay safe if one hits.

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GEARREVIEW GEAR REVIEW

PACK IT UP UP Putting Randall’ Randall’ss Adventure Training/ESEE Knives’ New Survival Pack To The Test TEXT AND PHOTOS BY TERRILL BY TERRILL HOFFMAN HOFFMAN

FEW ANTICIPAT ANTICIPATE E the sudden, and often life-changing, events that can occur at a moment’s notice. As a reader of American Survival Guide, however, you’re one of those select few who realize that life is not perfect and plans for the unexpected. A good survival kit is simply a must if you want to prepare properly. Charged with testing Randall’s Adventure Training/ESEE Knives new offering in this arena, I put it through its paces and lived to tell about it. THE PACK

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By the time you’re reading this issue, the kits should be available to the public; they are in the final stages of testing as I write this. I was fortunate to get my hands on one to try out. Fashioned from heavy nylon in either blaze orange or olive drab, the main compartment of the bag is about 8 inches wide, 12 inches long and 6 inches deep. Made in the U.S., it’s good bit larger than the traditional pocket kit and is designed to be slung over the shoulder as a small daypack or attached to a larger pack. There is a carry handle at the top and molle-style webbing on the back to attach additional gear or facilitate other carry options. The bag has a secondary pocket sewn on the outside and a removable tri-fold ID/map case.


“A GOOD SURVIVAL KIT IS SIMPLY A MUST IF YOU WANT TO PREPARE PROPERLY.”

The secondary zippered pocket is 8½ inches long, 5 inches wide and 1½ inches deep. The heavy-duty zipper on the main compartment enables you to open it fully and gain instant access to any item. Once opened, there is a nylon, netted pouch on the underside of the flap. Two smaller, specialized pouches reside in the main body of the pack.

CONTENTS Any kit is only as good as its components, and Randall has chosen only quality gear for this model. The secondary pocket holds a C-Light by ACR Electronics, Inc. (an emergency signal light that’s Coast Guard approved and can be viewed from a distance of two miles) and a Thin H Bandage that’s sealed for sterility. (I suggest you obtain a second bandage, open it and practice with it prior to an emergency.) The main compartment houses an ESEE 4 fixed-blade knife with a Kydex sheath, which is simply one of the best survival/utility blades on the market. The side of the main compartment features a 60 x 60-inch blaze orange nylon signal panel that serves as signaling aid and/or a small tarp to provide cover; you can even use its attached snaps to create a mattress by stuffing it with leafy debris. Two emergency survival blankets by NDuR are included, as well as two packs of Utility Flame tender gel. Four 1-quart plastic bags are included for gathering water and two 1.5-mil yellow trash bags can act as emergency ponchos, shelters or ground cloths. Little needs to be said about the usefulness of the 25 feet of 8mm Prusik rope and Black Diamond load-rated karabiner in the kit. One pocket in the main compartment contains a survival fishing kit by Best Glide ASE and two sets of valuable information cards printed by Randall Adventure and Training that can help with land navigation and basic survival info. The other main compartment pocket houses an aluminum mess tin by Trangia. This kit

consists of a rectangular pot with a folding handle and cover that are suitable for cooking or boiling water for purification. Inside you’ll find a host of useful objects, including a Swedish FireSteel, Brunton compass, safety matches, emergency signal mirror and Fresnel lens, Victorinox “Hiker” pocket knife, wire saw, water purification tablets and two Brite Strike Green APALS lights. The rest of the items in the kit consist of smaller items like a Kevlar trip line, duct tape, Tinder Quik fire tabs, snare wire, an emergency whistle, orange survey tape, two sewing needles, a Ranger Band and a lead pencil. I talked to the kit makers and they stressed that they intend this to be a foundation for your prep needs and that each individual should tailor it by adding additional gear to fit his or her needs.

PLAY TIME Before starting on my journey, I added my favorite aluminum water bottle, some smaller bandages, a few packages of soup mix and 20 feet of 550 cord to the kit. Then, for the next week I carried the kit with me everywhere I went. If I went for a walk, I would throw it over my shoulder and while going to town to check the post office, I would toss it in the car. The bag became my constant companion; no matter how good a survival kit is, it’s useless if you leave it at home. One evening I chose to try out the C-Light by riding up the mountain on my ATV while my wife kept watch off of the front porch. She could follow my path to the top, which is a distance of just more than a mile. As long as we had line-of-sight, the light was good to go. As a side note: I keep a Photon LED light around my neck 24/7 and have done so for years. This should supply most of any needed light around a campsite and save the batteries of the C-Light for the intended purpose of signaling. The next morning I used the signal mirror to attract the attention of a neighbor who lives on a ridge four

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[1] The tarp can serve as a signal panel, lean-to shelter or ground cloth. Once the sides are snapped together and it is stuffed with glass or leaves, it even makes a decent mattress. [2] On a sunny day sunny day a Fresnel lens only takes moments to heat tinder to the ignition point. Don’t forget that if you have glasses, the lens can act as a magnifier. [3] Included with this kit is an ESEE-4 fixed blade knife. As a do-everything utility blade, this knife cannot be beat. If you have looked at the small emergency fishing kits and thought they were nothing but a gimmick; you’re wrong. These were caught in fewer than 30 minutes with just the line and a small fly. [4] The removable map case and compass supplied with the kit are worth their weight in gold. Learn the proper use of both before you need them.

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GEARREVIEW GEAR REVIEW

miles away. I think he was rather shocked with how bright such a small mirror can be. One thing to keep in mind is that there is a minor learning curve involved in using a signal mirror. You should practice now because during the few moments that rescue plane is flying over your location is no time to pull out the instructions. I’ve done it thousands of time, but starting a campfire always gives me a little peace of mind. The kit provides two methods of fire starting, but I put away the matches and chose my favorite method: the fire steel. The highlight of my testing came with the fishing kit. Going fishing is fun. Going fishing when you need to depend on it to eat? Not so much. It only took about 30 minutes at my pond to have enough fish for a meal. Granted, they were all small and I wouldn’t have any of them mounted, but when you’re hungry, size doesn’t matter. All in all, I practiced with the new kit for more than a week and tried out most of the items supplied. None of them failed to work as intended and I cannot think of any that I would replace.

THE JURY’S IN The new kit by Randall’s Adventure and Training should be on the market in no time. At the moment there is no suggested retail price, but it’s aiming to make the price reasonable. The entire kit will be worth the expense, but you also have the option of buying just the pack and using the kit as a guideline to creating your own. Planning for the unexpected is being smart, not paranoid. This kit is one of the most intelligent choices you can make.

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Terrill Hoffman fell in love with the outdoors when he became an Eagle Scout in the 1960s. He is a freelance writer and found and host of PWYP (Practice What You Preach), an annual gathering of survival enthusiasts from across the nation. He lives with his wife at the Chestnut Mountain proving grounds in the foothills of N.C.


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[5] The zipper on the main compartment enables you to fully open the bag to expose its contents. [6] The Victorinox “Hiker” pocketknife is a tool of legend. The saw blade will make the finer cuts needed to fashion a snare trigger. [7] [7] A A simple signal mirror mirror no bigger bigger than a playing card reacts like a beacon onc e the sun strikes its surface. [8] The kit comes with with two lights, but but they have specific specific uses. I would add in a small small Photon to expand my options. Adding a few spare batteries is another good idea. [9] [9] With With half half a dozen attachment rings and five rows of webbing, the kit can be carried several different ways. Even if you are carrying a larger pack, this kit can be easily attached.

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CONTACT INFORMATION Randall’s Adventure & Training / ESEE Knives P.O. Box 99 Gallant, AL 35972 • (256) 613-0372 • ESEEKnives.com • JungleTraining.com

IN THIS SECTION

KNOT MAKING

+

DENTAL FIRST AID

+

EJ SNYDER INTERVIEW

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MORE

IMPROVISE TO SURVIVE Tips And Tricks To Make Things Work In The Toughest Of Circumstances COULD YOU SURVIVE in the wild with nothing but the clothes on your back? How about if you had a knife? Some rope? It’s hard to imagine how we’d survive without the comfort of a sturdy tent or a ready-to-eat meal by the fire, but to truly be a survivalist, we should all know a few basics that can help us get out of a bind if nature decides to strike back and we’re armed without our gear. Unforeseen circumstances like spoiled food, a frayed rope or tooth pain can knock plans on their backsides, forcing us to improvise exactly what we’d do in a truly dire situation. On the following pages, you’ll find solutions to your knot-making struggles, information on what to do about dental first aid, the basics on survivalist cooking gear, and an inside look at how survivalist EJ Snyder has survived on several television shows without even the clothes on his back.


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GENERAL

TYING THE

KNOT LEARN WHICH KNOTS WILL GET YOU OUT OF A BIND IN A SURVIVAL SITUATION BY TORREY KIM

I

F YOU THINK THAT KNOT TYING IS ONLY A USEFUL SKILL FOR SAILORS AND RAPPELLERS, IT’S TIME TO THINK BACK TO YOUR LAST TRIP INTO THE BACKCOUNTRY. BACKCOUNTRY. Whether you’re pitching a tent, tying tomatoes to a stake or securing crab traps, you’ll need to know how to tie a few basic knots to ensure that you don’t lose your gear. To help you determine which types of knots work best for your survival needs, we turned to Navy veteran Andrew Campbell, who spent 20 years teaching survival skills and now lives on a boat, where he finds uses for knot tying every day. KNOT VERSUS HITCH

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If you’re tying your rope to something—like you would do when you secure a rope to two trees and hang your tarp over it for shelter—then you technically might not be using a knot at all, Campbell says. “If you’re tying the line to something, it’s usually called a ‘hitch,’” he says. “A knot is when you tie the line to itself. Knot tying is considered more common for maritime uses while hitches are extremely useful on land. But both would be important for survivalists,” he adds. In addition, you’ll often use a “bend,” which can tie two different ropes together.


MANUAL DEXTERITY If you’re holding on to a ledge and you need to rescue someone who fell down it, you don’t have two hands available to tie a knot. But there are knots that can be tied with just one hand, the most well-known and useful of which is the bowline. “You can tie this with one hand if you practice,” Campbell says. Therefore, after learning the bowline tying method, practice tying it with just one hand. Then, if you really want to increase your survival skills, practice tying it with the other hand—your non-dominant one. That way, you’re better prepared for any survival situation.


“YOU CAN TIE A BOWLINE KNOT WITH ONE HAND IF YOU PRACTICE.” —SURVIVAL EXPERT ANDREW CAMPBELL

For example, you would commonly use a square knot (also known as a “reef knot”) to tie two ends of a rope together or to tie a rope around an item (for instance, a sleeping bag) to keep it secure. The square knot is great for this purpose because you can c an easily undo it when you need to access the item quickly. (Image 1) If, however, you needed to tie your horse to a post on your homestead, you might benefit from a clove hitch, which allows you to quickly tie the rope to an item and then release it quickly when you need to get on the road. (Image 2) FIVE TIES

Anyone living the survival lifestyle should know at least five knot-tying techniques, Campbell says—but which knots you learn will depend on what you’re doing. “Without knowing someone’s purpose, I’d advise they learn the five most general

PRACTICE 1

Even if you’ve practiced for hours and you’re sure you know your knots, don’t wait until you’re in a survival situation to test them out. Holding your body weight above a cliff isn’t for novices, nor is tying your entire bug-out pack to the top of a car and hoping it stays there. Always test your knot-making abilities at home during your survival drills to make sure you don’t need extra pointers before heading into the wild. 2

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TYING THE

KNOT

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“ANYONE LIVING THE SURVIVAL LIFESTYLE SHOULD KNOW AT LEAST FIVE KNOT-TYING TECHNIQUES.”

the figure eight knot in both boating and climbing situations is that it gets tighter when weight is applied to the end, thus allowing you to be sure of its security. (Image 4) The sheet bend ties quickly and is a great way to tie two lines together if they fray apart or if you just need a rope longer than the one you have. “If you have two lines of the same size, a reef knot can typically secure them together, but if they’re different sizes, you usually need a sheet bend,” Campbell says. (Image 5) A taut line hitch is extremely useful when holding down your tent lines, hanging a hammock or securing a load of supplies on the back of a mule, horse or car. You can create the knot to your desired tension, but can adjust it as needed if you have to add something to your supply pile or remove something later. ONE AT A TIME

SHRINKAGE Ropes made of natural fibers can tighten or shrink as they get wet, which often happens while fishing or when camping in the rain. Keep an eye out for this situation if you’re using a natural rope and the weather gets wet—that way you can let out slack as needed to keep your items safe.

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and useful methods, which would probably be the reef knot, the clove hitch, the bowline and the figure eight, plus either the sheet bend or the taut line hitch,” Campbell says. “Once you know these five, you have a great foundation.” The bowline knot is a must because it’s easy to tie and can allow you to pull an animal, a person, or another heavy object out of a dangerous situation if you tie it properly, thus making it a potentially life-saving knot. This is the knot you’ve seen in movies— someone throws what looks like a lasso down to a person who has fallen into a crevasse and tows them out. The bowline creates a loop that the person can step into before being pulled to safety. (Image 3) A figure eight knot is great for maritime uses because it ensures that your line won’t slide through a cleat, thus ensuring security of the line. Many rock climbers use the figure eight to secure their harnesses, making it absolutely essential for their safety when on the face of a mountain or cliff. The beauty of

A common mistake is to try learning all of your knots at the same time, Campbell says. “It can be easy to mix them up this way,” he advises. “Instead, learn one and be able to tie it consistently without mistakes before you move on to the next one.” NO EXCUSES

Now you know which knot-tying techniques can improve your odds of survival. Learn them and hone your skills; they’ll come in handy in a number of serious situations.

LEARN ONLINE LEARN ONLINE If you don’t have scouting or maritime training, you can either get a book that shows you how to make knots or check online. Sites such as AnimatedKnots.com or YouTube.com offer easy ways to learn how to tie the knots you’ll need to survive.

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GENERAL

DENTAL DISTRESS HOW TO DEAL WITH MOUTH PAIN WHEN A DENTIST IS NOWHERE TO BE FOUND BY GARRETT KIM

t’s not likely you’ll be able to access a dentist immediately in a bug-out or on-the-trail situation if you have a sudden toothache. Tooth pain can be brutal, and it can prevent you from doing what you need to do in a survival scenario. To find out how to deal with intense tooth pain on the go—at least until you can get to a dentist—we enlisted the help of Colorado campsite director Carrie Burke, who has a lot of experience with mouth pain in the great outdoors.

HELP It started out as a regular day at the Colorado campsite that Burke manages—she was checking tents and organizing activities for the day as usual, when a middle-aged man came running toward her, clutching the side of his mouth. “He was in agony,” she says. “He had severe tooth pain and didn’t know any dentists in the area.” Fortunately, Burke’s training had included field first aid, and she had several at-hand remedies for too thaches in her first aid kit. “I had him rinse with warm water that had salt and garlic in it, and then told him to chew on cloves. His tooth pain was completely gone in less than an hour.” EVALUATE Your mouth is home to many structures besides besides your teeth, and you’ll have to pinpoint the true source of your pain before you know how to address it. If you have access to the Internet when your pain strikes, there’s one easy-to-use resource that can help.

Cloves and clove oil are well-known natural remedies for tooth pain.


HERBAL REMEDIES There are many herbal remedies available for tooth pain. Calendula and echinacea soothe sore gums and reduce inflammation; they are also good to treat Candida albicans, an opportunistic yeast that causes thrush in the mouth. Lavender oil can also help clear thrush, reduce inflammation and heal sores. If your gums are infected, goldenseal and Oregon grape can help kill bacteria. In addition, rosemary has antiseptic properties that can help heal painful canker sores.

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DENTAL DISTRESS

Add some salt to warm warm water water and rinse well to help relieve pain.

SCISSORS CAN HELP PREVENT A PROBLEM In addition to keeping a few toothache remedying items in your pack, you should also make sure you have a pair of scissors. The reason, the American Dental Association says, is that people often use their teeth to cut things (such as string) and end up hurting their teeth or gums this way. If you have scissors available, use them for cutting and save your teeth for eating your dinner.

“AVOID CHEWING ICE, POPCORN KERNELS AND HARD CANDY, ALL OF WHICH CAN CRACK A TOOTH.” – THE AMERICAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION

Never chew anything hard.


DON’T CHEW NONFOODS Although it may seem obvious to keep hard items out of your mouth, one of the biggest causes of broken teeth is from people chewing things they shouldn’t, such as ice cubes. If you want to cool down, you can sip ice water or suck on ice chips, but don’t try and bite down on anything hard, especially ice.

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“The American Dental Association’s conRinsing with water enhanced with salt, sumer website is MouthHealthy.org. It garlic or cloves can help ease your pain as includes a symptom tracker, so if folks are well, Burke says. You can soften whole cloves trying to decide if they need to see a dentist by holding them in your mouth, then gently and are able to access the site, this may be chew the soft spices near the affected tooth to helpful,” says American Dental Association ease your pain until you can get to a dentist, communications manager, Julia Nissim. she adds. Some conditions, however, leave no quesIf you have an ache in a tooth or in your tion to the diagnosis. For example, Burke gums, this could be a sign of infection that a says, she once had a camper walk into a dentist should address. In the meantime, branch and knock out his front eliminate the chances that you tooth. In this situation, it was could fix the problem on your clear that the person needed own by flossing around the TONGUE immediate professional area in pain. Sometimes CARE dental care, but there are food or other debris can steps you can take in the get lodged in between “If you bite your tongue, the injury will meantime if you’re teeth and cause pain, typically heal on its own as long as you keep waiting to get to a denwhich flossing can remit clean with warm water rinses. However, if tist after someone loses edy, the American Denthe bite severs a portion of your tongue or if a tooth. tal Association advises. you can’t control the bleeding, go to an “If an adult dislodges Additionally, you emergency room right away while holdor knocks out a tooth, he should avoid putting ing a cold, clean cloth on the injury to should ideally keep it in aspirin directly on the slow the bleeding.” his mouth,” Burke says. toothache area. Although —CARRIE BURKE “Holding it in the pocket this old wives’ tale is said to between the cheek and gum is a reduce the pain, the reality is that good spot where it can stay wet and the aspirin can damage the delicate tiswon’t come in contact with bacteria. You can sues around the tooth, the American Dental also put it in a cup of milk,” she advises. Association cautioned. “And then get to a dentist as soon as possible, because the faster you get there, the DON’T STOP better the chances it can be saved.” The last thing you want during an emergency is for mouth pain to keep you down. If you’re in a situation where you can’t get to a KEEP IT CLEAN If you have a cut or bite on your lip, cheek dentist, try the methods we’ve presented; or tongue, rinse out your mouth with warm hopefully, they’ll keep you going until you water to keep it clean and try to avoid touchcan get the care you need. ing the damaged spot because that will slow Garrett Kim is a freelance writer living in North Carolina. the healing process, Burke says.


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GENERAL

GRUB GEAR CHOOSE THE RIGHT COOKING SUPPLIES TO GET YOU YOU THRO THROUG UGH H AN EMER EMERGE GENC NCY Y BY TORREY KIM

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OU PROBABLY PROBABLY know that cooking isn’t your first priority if you’re in a survival situation—but you can’t ignore it, either. After you’ve got water and shelter taken care of, you might want to quell the hunger that tends to hit every four hours or so. Unless you’re adept at eating as you gather, you could probably benefit from some quality cooking gear. The following tips can help ensure you’re well fed on your next outing. RECEPTACLES VERSUS HEAT

Because most survivalists can make a fire, your first step in seeking good cooking gear isn’t a hot plate, but what would go on it.

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“IF YOU’RE GOING TO INVEST IN COOKING GEAR, YOU’LL PROBABLY WANT A POT, FIRST AND FOREMOST.”

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“A cooking source is great to have, but shouldn’t be your first priority,” says backwoods camp guide, Erin Flaherty. “If you’re going to invest in cooking gear, you’ll probably want a pot, first and foremost.” The reason for this is because a pot can serve as more than a one-use item. You can cook your meals over a fire in it, but you can also utilize it for many other purposes. “You can take it to a water source and gather water to bring back to your campsite, and purify the water directly in it,” Flaherty says. “You can also heat the water and use it for washing dishes or clothes.” She recommends a sturdy pot with a lid, and preferably one with a handle, such as a Dutch oven, so you

— BACKWOODS CAMP GUIDE, ERIN FLAHERTY



can hang the pot over a fire if necessary. This allows you to cook over an open fire that may not have a grate on it. In addition, these types of pots allow you to cook both stews and bread because they’re good for baking and stove-style cooking. If you’re living the survival life on a homestead and you don’t travel a lot, consider cast iron, which is sturdy and well made. However, it’s rather heavy, so if you’ll be transporting your cooking set from one campsite to the next, opt instead for titanium or stainless steel, which are lighter. PRESERVE AND PROTECT

Preserving your food is almost as important as cooking it, because if you’re living as a survivalist, camper or homesteader, you don’t want to waste a morsel of food. Whether you’ve gathered strawberries or caught a huge flounder, you need a way to keep your food fresh if you can’t eat it all right away. Canning and jarring materials are great to have if you’ll be in an area amenable to it. Typically, it’s difficult

COOLER TEMP COOLER TEMP If you’re preserving your recently caught rabbit dinner in a cooler, don’t take any chances in letting it go bad before you have a chance to eat it. The cooler should stay at a temperature of 40-degrees F or below. At higher temperatures than that, bacteria can grow on the food and make it non-edible, the FDA says. In addition, don’t keep open raw meat or fish in the cooler with water bottles or other items that you’ll be consuming. Any raw meat or fish particles could end up being ingested by someone in your group and they could get sick.

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CAMPING STOVES If you aren’t adept at cooking over an open fire, you can get a cooking stove for your next survival excursion without breaking the bank. Most are relatively inexpensive, depending more on your fuel preference. While some camping stoves run on butane or propane, others can be powered by solar energy, or even with small twigs. Evaluate your survival situation and determine which might be most useful to you, since longer-term campers might not have access to propane refills, whereas the sun is more reliable.

“UNLESS YOU’RE ADEPT AT EATING AS YOU GATHER, YOU COULD PROBABLY BENEFIT FROM SOME QUALITY COOKING GEAR.”

[BELOW] If you do a lot of fishing, it’s a good idea to have a wire basket like this one to cook your fish over an open fire.

K C O T S K N I H T Y B S O T O H P

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ABOVE] If you’re cooking over an open fire, a Dutch oven is useful because it can cook a [ ABOVE wide range of foods.


FREEZE THOSE EGGS


Canning your food is an effective preservation method that will allow you to extend the life of your survival pantry.

Comfort Item Comfort Item

If you’re roughing it in your survival kitchen (or if your “kitchen” is among the trees and grass), you’ll be more comfortable if you have at least one piece of non-necessary gear. Of course, this isn’t always practical, especially if you’re hiking deep into the forest, but in situations when you’re able to bring an extra piece of gear, make it something that gives you a taste of home. “For many people, this is a simple French press-type of lightweight coffee pot,” Flaherty says, “Because a lot people don’t want to wake up without a cup of coffee.”

to jar in the wild, but on a homestead it’s fairly simple. This will allow you to add fresh foods to your survival pantry that can stay fresh for months. In addition, you can preserve meat and fish with a variety of materials, including smoking, dehydrating or curing, all of which can be done in the wild. Each of these methods involves its own set of materials, so figure out which is your specialty before you invest in the proper gear. If you need to preserve your food on a more short-term basis and it’s not snowy outside, you should at least have a cooler with ice available so you can keep your food fresh for a few days, Flaherty says.

LIVE TO SERVE SE RVE Although most of your favorite old Western movies show people eating directly out of the can or pot with their fingers, most survivalists would like a way to eat their meals in a somewhat civilized manner. It lends an

air of “normalcy” in what could be an otherwise completely chaotic situation. “You should have a few plates and bowls, plus a set of utensils,” Flaherty says. “Many people use double-duty utensils like sporks to save space when camping.” On a homestead, you can use standard gear, but if you’re camping, you might want to opt for plastic plates and utensils because they’ll be lighter in your pack. Don’t forget a spatula for turning your food over the fire and a large serving spoon for stirring your meals.

GEAR UP Although in an emergency situation cooking gear might not be the first thing you think about, it’s a good idea to plan ahead so you have some should the need arise. Not only will it help you actually eat the food you bring, produce or gather, it will give you what will probably be a much appreciated taste of home.

When it comes to food preservation, most of us know we can freeze meats, vegetables and bread to ensure they stay fresh—but your freezing options don’t stop there. If you’re freezing foods (either outside in the snow or cooler, or inside of your homestead in the freezer), keep in mind that you can freeze eggs. One of the best protein values available, eggs are versatile and have a long shelf life of three to five weeks in your refrigerator. But if your hen lays more than you can use in that period, you can consider freezing the eggs. Just take a few steps before your eggs are ready for their new “winter.” To freeze whole eggs, you’ll first crack them into a bowl and beat them until just blended, according to the American Egg Board’s “Eggcyclopedia.” Then pour them into freezer containers, seal tightly, and label with the date. The eggs will last for up to a year in a home freezer, and when you’re ready to use them, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and use them as soon as they’re thawed. To replace one whole egg in a recipe, use three tablespoons of your thawed whole egg mixture. S E P T E M B E R

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GENERAL

SURVIVAL CELEBRITY DISCOVERY CHANNEL’S “NAKED AND AFRAID” STAR, E.J. SNYDER, SHARES HIS TOP 10 TIPS FOR STAYING ALIVE BY TORREY KIM + Photos Courtesy of the DISCOVERY CHANNEL

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FTER 25 YEARS IN THE ARMY—INCLUDING TWO TOURS AS A COMBAT SOLDIER IN BOTH THE GULF WAR AND OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM—YOU’D THINK E.J. “SKULLCRUSHER” SNYDER WOULD BE READY TO RELAX. THE REALITY, HOWEVER, IS THAT HE’S JUST GETTING STARTED.

SNYDER’S STORY Following his retirement from the Army, which included more than 50 medals and decorations, Snyder wanted to continue using his h is survival training to help others. He signed on as a military technical advisor on shows such as “LOST” and the History Channel’s “Patton 360,” and took on work as a government contractor training soldiers how to survive behind enemy lines. But to continue to test his own resolve, Snyder would have to be dropped in the middle of nowhere with nothing— not even clothing—and survive solely on his training. Not only did Snyder do this once in Africa, but he did it a second time in the Amazon rainforest, both for Discovery’s hit show “Naked & Afraid.”

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THE SCENARIO Each week, the show features two hard-core survivalists who arrive in the wild with just a map and one item of their choosing for 21 days.


Once there, they have to find their own shelter, water and food, while staying clear of predators and bad weather. Both times he appeared on the show, Snyder went the distance. The following 10 tips show you how to survive in the wild, and prove why Snyder has persevered where others have failed. 1_ Assess Assess The The Situ Situati ation on And And Make Make A Plan. If you find yourself in unfamil-

iar territory, your first step should not be to start running, Snyder says. “First, make a count of everyone’s physical condition to assess the situation,” Snyder says. “Check security and physical conditions, then start making a plan right from the get-go. If it’s an emergency situation like a plane crash or car wreck, the normal rule is to stay until help finds you. If you have to self-rescue, find something in the immediate location that’s useful to you. A car, for instance, can provide a ton of equipment that can be helpful to you.”

2_Move Navigation Up The Priority 2_Move List. If you find yourself in a survival

situation where you have no equipment and you know the chances of being rescued are slim, focus on finding your way out, Snyder advises. “A survival skill that’s often overlooked (and which is one of my strengths) is navigation,” he says. “Know where you are at all times and be able to find your direction without a compass. Understand the seasons and how the sun’s going to come through the sky, study the stars and elements, and keep a good bearing on where you are so you don’t get lost once you’re on your path. 3_Find 3_ Find Water. After you assess the

situation, make a plan and get your bearings, you’ll want to find a good water resource, Snyder says. “After that you’ll have fewer problems because when you’re hydrated, you think better.” “For me, being a soldier and teaching soldiers, I’m used to being uncomfortable,” Snyder says. “Discomfort is natural to me whereas normal people would dislike it, but the cues your body gives you when it is uncomfortable can distract you from

“I’LL NEVER BE LET DOWN BECAUSE I HAVE AN IRON WILL AND GOD ON MY SIDE, SO IF I HAVE THOSE TWO THINGS I CAN GET THROUGH ANYTHING.” —SURVIVALIST, E.J. SNYDER

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SURVIVAL CELEBRITY

survival, so get hydrated in order to be more comfortable and aware.” 4_Seek Shelter, Fire And Food. Once 4_Seek you’ve got a great source of hydration, it’s time to locate a good shelter. This could be a cave, a self-built structure, or a bed of leaves under a tarp. “You need something that keeps you out of the elements,” Snyder says. Once you have your shelter set up, you’ll want to make a fire not far from it. Then you can start looking for food. Although you may have thought this would be higher on the list, it is actually a much lower priority than water, Snyder says. “If you take in more calories, you need more water to digest, so you don’t want to eat an excessive amount,” he advises.

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5_Create Your Weapons. After you 5_Create complete the four steps above, you can start thinking about surviving in the longer-term, Snyder says. “To really make it in the wild, you need to think outside of the box,” he suggests. “You’ll need weapons and tools, but when I look at an item, it better have three uses for me before I take it with me,” he says. “A stick, for instance, has to be able to be a fire prod, a slingshot, and a spear, for instance. Being in a survival situation is stressful, so if you keep your mind occupied with planning things like this, you won’t go into panic mode or isolation.”


SURPRISES Surviving in the wild for three weeks is a daunting thought for most of us—so making it for 21 days on “Naked and Afraid” would be downright devastating. For E.J. Snyder, however, it was almost like a day at the office. After his training in the Army, he knew his preparation and training had set him up for success on the show—but there were actually several things that were tougher than he expected. “Being in the wild is as natural as breathing for me, but primitive hunting can be so difficult and so much harder than I realized,” he says. “I’m used to hunting with gear like slingshots and tomahawks and I’m very good with a rabbit stick. When I got into Tanzania, I made a rabbit stick and really wanted to make tomahawks but it was hard to find good cordage, everything was brittle. When I was in the Amazon, I found it strange that there were no rocks in the jungle so it’d be hard to make a tomahawk head. So hunting by making my own tools was tough.”

6_Stay Calm. Because Snyder had a 6_Stay military background, he was able to make split-second decisions that may have saved his life while on “Naked and Afraid.” But even if you weren’t in the Army, you can learn a few lessons from Snyder’s experience. “When I was a senior ranking enlisted soldier, I learned quickly that you have to stay calm, cool and collected in every situation—especially when handling problems,” Snyder says. “It’s very important that when stuff comes at you, you have to be calm, adaptable and flexible and think quickly on the fly.” 7_Be Willing To Change Your Game 7_Be Plan. You might read some great survival advice in a book before you head out on an adventure, but that doesn’t mean you must follow the book in every situation. “I live by the “Army Survival Manual,” but when you go out there if you stay rigid to the book, you’ll have

Think You Could Go Naked? If you’re a fan of “Naked and Afraid,” you might be interested in joining the cast. Keep in mind, however, that you’ll need to bring your A game. “It’s not for the faint of heart,” Snyder says. “You really need capabilities and skills and I have them and it was still tough. I’ve been on the show

No Knife? Not Prepared. twice—once in Tanzania and once in the Amazon, and both times I found you have to come with everything you’ve got because Mother Nature will throw everything at you and you have to be flexible.” The show’s environment tested everything that Snyder studied for the past 30-plus years. “When I was on the show, if I thought I had a handle on the mental game, something physical would pop

a problem because you take away adaptability and flexibility,” Snyder says. “In the Amazon, everything I knew about repelling mosquitos, like spreading termite paste on my body, or creating fires didn’t work, so we had to adapt to what the Amazon was showing us and embrace that magical place. If you only live by the book, it’s hard to be adaptable.” 8_Become The Wild. If you feel like 8_Become an outsider in the wild, you’ll react like one, which can be detrimental to your survival. “I found that in both Tanzania and the Amazon that everything I had been formally trained was put in check by the wild,” Snyder says. “All of the laws and rules to survival, things I based my survival strategies on to make it out, didn’t always work; the wild always gets a vote. I had to resort to adapting, improvising, and overcoming to make it out of the situation.” “There’s a saying that says ‘to survive war, you have to become war,’” Snyder says. “The same applies here—to survive the wild, you must become that. I like seeing how far I can push boundaries, bending or even breaking the rules. In

up. If I thought I had a handle on the physical game, something emotional would pop up as in dealing with my partner. But despite all that, I was truly in my element out there and loved every second of it because I feel that’s what I was meant to do.” To find out more about “Naked and Afraid,” visit the Discovery Channel website at Discovery.com/tvshows/naked-and-afraid.

society, you must obey the law, but in the wild, you become the law.” 9_Keep That Iron Will. If you feel the 9_Keep wild beating you down, you have to fight against it or it will envelop you. “I went into the Amazon with a mindset like a soldier, with my wisdom, experience and my mental toughness, which for me is probably my biggest strength,” Snyder says. “An iron will ensures you’ll survive because you’ll always look for water, shelter, or whatever you may need. My motto in survival and in life is ‘Tua Sponte Superstes,’ which means in Latin “survive by your own will.” “I’ll never be let down because I have an iron will and God on my side, so if I have those two things I can get through anything. It might not be the book way or the pretty way but it’s the EJ ‘Skullcrusher’ Snyder way and by God it has helped me survive.” 10_Don’t Take Yourself Too Seriously. 10_ Levity can help defuse a survival situation, Snyder says. “I’m the Clark Griswold of survival television, but what you see on “Naked and Afraid” is the real me and I’m the same way on TV as I am in real life.”

Funxion EMT Model 8100

This one, from Kershaw, offers an extra measure of ready. It has a big, useful blade that opens one-handed with SpeedSafe ® assisted opening. It also has a selection of emergency-ready features, like a cord cutter and a built-in carbide glassbreaker.

What are YOU carrying? WHERE TO FIND E.J. Snyder not only trains soldiers how to survive behind enemy lines and wows fans of reality television, he also conducts survival courses and speaks to groups. To check out his latest activities, visit his website at EJSnyder.com, or follow him on Twitter @EJSnyder333.

KERSHAWKNIVES.COM

“ALCOHOL STOVES ARE SMALL AND WEIGH PRACTICALLY NOTHING…THEY HAVE NO MOVING PARTS TO BREAK OR MALFUNCTION.”

GENERAL

STOVE SEMINAR BUILD A LIGHTWEIGHT, ECONOMICAL STOVE TO ADD TO YOUR SUPPLIES TEXT AND PHOTOS BY STEVEN PAUL BARLOW

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STOVE CAN NOT ONLY HEAT YOUR FOOD OUT OUT IN THE WILD, IT CAN PROVIDE A REAL SENSE OF HOME BY PROVIDING YOU WITH A HOT MEAL IN WHAT CAN BE A MIGHTY UNCOMPROMISING UNCOMPROMISING SITUATION. Whether you are preparing an emergency kit or you simply like to travel light, a small alcohol stove is a good thing to pack. When you’re hiking or hunting, these stoves enable you to prepare a hot lunch without taking the time to gather firewood. If you have to spend a night in the woods unexpectedly, it provides a way to make tea or soup—warm fluids that help prevent hypothermia. During a disaster or other emergency, when electrical power and other utilities may be out, a stove can enable you to prepare meals and to boil and purify water. Follow along to get the 411 on alcohol stoves.

W O L R A B E I N A H P E T S F O Y S E T R U O C O T O H P

PROS AND CONS Over the years, I’ve used many types of backpacking stoves with mixed results. Some had delicate parts or used specialized fuel canisters that were hard to find. Others were simply too heavy or bulky. Alcohol stoves are small and weigh practically nothing. They burn denatured or methyl alcohol, which is readily available for a reasonable cost and can be safely transported in

any waterproof container. They have no moving parts to break or malfunction. The low cost is possibly the best thing about these stoves. You can make several types yourself in a few minutes with materials you scrounge from your household’s recycling bin. Many of my stoves now have permanent homes in my fanny packs, daypacks, the trunk of my car, my bug-out bin and as a backup for a larger stove in my full-sized backpack. These stoves do have their limitations; for one, it’s difficult to regulate their heat. You

Alcohol stove lineup (from left) includes the soda can stove made by coupling the bottoms of two soda cans, two opentop stoves using tuna and deviled ham cans and two canister stoves, one with bolts as pot supports.

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can get around that by moving your cook pot closer or further from the flame, and you can “turn down” your stove by placing it in a larger container with fewer ventilation holes. That will give your stove a longer burn time at simmering temperatures. I use my stoves primarily to boil water, so regulating the temperature isn’t much of an issue. But they do take longer to boil water. My homemade alcohol stoves will typically boil a pint of water in a covered cook pot in about seven minutes. The more-efficient, pressurized backpacking stoves will accomplish that much more quickly. Additionally, it is important to remember that alcohol stoves can be difficult to light in sub-zero temperatures. temperatures. [TOP TO BOTTOM ] Examples of devised cook pot supports for homemade alcohol stoves include (from left): bolts fastened to the top of a 12-ounce tuna can; a ventilated 12-ounce tuna can; and 1½-inch bolts fastened directly to the top of a canister stove. This alcohol stove, made by drilling holes in a tin canister available from Specialty Bottle, has 1½inch bolts fastened to the top to support the cook pot. This design is especially useful when cooking with the metal cups that fit around common Nalgene bottles. Open-top alcohol stoves are the easiest to make and are the most trouble free. You place the cook pot directly on top, eliminating the need for a separate pot support. You can use different-sized cans to accommodate a variety of cook pots. This closed-top alcohol stove can be made by drilling holes in the top of a tin canister purchased especially for this purpose, but you can also use other small metal canisters with removable tops, such as those used for airgun pellets. The soda can stove design, made by coupling the bottoms of two soda or beer cans, has been around for years. It is light weight and efficient, efficient, but it does take a little longer to make and because you can’t remove the top, it’s harder to retrieve unused fuel from it.

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OPEN-TOP The simplest alcohol stove is the open-top design. This is the stove I use most often because you don’t need a separate cook support; you can just place your pan directly on top of the stove. Start with a small food can. I like 7-ounce tuna cans, which provide a good balance between sufficient fuel capacity and small size. They also have a sufficient diameter to support most of the cook pots I use. Smaller cans—typically the size used to pack deviled ham—work well with metal cups that fit Nalgene bottles. Remove the top of the can with an opener that does not leave a sharp edge. Use a sturdy hole punch to make a row of holes around the entire upper rim of the can. After making so many of these stoves, I finally invested in a tool specifically designed to punch holes in metal. It was worth the small investment. For 7-ounce cans I usually 9 punch ⁄ 32 32-inch holes. For the smaller cans, I 3 16-inch holes. punch ⁄ 16 Now make a second row of holes under these, offset from the top row of holes.

COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE STOVES You’re not the handy, handy, DIY type? Don’t worry. There are are commercially made alcohol stoves you can buy. Some offer accessories, such as pot supports, windscreens and cook pots. Some feature a mechanism to regulate the heat. Check out the manufacturers below. Trangia: Trangia.se/English Esbit: Esbit.de/en Vargo: VargoOutdoors.com

POT SUPPORT POT SUPPORT Closed-top stoves require a device to support your cook pot. You can rest your cook pot on rocks or logs placed about 3 inches apart with your stove on the ground between them. That system also provides some shielding from the wind. You can fasten four 1 ⁄2 -inch bolts to the lid of the stove so the ends of the bolts support your cook pot. This is a good method if you’re cooking with a small diameter metal cup. Larger pots may tip over with this setup. Another way is to punch several rows of holes around a large, 12-ounce tuna can and place the stove canister inside. Your cook pot will rest atop the larger tuna can. You may have to experiment with the number of holes to punch—fewer holes means slower cooking. Also, you can make a pot support by taking the top of a 12-ounce tuna can and attaching four bolts to it. Put your canister stove on the can top and rest your pot on the bolts.

That’s all there is to it. Your stove is complete. Fill it with denatured alcohol to the bottom row of holes. I usually light my stoves with a ferrocerium rod, which easily provides enough sparks to ignite the alcohol. Wait about 20 seconds until you see some agitation in the surface of the alcohol before you place your cook pot on top, otherwise the flame might go out. Once your cook pot seals off the top of the can, the flames will jet out of the holes like a conventional gas burner. Be very cautious, however, because the flames from burning alcohol can be nearly invisible, especially in bright sunlight. You might have to improvise a windscreen windscreen for breezy conditions. Expect a burn time of about 12 minutes. I’ve found that I can usually heat water for ramen noodles or instant soup and still have enough burn time left on a single filling to make tea or cocoa.

CLOSED-TOP This type of stove tends to be slightly more efficient and will spill less fuel if you do tip it over. The drawback with this type of stove is that it requires you to improvise something to support your cook pot. Specialty Bottle is a supplier of small metal canisters perfect for constructing alcohol stoves. The company also sells small plastic bottles that make excellent alcohol fuel containers. Or, you can use any small metal container with a removable top, like an airgun pellet canister. Drill a row of small holes around the lid 1 5 of your container using a ⁄ 16 16- or ⁄ 64 64-inch bit. Fill the canister with fuel, close the lid and pour a

ABOVE] Alcohol st oves ar e fueled by denatur ed alcoho l [ ABOVE (right), typically sold as paint thinner in hardware stores or methyl alcohol, which is the main ingredient in Heet brand automotive gas line additive. The fuel can be safely stored in any plastic container. [RIGHT] If you don’t have any other type of pot support, you can use rocks or logs with the alcohol stove. By increasing or decreasing the cook pot’s distance from the burner, you can regulate the heat to some extent.

STRETCH YOUR FUEL I use a 4-ounce plastic squeeze bottle to carry my fuel when I’m out for a day hike. Four ounces will fill my stove twice, giving me one filling to heat something for lunch and one filling to spare. A wide-mouthed plastic soda bottle makes an excellent fuel container for extended outings. I stretch my fuel supply by extinguishing my stove as soon as I’ve heated my water. Placing a cook pot or aluminum can upside down over the stove quickly smothers the flame. When the stove is cool, I dump any leftover fuel into a plastic sandwich bag. I’ve cut the bottom corner out of the bag, which makes it easy to funnel the fuel from the bag back into my fuel container. I then use the bag to store my stove and fuel bottle.

little more fuel on the top. Light the fuel on the top and this will prime your stove to get it started.

SODA CAN You can make another another type of closed-top closed-top stove by joining together the bottoms of two soda or beer cans and then drilling small holes in the top of the stove for the burner jets. These stoves stoves work well, but but they take a little longer to construct. First, measure 1¼ to 1½ inches up from the bottoms of two soda cans and cut them evenly around. Keep the bottoms and discard the rest. Next, use one of the bottoms to make three evenly spaced, vertical, ½-inch cuts (starting from the top down). These cuts will enable you to slightly bend the top edges so that you can easily join the two bottoms together to form a little canister. Once you’ve joined the two bottoms together, crimp any sharp edges. Drill a row 1 16 16-inch holes around what is now the top of ⁄ of your stove. Also drill a set of five holes in the concave center, which you’ll use to fill your stove with fuel. Fill your stove with fuel and light it. Because you can’t easily remove the top, it’s more difficult to retrieve any unused fuel if you extinguish your stove before it’s empty. EXPERIMENT Now that you’ve seen the way I’ve done it, try it yourself. If you find a better design, let the ASG crew know. Steven Paul Barlow is a retired sergeant/station commander and former firearms instructor with the New York state police. He has been writing on outdoor topics for 30 years, and his books are available from BriarHillBooks.com

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FISH TALES A GOOD FISHING ROD CAN MEAN THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN EATING…OR NOT YOU’RE OUT OUT IN THE THE WILD. WILD. You’re out out of food. You’re hungry. What now? Go fishing. Rod and reel skills are essential for anyone who will be travelling in the outdoors. If you ever find yourself stranded in the wilderness, you’ll be glad to have this vital knowledge. However, when it comes to fishing, skill is only one side of the equation. Your fishing rod matters just as much, if not more. There are many different types of rods to choose from depending on your location and the type of fish you hope to catch. Peruse our fishing rod choices and then go get one of your own. You’ll never regret adding this to your list of survival skills.

Buyer’s Guide Guide FISHING FISHIN G RODS RODS 4 1 0 2 R E B M E T P E S

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FISHING RODS

Buyer’s Guide

“THIS ROD GIMBAL MAKES BELTS AND TIES A THING OF THE PAST.”

EDGE WORLD

1 $45

SHIMANO

2 $11.04-$25.56

ST. CROIX

3 $130

EDGE WORLD

SHIMANO

3

ST. CROIX

1PRODUCT: Compact Fishing Rod

2 PRODUCT: FXC 2 Piece Casting

Gimbal

Rod

WEBSITE: IISports.com PRICE: $45

WEBSITE: Shimano.com PRICE: $11.04-$25.56

Specifications:

Specifications:

Specifications:

• Ultra compact, lightweight design eliminates the need for belts or ties • Fits all rod butts 1.1-inch-diameter or less • Weighs less than 1 ⁄2 pound • Strong aircraft aluminum body

• Features medium-power fast action • Two piece • Features durable aeroglass blank construction • Complete with reinforced aluminum oxide guides

• Line: 4-8 pounds • Lure: 1 ⁄161 6-1 ⁄4 ounces • Two piece

Defining Features: This rod gimbal

Defining Features: Don’t let the bargain

makes belts and ties a thing of the past. It’s ideal for those times when you need a bit of extra leverage to land a large fish. The rod helps cut back on fatigue by transferring the weight of the rod from your arms and wrists to your hip or waist. It fits fishing rods of all shapes and sizes–from rod butts 1.1-inch diameter or less. Weighing less than half a pound, it’s quite compact, perfect for storing in your tackle box.

basement price fool you; although this rod may be under $30, it’s made by Shimano, a name you can trust. These rods are widely available at fishing and hardware stores throughout the country, so you can try them out in person. This sturdy rod is rustproof and durable, which makes it just about perfect given the low entry price.

PRODUCT: Trout Series TSS70LXF2 Spinning Rod WEBSITE: StCroixRods.com PRICE: $130

Defining Features: St. Croix’s all-new

Trout Series spinning rods feature crisp, controlled actions and plenty of backbone to handle larger fish. Built on blanks rolled from a blend of premiumquality SCII graphite and high-strain SCVI graphite, the new rods are lightweight, strong and sensitive. Created specifically for trout anglers who fish streams and lakes with spinners and other lures, all thread wraps are protected by two coats of Flex Coat slowcure finish for exceptional durability.

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Buyer’s FISHING RODS Guide

4

BERKLEY PRODUCT: Abu Garcia VNGC662-5

FENWICK

6 PRODUCT: HMX Spinning Rod

Vengeance Casting Rod WEBSITE: Berkley-Fishing.com PRICE: $49.99

S53L-M

Specifications:

Specifications:

• High-density EVA handles are more durable and comfortable • Features soft-touch sea guide reel seats for increased comfort and zirconium-coated guides that are perfect for braided line usage • Line rating is 8 to17 pounds and medium power rating • Measures 78 inches • Two piece

• Cross-scrim graphite construction utilizing overlapping layers of carbon fiber to achieve exceptional strength and action • Perfect for braided line applications • Durable, strong and lightweight guides with stainless steel frames and titanium oxide inserts

Defining Features: The Vengeance is a

hybrid fishing rod that perfectly blends function and design. Ergonomically appealing and performance enhancing, this two-piece casting rod features 24-ton graphite with the latest in fishing technology. The rod handles great, especially for larger bass in heavy weeds. Measuring 78 inches in length, its soft-touch sea guide reel seats add to the rod’s comfort. For a fishing rod at less than $50, this rod is an absolute bargain.

WEBSITE: FenwickFishing.com PRICE: $79.95

BERKLEY

4 $49.99

Defining Features: The Fenwick HMX

Rod combines superb features and a low price. This rod can take the wear and tear of fishing; cross-scrim graphite construction and overlapping layers of carbon fiber provide both strength and action. Not only is powerful, it’s lightweight, too. It has a stainless steel frame and cork material handle to deliver top-notch performance every time you head out to the lake.

FENWICK

$79.95 6

DAIWA

5PRODUCT: FSF1202HRB Beefstick Surf Cast Rod WEBSITE: Daiwa.com PRICE: $42.94 Specifications:

• 12 feet • Line weight: 20 to 40 pounds • Lure weight: 1 to 10 ounces • Power: Heavy • Stainless-hooded composite reel seat Defining Features: If you’re looking for a

heavy-duty cast rod that can take all the punishment you can dish out, Beefstick is the rod for you. It doesn’t matter if you’re using braid or mono, you’ll have sheer power and durability at your fingertips. This rod isn’t made of graphite, so it weighs a little more, but you’ll barely notice the difference. Each rod is solidly built with a two-piece Fiberglas blank to last for the years to come. 4 1 0 2 R E B M E T P E S

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“THIS ROD CAN TAKE THE WEAR AND TEAR OF FISHING; CROSSSCRIM GRAPHITE CONSTRUCTION AND OVERLAPPING LAYERS OF CARBON FIBER PROVIDE BOTH STRENGTH AND ACTION.”

DAIWA

5 $42.94

FISHING RODS

LAMIGLAS

Buyer’s Guide

FENWICK

7 PRODUCT: LX 910 X-11 Fy Fishing

8PRODUCT: Eagle GT Spinning Rod

Rod

WEBSITE: FenwickFishing.com PRICE: $59.95

WEBSITE: Lamiglas.com PRICE: $160

Specifications: Specifications:

• Lamiglas X-11 Fly LX 910 • Two-piece, 9-foot, 10-weight graphite fly rod • Cork handle with anodized aluminum reel seat and snake guides • Fast-action graphite blank • Rich, glossy, merlot finish

FENWICK

8 $59.95

Defining Features: High performance

doesn’t always have to come with a steep price. This is a fantastic rod at a reasonable price. This high-performance rod features the fast action you’d expect from Lamiglas. The rod is fabricated from long-lasting IM graphite and it features above- average casting and catches. This one even comes with a nice contrast of reel seat and premium cork handles.

• 5-feet 9-inch, one-piece M action spinning rod • Hard-chromium-plated ss304 guide system • Multi-laminate layup • Classic Fenwick actions Defining Features: This rod lives up the

Fenwick name–and then some. It offers good action and a superb grip. It’s very sensitive and able to catch the smallest of bass, and the copper grip will make you think you’re using a fishing rod at double the price point. The rod is lightweight—perfect for light reel upwards of 6 ounces, and you can store it in your backpack for long treks into the woods.

DAIWA

9PRODUCT: Laguna Trigger Rod LAG661MhFB WEBSITE: Daiwa.com PRICE: $43.94 Specifications:

“HIGH PERFORMANCE DOESN’T ALWAYS HAVE TO COME WITH A STEEP PRICE.”

DAIWA

9 $43.94

• Combines hand-fitting comfort and performance into a sturdy, yet flexible, rod • Lightweight frame allows easy maneuverability and line maintenance • IM-6 graphite with woven carbon construction • Stainless steel hooded reel seat • Lightweight, split foam grip Defining Features: For a price of less

than $50, Daiwa Laguna Trigger Rods are a real bargain. Not only do they look and feel great, they perform. Whether you’re a beginner or veteran, these rods are great for all skill levels. They’re also made to last: they’re fabricated from durable, lightweight graphite and feature woven carbon construction.

LAMIGLAS

7 $160

S E P T E M B E R

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45

Buyer’s FISHING RODS Guide ST. CROIX

11 $170

BERKLEY

10 $39.99

“THIS HIGHER-END ROD FEATURES THE MOST POPULAR ACTIONS AND THE HOTTEST TECHNIQUES USED BY FISHERMAN TODAY.”

SHIMANO

12 $59.99

BERKLEY

ST. CROIX

SHIMANO

PRODUCT: TDS461UL Trout

PRODUCT: Wild River Salmon

PRODUCT: Sellus one-Piece

Dough Series Ultra Light Power Spinning Fishing Rod WEBSITE: Berkley-Fishing.com PRICE: $39.99

& Steelhead Spinning Rods WRS86MHF2 WEBSITE: StCroixRods.com PRICE: $170

Flipping Cast Rod WEBSITE: Shimano.com PRICE: $59.99

Specifications:

Specifications:

• Spinning fishing rod is specifically engineered for accurate, long-distance casting of Berkley dough baits • Uni-directional Fiberglas blanks deliver the strength, sensitivity, light weight and bait-protecting finesse • All rods in the series feature weightreducing split cork handles and five stainless steel guides and inserts • Rod measures 41 ⁄2 -feet long

• Premium-quality SCII graphite • Outstanding strength, sensitivity and hook-setting power • Finely tuned actions and tapers for superior performance • Hard aluminum-oxide guides with black frames

• Power: medium heavy • One piece • Length: 7 feet, 6 inches • Action: extra fast • Rear grip length: 10.5-inch split grip

Specifications:

Defining Features: When you’re han-

4 1 0 2

dling the Trout Doug series rod, you’ll forget you’re handling anything at all. This lightweight power spinning fishing rod comes with a weight-reducing cork handle, perfect for reeling in the catch of the day. This rod was specifically made for long-distance casting using Berkley dough baits.

R E B M E T P E S

46


Defining Features: St. Croix has added

three highly specialized, extra-heavy power, moderate-action salmon rods to its best-selling Wild River series. Designed to provide the strength required when trolling in-line flashers and divers or around jetties, or in any other situation where you need 12 to 16 ounces of lead or a diver to get down in heavy current. The new Wild River rods are the fishing rod of choice for tidewater bobber fishing. Designed and handcrafted in Park Falls, WI, they even come with a five-year warranty.

Defining Features: The Shimano Sel-

lus series was created with the Bass fisherman in mind. This higher-end rod features the most popular actions and the hottest techniques used by fisherman today. This series offers a variety of rods: Crankbait, Spinnerbait, Top Water, Worm, Jig and a Flipping stick. This rod is lightweight and reel seats ensure its perfectly balanced in your hand. Did we mention the rod also features low-profile aluminum oxide guides and a multipurpose hook keeper?

Y R O T S R E V O C

B N A P L

Plan B EMP-Proof 1986 Expandable 6x6 Command Center

48


“WE WANT TO BUILD A NATIONWIDE INFRASTRUCTURE WHERE IF SOMETHING HAPPENS, WE CAN SAY THESE ARE THE TRUCKS THAT CAN GO IN AND HELP OUT .”

THIS POWERHOUSE OF A VEHICLE FROM PLAN B SUPPLY MAKES THE PERFECT BUG-OUT BACKUP L A C I T C A T 1 1 . 5 F O Y S E T R U O C R A E G • L L A H S R A M N A Y R B : L E D O M

BY TORREY KIM + Photos by Gus Alonzo AKE A PASSION FOR SURVIVAL, A DEPENDABLE MILITARY VEHICLE, AND A LOT OF MAN-HOURS PERFORMING CUSTOMIZATION, CUSTOMIZATIO N, AND WHAT DO YOU GET? A fleet of survival vehicles that can tear across the country with your entire stack of bug-out supplies safely on board. If you’re ready for the ultimate survival vehicle, Plan B Supply can deliver.

T


49

B N A L P THE BACK STORY

PERUSE YOUR OPTIONS

Plan B Supply was conceived by survivalist Dan Coleman, who owns one of these vehicles, naturally. The company’s customized trucks are built upon the base of a retired military vehicle, and then crafted to your specifications at its warehouse. After you accept delivery of your vehicle, the rest is up to you. “About seven years ago I wanted a survival vehicle that could cover a lot of scenarios and the military trucks were the ones that fit the category best for fulfilling my needs,” Coleman says. The company also converts other government-retired vehicles, including fire trucks, into survival wheels.

If you’re shopping for a survival vehicle, your first step should be to check out the offerings on the Plan B website, which showcases the many styles of truck that are available. “The most cost-effective avenue for a survivalist’s money is the military truck conversion,” Coleman says. “We have contracts with the government to purchase a certain amount of trucks each year and we like the expandable box trucks best.” Although most other off-road motormotorhomes are in the half-million dollar range, Plan B can put you into a survival truck for as low as $15,000, Coleman says. “For most survivalists, we sell really dependable trucks in the $14,500 to $26,000 range,” he says. “Our main customer base is a family that wants a good, stout bug-out vehicle.”

HOW PLAN B GETS QUALITY TRUCKS When Plan B is on the market for a survival truck, the company goes straight to the source: retired government vehicles, which go to auction. “We go through and have specific criteria that I look for in a truck,” Coleman says. “I work really hard to get into a high position to bid near the beginning of the lot so I can get the cream of the crop. Because I’m in that position, I can get a really clean truck for a good price and then don’t have to put a ton of work into them. For example, the last truck I just sold for $16,000 had recently gotten $86,000 worth of work put into it by the government.”

50


YES, YES, YOU’ YOU’V VE GOT POWER POWER

Inside of the survival vehicle, you can request anything from a simple cooking stove and dorm refrigerator to create your meals on the go to a fully functional kitchen with a stove and refrigerator

SURVIVAL COMMUNITY After customers buy trucks from Plan B, they can become part of the company’s wide-spanning network of resources. “We’ve created a bit of a survival community of people who have bought our trucks and they’ve agreed to a system of response and rescue with one another during a survival situation where we can help each other and bring in supplies,” Coleman says. “We want to build a nationwide infrastructure where if something happens we can say these are the trucks that can go in and help out right near there. People tell us their skills and capabilities and we put it on the list.”

“THE MOST COST-EFFECTIVE AVENUE FOR A SURVIVALIST’S MONEY IS THE MILITARY TRUCK CONVERSION.”

PLAN B

EMP-PROOF 1986 EXPANDABLE 6X6 COMMAND CENTER

What To Wear Our model is outfitted in 5.11 Tactical Series gear. Freedom Flex shirt $64.99 Flex-Tac Stryke pant $70.99 Apex T-Rail belt $64.99 For more, visit: 511Tactical.com

already hooked up to solar panels and batteries. “On the box trucks we usually put solar-, electrical- and dieselpowered equipment like heaters in the vehicle, as well as diesel cooking stoves,” Coleman says. “We just put two 80-gallon diesel tanks on one truck that can take it almost 1,000 miles without having to fuel up.” However, Coleman stresses, he doesn’t advise survivalists to waste diesel on making a can of soup. “My main focus is helping people understand how to use precious commodities that could be on low supply,” he says. “You

The Best Kind Of People Thank you to the crew at Plan B Supply who drove two of their trucks from Oregon to California for our ASG cover shoot. Pictured from left to right: Top left: Tom left: Tom Broome, Broome, Plan B co-owner Top right: Dan Coleman, Coleman, Plan B owner Middle: Bryan Marshall, Marshall, president, WishesForWarriorsCorp.org Bottom left: Andrew Robb, Robb, Plan B mechanic and fabricator Bottom right: Wade Wagner, Wagner, Plan B PR and Las Vegas supervisor

FOR MORE INFORMATION

To learn more about Plan B Supply, visit the company’s website at PlanBSupply.com.

want to save your diesel fuel for the truck to get from place to place, not as a generator so you can make toast. Instead, you want to use solar for those things. You can use your generator to turn the microwave on and cook a meal in two minutes to save energy.” CHECK IT OUT

If you’re in the market for a bug-out vehicle you can’t do much better than a Plan B Supply model. It’s tough, it’s affordable and it provides everything you need to get outta Dodge.

SPECS • Cummins diesel engine • Four 50-inch rough terrain tires • Allison automatic transmission • Rockwell high/low range transfer case • Rockwell 5t on planetary axles • Water fording depth of 5 feet, 7 inches • Rear box that expands from 17 x 8 to 17 x 14 • Full electrical panel with breakers • Roof hatch with folddown ladder • Rear-mounted generator • Diesel-fired space heater • Rear box AC unit • Blackout windows • Pop-up roof tent, sleeps six with roof hatch access • Folding rear lift gate for loading heavy equipment • Rear 2-inch receiver hitch for towing a trailer • On-board air tanks for running air tools • Roof-mounted solar panels • 2,500-watt DC inverter • On-board communications, HAM radio • Top speed: 72 mph • 8.6 mpg at 65 mph • 10.2 mpg at 50 mph Price $38,700 *Stock price without mods: $28,800

WITH THANKS

Thank you to Raahauge’s Shooting Enterprises for the generous use of its property for our cover shoot. To learn more about Raahauge’s, please visit: Raahauges.com


S E P T E M B E R

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51

Buyer’s Guide FOOD& FOOD &WATER

MAKE MINE TO-GO 4 1 0 2

PORTABLE FOOD AND WATER PRODUCTS THAT EVERY PREPPER NEEDS

R E B M E T P E S

52


WITHOUT FOOD AND WATER, you will not survive. It’s just that simple. If the last year of extreme weather has taught us anything, it’s the importance of being prepared for an emergency. Food and water are essential basics, so make sure you at least prepare in this arena. Emergency food and water supplies have come a long way in the last few years, and it’s now possible to get quality, good-tasting meals, and kits to make water safe and drinkable. Peruse the following items and decide what fits your food and water survival needs.


J A N T Z knifemaking.com Pattern 42 Blades Pattern 41 Blades Overall Length: 7 5/8”, Blade Length: 3”, Width: 1”, Thickness: 1/8” CAT. # J4198 J419K J4127 J4128 J4137 J4138 J4189

ST EE EE L

F IN INIS H

1095 Satin 1095 Black Teflon D2 Steel Peened D2 Steel Satin CPMS 30V Peened CPMS 30V Satin Damascus Random

CAT.#

SHEATH

KT410 KT455

Kydex Kydex Belt Clip

USA

P RI RICE 24.95 24.95 32.95 32.95 42.95 42.95 79.95

Overall Length: 6 5/8”, Blade Length: 2 5/8”, Width: 7/8”, Thickness: 1/8” CAT.# J4298 J429K J4227 J4228 J4207 J4208 J4257 J4258 J4289

ST EE EE L

F IN INIS H

P RI RI CE CE

1095 Satin 1095 Black Teflon D2 Steel Peened D2 Steel Satin 440C Peened 440C Satin CPM154 Peened CPM154 Satin Damascus Random

Overall Length: Length: 6 1/2", Blade Length: 2 1/2", Width: 1 1/8", Thickness: 1/8"

24.95 24.95 32.95 32.95 32.95 32.95 39.95 39.95 69.95

CAT.#

PRICE 12.95 9.95

MADE

CAT.#

SHEATH

KT420

Kydex

PRICE

12.95

PARACORD

Pattern 31 Blades

Pattern 45 Blades

Pattern 44 Blades

ST EE EEL

F IN INI SH SH

P RI RICE

J4498 J449K J4427 J4428 J4407 J4408

1095 Satin 1095 Black Teflon D2 Steel Peened D2 Steel Satin 440C Peened 440C Satin

CAT.#

SHEATH

KT440 KT455


24.95 24.95 29.95 29.95 29.95 29.95

PRICE 12.95 9.95

$6.99/ 100ft

Handles for Pattern 31

-

Overall Length: 7 3/16”, Blade Length: 3 1/4”, Width: 1 1/16”, Thickness: 1/8” CAT.#

ST EE EE L

F IN INI SH SH

P RI RICE

J4598 1095 Satin J459K 1095 Black Teflon J4527 D2 Steel Peened J4528 D2 Steel Satin J4507 440C Peened 440C J4508 Satin J4589 Damascus Random

CAT.#

SHEATH

KT450 KT455


40

24.95 24.95 32.95 32.95 32.95 32.95 79.95

PRICE 12.95 9.95

colors

Rivets/Pattern 31 Torx Screw for use with the G10 textured handles. Corby rivets for use with Dymondwood handles for flush surface.

Contoured and textured handles for Pattern 31. Cut slightly slightly oversized for proper proper fitting. More handle options are offered online. Handles Smooth No Texture

Overall length 7 5/8”, Blade Length 3”, Blade Width 1 1/8”, Blade Thickness 5/32”. Bolster holes holes 1/8”, Handle Holes 1/4”, Thong Hole 1/4”. Cryo Tempered. Tempered. CAT.# J3128 J3148 J3198 J319K J3189

STEEL

FINISH

D2 Satin 154CM Satin 1095 Satin 1095 Black Damascus Etched

HRC

59-61 58-59 57-58 57-58 58-60

PRICE 31.95 35.95 24.95 24.95 99.95

Pattern 36 Blades

CAT.#

D3149 G3119 G3129

COLOR

MATERIAL

PRICE

B.I./Cocobolo Black Red

Dymondwood G10 G10

16.95 18.95 18.95

Handles Basket Weave Texture CAT.#

M3131 G3111 G3131 G3151

COLOR

MATERIAL

PRICE

Red Black Orange Olive Drab

Micarta G10 G10 G10

16.95 21.95 21.95 21.95

Handles for Pattern 36

CAT.# B451 A461 B660 A624

TYPE

ALLOY

Torx Torx Corby Corby

Brass Stainless Brass Stainless

PR PRICE 3.95 4.95 3.49 3.49

Bolsters /Pattern 31 260 brass and 410 stainless, with matching pins. 3/16" for G10 contoured handles and 1/4" for Dymondwood handles. CAT.#

THICK

K311 K316 K313 K314

3/16" 3/16" 1/4" 1/4"

Pins/Pattern

36

ALLOY

Brass Stainless Brass Stainless

PRICE 6.95 6.95 6.95 6.95

Handle pins available in brass and stainless steel. (Set of 6) Contoured and textured handles for Pattern 36. Cut slightly slightly oversized for proper proper fitting. More handle options are offered online. Handles Smooth No Texture

Overall length 7 5/8”, 5/8”, Blade Length 3”, Blade Width Width 1”, Blade Thickness 1/8”. Bolster holes 1/8”, Ha Handle ndle Holes 1/8”, Thong Hol Hole e 1/4”. Flat ground. CAT.# J3628 J3638 J3608 J3698 J369K J3689

STEEL

FINISH

D2 Satin CPMS30V Satin 440C Satin 1095 Satin 1095 Black Damascus Etched

HRC

59-61 59-61 57-58 57-58 57-58 58-60

PRICE 31.95 41.95 31.95 24.95 24.95 74.95

CAT.#

D3653 E3601 E3672

COLOR

MATERIAL

B.I./Rosewood Dymondwood Birdseye Maple Wood Desert Ironwood Wood

PRICE

G3610 G3630 G3650 G3660

SIZE

B826 A846

1/8” 1/8”

ALLOY

Brass Stainless

16.95

Bolsters/Pattern

24.95 39.95

Bolsters are oversized, for proper fitting and include two matching pins. Dry fit bolsters and polish front edges before peening it to the blade.

Handles Basket Weave Texture CAT.#

CAT.#

COLOR

MATERIAL

PRICE

Black Orange Olive Drab Blue/Black

G10 G10 G10 G10

21.95 21.95 21.95 21.95

CAT.#

THICK

K363 K364

3/16" 3/16"

Gif Certi�cates, Knie Projects and other kniemaking supplies online. Download our digital catalog online or request our ull color catalog or only $5.00 postage. J A N T Z * K N I F E M A K I N G . C O M * 8 0 0 - 3 5 1 - 8 9 0 0

PRICE 1.99 1.99

36

ALLOY

Brass Stainless

PRICE 6.95 6.95

Buyer’s FOOD& FOOD&WATER Guide

1

LIFESTRAW

PRODUCT: Personal Water Filter WEBSITE: BuyLifeStraw.com PRICE: $19.95

2

SAWYER PRODUCTS

CAMELBAK

3PRODUCT: Groove Insulated

PRODUCT: Mini Water Filtration System WEBSITE: Sawyer.com PRICE: $19.93

Bottles

• Removes minimum 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria (>LOG 6 reduction) and surpasses EPA standards for water filters • Removes minimum 99.9% of waterborne protozoan parasites (>LOG 3 reduction) and filters to an amazing 0.2 microns • Filters up to 1,000 liters of contaminated water without using iodine, chlorine or other chemicals • Comes in a sealed bag, perfect for storing for emergencies

Specifications:

Specifications:

• Ideal for outdoor recreation, hiking, camping, scouting, domestic and international travel and emergency preparedness • High-performance filter fits in the palm of your hand, weighs 2 ounces and filters up to 100,000 gallons (30 times more than comparable filters) • Attaches to included drinking pouch, standard disposable water bottles, hydration packs, or use the straw to drink directly from your water source

• Turns tap water into fresh, great-tasting water anywhere you go • Easy-to-refill and easy-to-use bottle with a filter built into the straw • Certified by NSF International to reduce chlorine, taste and odor • Sustainable, plant-based filter lasts about three months or 48 gallons of water • Lifetime guarantee

Defining Features: LifeStraw is an

Defining Features: Are you looking for

award-winning product used by humanitarians in third world countries that lack the luxury of safe drinking water. Not only is this water filter inexpensive, it’s compact, perfect for storing in your backpack or your car’s glove compartment. Filtering water couldn’t be any easier—in less than 30 seconds, you’ll have clean drinking water. All you need is a puddle of water and you’ll be drinking in no time. While a lot of water filters come with an after-taste, this one does not; it provides great-tasting water every time.

a lightweight and versatile water filtration system? Look no further than the Mini Water Filter from Sawyer Products. Don’t let its size fool you; it provides the highest level of filtration—up to 10 million parts of bacteria. It’s not just reliable, it’s long-lasting; filters up to 100,000 gallons of water, 30 times more than similar water filters. The size makes it perfect for camping trips.

WEBSITE: Camelbak.com PRICE: $30

Specifications:

Defining Features: Camelbak is so

much more than an ordinary water bottle. It provides the useful ability to transform ordinary tap water into filtered water in mere seconds. The leak-proof lid keeps you dry and your water ice cold for hours. There’s no need to bother with a cumbersome filtration system; this water bottle serves as a two-in-one water filter and bottle. The water is chlorine free, so you can enjoy great-tasting water each time.

SAWYER PRODUCTS

2 $19.93

LIFESTRAW

4 1 0 2

1 $19.95 CAMELBAK

3 $30

R E B M E T P E S

54


FOOD& FOOD&WATER

4

LIFESTRAW

5

PRODUCT: Family 1.0 Water

Purifier

MSR

PRODUCT: Miniworks EX

6

Buyer’s Guide

KATADYN PRODUCT: Micropur MP1

WEBSITE: BuyLifeStraw.com PRICE: $89.95

Microfilter WEBSITE: Amazon.com PRICE: $89.95

Purification Tablets WEBSITE: Katadyn.com PRICE: $8.95-$22.06

Specifications:

Specifications:

Specifications:

• Purifies 18,000 liters/4755 gallons without iodine, chlorine, or other chemicals. • Provides clean drinking water for a family of four for three years • Gravity filter—pour water in the top and clean water comes out the bottom • Flow rate of 2.38 to 3.17 gallons per hour

• Lightweight and effective water filter designed for expedition use in demanding environments • Durable carbon and ceramic element ensures safe, taste-free water—even with frequent, heavy use • Fast flow of up to 1 liter per minute with the AirSpring Accumulator • Field cleanable and maintainable— without tools • Effective against protozoa, bacteria, chemicals/toxins and particulates

• Only EPA-registered purification tablets effective against viruses, bacteria and cysts • The same chlorine dioxide treatment used to disinfect municipal water supplies • One MicroPur tablet treats 1 full quart of water • Available in packs of 20 or 30 tablets


something a bit more advanced to filter your water? From the makers of LifeStraw, comes the Family 1.0 Water Purifier. This powerful filtration system can filter out viruses from 4,750 gallons of water, enough water to last a family of five up to three years. It’s easy to use for the whole family—simply pour water in the top and purified, ready to drink water comes out the bottom. Your water is conveniently poured into a sealed bag, so you can save it for later.

Defining Features: Why deal with

unpleasant tastes and chemical contaminants when you don’t have to? Filter fresh-tasting water without any tools. The MSR Miniworks EX Microfilter is a fast-flowing water filter, proving up to one liter per minute of filtered water. Filter up to 528 gallons of water, free from harmful bacteria, including protozoa and particulates. This water filter is lightweight and compact; no bug-out bag would be complete without it.


something a bit more compact than a filtration system? Katadyn Micropur MP1 Purification Tablets may be what you’re looking for. These water tablets come in a small package of 20 or 30 tablets, but it treats up to one full quart of water. They’re perfect for backpacking trips in the wilderness or for storing in your car. Hands down, these tablets provide the best tasting filtered water. Although it takes four hours to treat the water, you can be at ease knowing your drinking water is safe.

MSR

5 $89.95

KATADYN

LIFESTRAW

4 $89.95

6 $8.95-$22.06

S E P T E M B E R

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55

Buyer’s FOOD& FOOD&WATER Guide

MOUNTAIN HOUSE

WISE FOOD

FOOD HEALTH

7PRODUCT: Just in Case Freeze

8 PRODUCT: Entrée Only Grab and

9PRODUCT: Emergency Survival

Dried Food Assortments WEBSITE: MountainHouse.com PRICE: $79.99

Go Food Kit WEBSITE: WiseFoodStorage.com PRICE: $80.99-$276.19

Food Supply 275 Meal Pack WEBSITE: www.Amazon.com PRICE: $299

Specifications:

Specifications:

Specifications:

• Assortment contains 12 pouches per bucket (32 servings) • Flavors: Four rice and chicken, four chili mac, and four spaghetti • Just mix contents with boiling water in the pouch provided, let stand for a few minutes, and then serve; re-sealable foil pouch helps retain warmth • Made in the United States • Shelf life: 10 years from the manufacturing date listed on the back of each pouch

• 60 servings • Just add water • Good for 25 years

• 275 servings • Weatherproof bucket • Shelf life: 20 years

Defining Features: Don’t balk at its

Defining Features: If you’re looking for

heftier price tag; this emergency food is worth every penny. Although it isn’t the best-tasting food you’ll ever eat, it’s long lasting and will provide you with the energy you need in an emergency. The high-quality packaging can preserve your food for 25 years. The buckets are also ideal for storage when the food is all gone. If you’re unsure about the product, you can even request a few free samples from Wise Food’s website.

enough food to last you for the months to come, Food Health’s emergency food supply is your product of choice. It provides 275 meal packs (200 servings) with a 20-year shelf life. This food gives an-all new meaning to great taste, and it’s nutritious and easy to prepare. The weatherproof bucket ensures your food will stay protected from the elements during a storm. Enjoy hearty meals for breakfast, lunch and supper.

Defining Features: The Mountain

House is known for its great-tasting emergency food and this kit doesn’t disappoint. If you’re tired of the same old boring freeze-dried foods, you should definitely give this product a chance. This bucket includes 12 pouches, which is enough for 32 meals. One bucket is plenty to last a week in the outdoors. Simply add boiling water and you’ll have tasty meals every time.

“ONE BUCKET IS PLENTY TO LAST A WEEK IN THE OUTDOORS.”

FOOD HEALTH

9 $299

MOUNTAIN HOUSE

7 $79.99 4 1 0 2 R E B M E T P E S

56

WISE FOOD

8 $80.99-$279.19 A M E R I C A N S U R V I V AL AL G U ID ID E

FOOD& FOOD&WATER

MEAL KIT SUPPLY

AUGASON FARMS PRODUCT: EMERGENCY FOOD

PRODUCT: MRE (Meals, Ready to Eat),

Pack of 6 WEBSITE: MealKitSupply.com PRICE: $44.95

SUPPLY, VARIETY WEBSITE: AugasonFarms.com PRICE: $22.47

Buyer’s Guide

MEALSPEC PRODUCT: MRE Heater WEBSITE: MealSpec.com PRICE: $1.99 Specifications:


• Shelf stable, waterproof, impact resistant, and hermetically sealed against pests • All food consists of U.S. military MRE ration components; 600 or more calories per meal • Preppers’ Gold Standard for emergency food preparedness for earthquake, flood, fire and hurricane • Meals made fresh by U.S. Department of Defense contractors with flameless ration heaters Defining Features: MRE is a fancy

acronym for “Meals, Ready to Eat.” Originally designed for use by the U.S. military, it provides the potential for hot and nutritious meals anyplace, anytime. This package is lightweight with only the essentials, perfect for carrying in your bug-out bag. The kit includes enough food to last you an entire week, plus utensils and a flameless ration heater.

• 111 servings, 11 pouches • 16, 400 total calories; just add water • No refrigeration needed • Packed in a four-gallon pail with handle

• Activation time is four minutes • Run time is up to 12 minutes • Medial temperature: 180 degrees • Peak temperature: 220 degrees • Can boil and sterilize water • Shelf life of five years

Defining Features: The Augason Farms

Emergency Food offers an assortment of great-tasting food in a convenient fourgallon storage pail. Choose from a variety of great-tasting flavors, including buttermilk pancakes and maple and brown sugar oatmeal for breakfast; and cheesy broccoli rice and creamy chicken rice for lunch and dinner. Servings—111 of them—come in 11 convenient pouches, providing 16,400 calories, enough to last you for days. Simply add water and the food is ready to eat; easy as pie.

Defining Features: What use is emer-

gency food if you can’t heat it? MealSpec is a state-of-the-art, reliable flameless meal heater. MealSpec reaches 220 degrees Fahrenheit in 12 seconds and features a run time of 12 minutes. With this handy heater you can can hard-boil an egg and even cook fish fillets. This MRE heater is a perfect add-on for disaster preparedness, camping and hunting excursions. MEALSPEC

12 $1.99

“MEALSPEC REACHES 220 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT IN 12 SECONDS AND FEATURES A RUN TIME OF 12 MINUTES.”

MEAL KIT SUPPLY

10 $44.95

AUGASON FARMS

11 $22.47

S E P T E M B E R

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57

HOMESTEAD IN THIS SECTION

OVERABUNDANCE + RAISING RABBITS

+

LIVE OFF GRID

+

LOG CABIN

HOMESTEADING HINTS Practical Knowledge To Help You Live Off The Grid MAKING A LIFE on the homestead is more than satisfying— it’s a soul-filling feeling when you can provide everything you need for your family using just your skills and your property. Even though the lifestyle isn’t always easy, it is completely rewarding for most everyone who practices it. Whether you’re taking the first steps to a homesteading lifestyle or you’ve been cultivating your land for several generations, you’ll benefit from some of the latest tips that can keep you well fed and sheltered. On the following pages, you’ll find out what it takes to raise rabbits, how to live off grid and the best way to make a log cabin into a comfortable and sturdy home.


4 1 0 2 R E B M E T P E S

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t P C X E , E E G A R N h t E O N O R S O O D N t h E W I N , t t I Y B L L A I I E R L t Y, Q UA L I t t Y D U RA B I L L I t

When you own a Del-Ton rifle, you are are guaranteed: guaranteed: you                                Del-Ton Del-T on Incorporated Incorporated is a manufacturer of quality on AR-15 style modern sporting rifles and your online source for parts, upgrades, accessories, optics, and custom rifle kits. Ask your dealer about Del-Ton Del-Ton rifles or visit del-ton.com. Del-Ton about Del-T

*For as long as you own it

www.del-ton.com

www.facebook.com/deltoninc

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HOMESTEAD

PRESERVE TO CONSERVE BUMPER CROP OF TOMATOES? STOCKPILE THAT BOUNTY FOR AN EMERGENCY BY AMBER ERICKSON GABBEY

Homesteaders all know that bumper crops of any fruit or vegetable can cause issues. Tomatoes are the perfect fruit (yes, a tomato is technically a fruit) to grow because they are nutritious and delicious, but when they begin to ripen, they often do so at a rate that’s too rapid to eat. Waste not, want not is every prepper’s motto, so it will behoove you to make sure no tomato goes to waste. We have one word for you: preserve. If a survival situation should occur, preserved tomatoes don’t require any refrigeration or cooking, making them an ideal go-to food. Come midwinter, when you seriously need some fresh foods, you’ll be glad you took the time to preserve when the bounty was at its peak. FRESH


If you love fresh tomatoes and use them in all sorts of fresh dishes, keep in mind that you will have less (but still plenty) to save for later. For many, it’s a balance of eating enough right away to appreciate the flavor of a freshly picked tomato, but saving enough to preserve. Some common ways to eat fresh tomatoes include eating them raw and sliced, perhaps with salt and pepper or sugar sprinkled on top. Other common uses include using them in salads, on sandwiches, in salsa and in fresh tomato sauces for pasta. After you pick your fresh tomatoes, store them at room temperature out of direct sun. They should last like this for several days. Do not store in the refrigerator; it zaps their taste. But cooling does slow ripening, so if you have tomatoes that are getting overly ripe and you’re not ready to use them, store them in the fridge. If you plan to eventually preserve your tomatoes, use them when they are ripe, but not overripe.

HEALTH BENEFITS Tomatoes are not only tasty; they are packed with vital nutrients. Lycopene, the nutrient most attributed to tomatoes, is actually a carotenoid (like carrots); it gives the fruit its bright red hue. Cooking tomatoes makes the lycopene more available to the body. Research suggests that lycopene is helpful in preventing certain cancers. Other than lycopene, tomatoes also contain vitamin C, potassium and vitamin A (which comes from beta-carotene, another carotenoid). Vitamin A helps with eye health. Perhaps most important, tomatoes contain antioxidants which help contain free radicals in the body and reduce inflammation. Some physicians are linking inflammation to a wide variety of serious health conditions, like heart disease and cancer, which makes antioxidants that much more helpful and important.

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PRESERVE TO CONSERVE Dried Tomatoes

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Another great way to utilize tomatoes is to dry them. All you need is the tomatoes, some Ziploctype bags and an oven, a food dehydrator or even just an automobile and a hot, sunny day. First, cut the tomatoes in half lengthwise and cut out the tough part around the stem, as well as any bruised or soft areas. If you’ve got a dehydrator, lay the tomatoes out on the tray, sprinkle with salt and set the thermostat for 140 degrees F. You’ll have dried dried tomatoe tomatoess in three to eight hours. If you’re using an oven, preheat it to 150 degrees F, arrange tomatoes on cake racks, close the oven and wait for 10 to 20 hours. If all you’ve got is a car on a sunny day, spread the tomatoes out on a shallow tray and cover them loosely with cheesecloth. Put the tray on your dashboard and aim the car toward direct sunlight. This method could take up to two days, so be patient. Let the tomatoes cool to room temp, then put them in the Ziploc-type bag (make sure you squeeze out all the air from the bag). Store in a cool, dry place (the freezer is best) and they will last for nine months to a year. Make sure you get as much moisture out of them as you possibly can, because they will mold if there is too much moisture. If you have access to a vacuum sealer, use it.


PRESERVED

Two of the most common ways to preserve foods is freezing or canning. Both options are great for preserving your harvest, it just depends on your time, preference or freezer space. Freezing tomatoes is an easy way to preserve. Since freezing changes the texture of the fruit, it’s best to use frozen tomatoes in cooked dishes. Some good options are making soups, sauces or sautéing. You can freeze whole, sliced, sliced, chopped, pureed or juiced tomatoes. The most basic way to freeze tomatoes is to wash them, remove the stem and core, slice or cut (if desired) and throw them into freezer bags. You can also roast tomato tomato halves in the oven oven or simmer or stew tomatoes before freezing. Both raw and cooked tomatoes freeze well, but save the seasoning until when you use the frozen tomatoes. Note: It’s best to eat frozen tomatoes within six months or so. To safely can tomatoes, you will need to use sterile jars and a pressure cooker or hot water bath. This makes the process more time consuming than freezing, but for many, it’s worth it. You can do whole stewed, diced or crushed tomatoes or make sauces, salsas or soups. Use a pressure cooker if you want to save time; they can be a bit costly, but are generally faster than doing a hot water bath, especially if you live at higher altitudes. The hot water bath involves adding the tomatoes to jars, then submerging the jars in boiling water and removing after a specific amount of time. This kills off bacteria and seals the jars to keep the food safe and fresh for future use. THE PERFECT FOOD

Whether you eat them all fresh or can them all to feed your family for the winter, tomatoes are a great option to have around the house. They are versatile and packed with tons of vitamins and other nutrients to keep you healthy, especially when fresh foods aren’t accessible or available. Have fun with your tomato harvest this year by finding new recipes and experimenting with solutions that work for your harvest, schedule and taste buds. Amber Erickson Gabbey, M.A., is a freelance writer and holistic health expert living at 8,500 feet in the mountains outside of Boulder, CO.

Fresh Salsa Fresh Salsa 2-3 tomatoes (more if they are small) 1 small onion 1-2 jalapeño (if you want some heat) or 1 poblano pepper (for crunch without the heat) 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro Juice of one lime Salt to taste Chop everything to the size you like, mix and let it sit at least 30 minutes. Stir before serving with chips, fish, tacos or eggs. Do not can salsa.

Simple Tomato Simple Tomato Sauce 50 tomatoes 1 large onion 10 cloves garlic 1⁄4 cup (or more) of fresh chopped basil 1 tbsp lemon juice per jar (only for canning, not when freezing) 7 glass pint jars If freezing, sauté onion and garlic in a bit of oil (olive or coconut both work well) until the onion is translucent. Add tomatoes and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pour mixture into food processor and puree. Put pureed mixture and chopped basil into a pot and simmer until the sauce is reduced by about half, stirring frequently. Add to a freezer-safe container and freeze. If canning, make the recipe the same as above, but add the lemon juice and sauce to sterilized jars and put in a hot water bath for 35 minutes.


HOMESTEADING

raising K C O T S K N I H T Y B S O T O H P

Rabbits AN EASY, LOW-COST WAY TO PROVIDE PROTEIN YEAR ROUND BY MICHELE DOELE

IN

ORDER TO SURVIVE LONG-TERM, YOU ABSOLUTELY NEED A PLAN TO PRODUCE FOOD. Breeding rabbits for meat is an easy, low-cost, highreturn-on-investmen return-on-investmentt solution for providing lean meat for your family year round. Rabbits are known as the most-efficient small livestock; all they require is a small area that’s kept clean in the right environment and proper feeding to become the answer to your protein needs and help fertilize your garden as well. Mark Elwell and his wife have been running Rocky’s Rabbits, a meat-focused rabbitry in Bowdoin, Maine, for 10 years. They strive to provide quality stock, the necessary equipment and plenty of guidance to new and experienced breeders who want to provide a healthy source of meat to their families.

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raising

Rabbit

Feeding rabbits hay helps them maintain a healthy digestive system and promotes tooth growth. Introducing greens in small quantities to prevent a shock to the digestive system.

DIY HUTCH Purchase 14-gauge wire with ½ x 1-inch holes in 3-foot sections. Cut and use J hooks every 2 inches to attach pieces. Cut out a section for the door and attach that with J hooks. Secure the door with a simple latch. Use the following dimensions for a 36 x 30-inch hutch.

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• Front: 36 x 18 inches • Back: 36 x 18 inches • Top: 36 x 30 inches • Floor: 36 x 30 inches • Sides: 36 x 18 inches • Door: 13 x 14 inches


IS YOUR HOMESTEAD RIGHT? suring at least 30 x 30 inches. Keeping the “One of the most important things before does separated helps them establish their beginning a venture into raising rabbits or territory and nesting area. You can build or any livestock is to check your local zoning buy nesting boxes, but keep in mind rabbits ordinances,” says Elwell. do enjoy nibbling on wooden boxes, so metal Because rabbits are not considered liveis a longer-lasting solution. To reap the most stock, many government agencies have no benefits from breeding, hang the cage restrictions on breeding. Unlike chickens or directly over a compost pile. Alternatively, ducks, rabbits are not noisy creatures; so as you can spread rabbit droppings directly on long as you keep the cages clean to limit plants without fear of burning them. odors and flies, your neighbors might not even know you have them. BREEDS AND BREEDING The number-one killer of rabbits is heat. The two breeds that provide the highest They prefer cooler temperatures and need to meat-to-bone ratio are New Zealand and Calhave a well-ventilated cage with ifornian. Be careful not to be enticed plenty of fresh air. If you do live live by the larger breeds. While they in a warmer climate, make appear to have more meat, sure you are getting your their bones are larger, thus BARTERING rabbits fairly close to reducing the meat-toyour homestead since bone ratio. BONUS they will be acclimated “I highly recomAs you determine the right herd size, talk with to those temperatures. mend buying your rabother homesteaders and work out some barterEven in cooler clibits from a breeder ing arrangements. They may not want to raise mates, the cage with a good reputation rabbits, but they will certainly recognize the benshould be located in or one that has been efits of healthy protein from a source they the shade and probreeding them for a know. If you do not have space or do not tected from wind. while,” Elwell cautions. want to garden, swapping meat for “Never buy a rabbit that vegetables is an ideal solution. FIRST THINGS FIRST does not appear to be in “Get your rabbitry or perfect health, period. Stick cages set up before buying the with your gut instinct and if it rabbits; this will make the transition doesn’t look healthy, it probably isn’t.” If you are just starting out, two to three much easier on both you and the rabbits,” does and one buck is plenty. Does can have advises Elwell. He recommends either wire hanging or five litters in a year that produce two to 14 stacking cages with removable pans. Each kits (babies). Breeding too quickly after a litdoe and buck will need a separate cage meater can be stressful on the doe and eventually burn her out. Bring the buck to the doe’s

[RIGHT] You can p urchase rabbit cages in a feed or pet store or online; you can also build one yourself with a few tools, some supplies and a little time. [INSET] Any sign s of illness , such as prolonged sneezing or discharge, should result in immediate quarantine.


BENEFITS K C O T S K N I H T Y B S O T O H P

Rabbits provide a very high meat-to-bone ratio and also contain the lowest amount of fat and cholesterol among protein sources. In addition, they are easy to digest, all the meat is white, and one rabbit provides six pounds of meat from the same amount of feed a cow needs to produce one pound of meat.

cage for breeding to avoid the male becoming territorial. The gestation period is around 31 days, but can go a few days early or late. Keep track of your breeding cycles so you know when the kits are due.

FOOD AND HEALTH For those new to breeding, Elwell recommends a good-quality brand rabbit pellet with a 16-percent protein minimum for bucks and growing kits and 18-percent for nursing does and kits. While many people feed table scraps to rabbits, Elwell advises to start with small amounts to allow the rabbit’s digestive system to adapt. Changing pellets or introducing new foods too quickly can result in a sick rabbit or a sudden death. Elwell also treats the rabbits to hay every few days as a means of keeping the digestive system moving and teeth in check. “Dust or mold from wet or old hay can also result in a sick or dead rabbit,” warns Elwell. The hay should be of good quality and be kept dry. Maintaining Maintaining healthy animals is vital, as diseases can spread quickly and wipe out your entire herd. Quarantine any new animals for 30-60 days so you can determine if any signs of illness are present. One of the first signs of a sick rabbit is not eating. “If a rabbit goes off feed, the first thing you should do is remove the pellets and feed it only hay until it gets its appetite back or you determine the cause,” Elwell says. He personally does not free feed but rather measures food, which enables him to quickly identify changes in eating habits. Any rabbits with white discharge from the nose or mouth should be quarantined or replaced. Such symptoms are more than likely the result of Pastuerella, Pastuerella, a highly contagious disease with no known cure that spreads rapidly through the herd.

BUTCHERING AND COOKING “The average dress-out weight should give you a minimum of 50-percent and up to 65-percent in meat,” claims Elwell. This translates into the average litter of eight kits providing 20-25 pounds of meat. With several litters a year, a family of four can easily fill their freezer and enjoy high-quality, lean meat all year. When the time comes to butcher your rabbits you may choose to have a butcher do it or handle it yourself. If you do decide to butcher your rabbits, take the time to find a method that causes the least amount of trauma to the animal and yourself. Rabbits can be butchered at 10 weeks. Fryers are up to three months old and their tender meat can be used as a substitute for any recipe calling for chicken. Elwell notes the fryer meat absorbs flavoring incredibly well and recommends marinating before grilling because it’s so lean. Beyond three months, the animals are considered roasters, which weigh between 9-10 pounds. These larger, tougher rabbits should be used in stews or braised to tenderize the meat. TAKE CONTROL Raising rabbits is a great addition to your food sources if you’re bugging out or homesteading. They are easy to raise and they multiply quickly. Perhaps most important for preppers, however, is that you’re able to break free from traditional ways of getting food. “You are in control of your food source,” says Elwell.

ABOVE, LEFT] [ ABOVE, Simply substitute rabbit in your favorite chicken recipe for a delicious and healthy alternative. ABOVE, RIGHT] [ ABOVE, High meat-to-bone ratio results in a bountiful yield of healthy protein.

RESOURCES To find breeders in your area, visit American Rabbit Breeders Association at Arba.net. For a comprehensive list of illnesses and symptoms, visit RabbitBreeders.us. For more information on Mark Elwell of Rocky’s Rabbits, visit: Facebook.com/RockysRabbits

S E P T E M B E R

Michele Doele is a freelance writer who also works at The Damariscotta Lake Farm in Jefferson, Maine.

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HOMESTEAD

The Crafts’ home sits on nearly 100 acres in Northern New York State.

LIVING OFF THE GRID HAS ITS DRAWBACKS, BUT THE REWARDS FAR OUTWEIGH THEM FOR THE CRAFT FAMILY TEXT AND PHOTOS BY STEVEN PAUL BARLOW

B

EING SELF-SUFFICIENT IS WHAT PREPPING IS ALL ABOUT. Living off-grid is a goal for many of us—and a worthwhile one. When Rick and Amy Craft started seeking a little elbow room in which to raise their family, they didn’t know they were well on their way to settling in to a self-sufficient way of life and becoming comfortable with all of the benefits and sacrifices that would entail.

Homesteaders Rick and Amy Craft and their daughters Juniper (left) and Wyntre enjoy their rural off-thegrid lifestyle in Northern New York State.

THE 411 The Crafts are raising their two daughters, Wyntre, age 7, and Juniper, age 3, on a 100-acre homestead they purchased in 2002, completely off the grid in a remote area in northern New York. They use wind and solar power to provide electricity and cut their own wood to fuel their stove to heat their home in the winter. They eat vegetables from their own gardens and fruit from their own trees to supplement any meat Rick is able to obtain through hunting. “Being off the grid, we hesitated at first,” Rick said. “The house was on the market for about two years and we actually visited the house three times over three different seasons—fall, winter and spring. What really clinched it for us was when we asked him (the owner) to show us one of his favorite spots on the property and he took us for a walk down some of these trails through the woods and it was just beautiful.”


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the the GOOD LIFE

“LIVING OFF-GRID IS A GOAL FOR MANY OF US—AND A WORTHWHILE ONE.” For the Crafts, there are no Broadway plays or bright city lights. But they have miles of trails suitable for hiking or riding an ATV or snowmobile. They have no television or Internet, but they are attuned to nature’s steady parade, to the deer, turkeys and occasional bear that wander into view. Bluebirds nest and raise their young just outside their windows.

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CHANGE IS GOOD The few adjustments to living off the grid actually came easy to them. “You don’t have your computer on all the time. You don’t have a television running,” Amy said. “Once you get used to the routine, it’s just second nature. You don’t think about turning the lights out because you just do it. You walk out of the room, you turn the light off.” The Crafts aren’t totally independent from the outside world. Both Rick and Amy still have full-time jobs. But they are more buffered from potentially devastating natural and societal occurrences that can disrupt


[TOP LEFT] The wind generator, 105 feet in the air, is erected on a gin pole with cables that allows it to be lowered whenever maintenance is required. [TOP RIGHT] A 1,500-wat t windmill and two solar arrays generate all of the electricity the family needs. [RIGHT] The Crafts have a 5,500-watt generator powered by propane as a backup to their wind and so lar system.

POWER SOURCES GENERATE—Powering the Crafts’

home took more thought than simply calling a company to turn on the electricity. Because they are in such a rural area, it would have cost about $30,000 to have the power company run the poles and wires to their homestead, so generating their own electricity was a better option. HARNESS—To take advantage of

ABOVE] Plastic barrels catch rainwater to be used to water the [ ABOVE Crafts’ gardens.

[BELOW] Craft’s ATV is an all-around workhorse used to haul firewood and gardening materials and to do some light snowplowing during the winter.

the local breezes, the Crafts have a 1500-watt wind generator. It’s on a gin pole with cables that provides the leverage to lower the 105-foot windmill tower more easily whenever maintenance is necessary. Rick has had to lower the windmill maybe three times in 10 years to change the brushes or bearings in the generator or to inspect the Fiberglas wings for cracks. USE SUN—The Crafts have two

solar arrays on their property. The first array consists of 10 panels and was on the property when they bought it. “The first set of solar panels is older technology,” Rick said. “Those panels are probably about 2 feet by 4 feet and they put out about 75 watts each.” Their newer array is about four years old and is much more efficient. Each of eight panels in this array generates about 125 watts. “For the most part the solar panels are much more efficient and maintenance free and they last much longer,” Rick said. “The solar does about 90 percent of what we need and the windmill probably only about 10 percent.” USE IT UP—As the batteries

approach a full charge, the DC

charge controllers on their system automatically drop the charging rate down to a trickle. Any extra energy generated is not wasted. It’s diverted to a hot water tank to preheat water that’s then fed into their boiler. COMPLETE CONTROL—Every-

thing pertaining to the Crafts’ electrical system can be controlled from inside their home. While their solar panels are in a fixed position facing south, they can be tipped to match the sun’s changing elevation or to slide the snow buildup off of them in the winter. WOOD WARMTH— During the

winter, the Crafts heat their entire 1,800-square-foot home with a Hearthstone wood stove located between their kitchen and living room. If they are away from home and can’t stoke the stove, their hot-water baseboard heat kicks on automatically. Their home is efficient: they use about seven face cords of wood a year to heat their home. (A face cord is a stack of cut fire wood 4 feet high, by 8 feet long, by 18 inches wide.) “It’s typical for the wood stove to keep the living quarters at 80 degrees all winter long,” Rick said. “We’ll actually crack the windows to regulate the temperature and to let fresh air into the house.” EMERGENCY POWER—They also have an emergency backup 5,500-watt generator fueled by a 500-gallon propane tank. “That’s capable of charging the battery bank to full in about eight hours or so,” Rick said. “The generator will run for about seven days on a full tank of propane. The battery bank itself provides enough electricity for about five days.”

(continued on page 125) AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE

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HOMESTEAD

FORMIDABLE

FORTRESS

LIBERTY CUSTOM LOG HOMES OFFER SECURITY, DURABILITY AND AFFORDABILITY

BY TORREY KIM Photography Courtesty of LIBERTY LOG CABINS

AS

A PREPPER, YOU WANT A SOLID FORTRESS WHERE YOU CAN KEEP YOUR FAMILY SAFE, BUT ALSO ONE THAT DOESN’T RELY TOO HEAVILY ON USING PUBLIC UTILITIES. The good news is you can accomplish this goal without having to move off of your own property by customizing a Liberty Log Cabin for your specific needs. BUILT TOUGH

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“A properly built log home is more energy efficient than a frame home, says Charles Knight, vice president with Liberty Log Cabins. “It’s more airtight, and it has thermal mass that helps it stay warmer in winter and cooler in summer than a conventionally built insulated house.” In addition, a cedar home is naturally resistant to rot, decay, and insects, making it one of the most secure places you can live with your family. But if you are more likely to be seeking the cozy dream cabin of your dreams that you’ve been envisioning for years, the Liberty Log Cabin can attain that goal as well.” “The cabins have a natural warmth and beauty about them,” Knight says. “A log home is something people dream about and think about for years. They may buy four or five conventional homes in their lifetimes, but one day they want to buy a log home and we help people do that.”


CHOOSE YOUR SIZE Whether you’re looking for a tiny bug-out cabin or a huge, sprawling home, you can achieve your dream with the right log cabin design. Although you might think log homes are only available in small sizes, that’s a myth. “We’ve done a house up to 6,900 square feet and you can even go bigger than that,” Knight says. “Whatever specifications you have, we can typically work with them.”

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

One of the barriers that many people cite when they’re first on the hunt for a log cabin is that they don’t have a manufacturer or designer nearby. But you can easily jump that hurdle as long as you have the land available that will fit your dream cabin. “If someone has a piece of land anywhere in the country, we will walk the land with them and help them plan the house,” Knight says. “We’ll then make them an operational— almost idyllic—house because we custom design it based on what each person wants.” Liberty Log Cabins designers will then take the homeowner’s requests and design the home with those requirements in mind. They will manufacture the cedar components and send the materials to the build location, then work directly with local builders in that area to construct the house. “We work with local contractors directly because they know the local building restrictions, code enforcement officers, sources of the best concrete, and other essential issues that go along with building a home,” Knight says. “We stay on site for two-and-a-half days for technical assistance in case there are any

“A PROPERLY BUILT LOG HOME IS MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT THAN A FRAME HOME.” —CHARLES KNIGHT, VICE PRESIDENT, LIBERTY LOG CABINS

TAKE YOUR TIME Liberty Log Cabins works with you on your timeline, but don’t rush it— you can spend as long as you need to when you’re working on the design of your dream home. “The shortest time we ever had just to get someone started was four days and the longest is seven years,

so we don’t rush anyone; they need to be ready to build before finalizing their design,” Knight says. “Typically, we usually work with people for about two years before they start their house, which gives them time to work on the budget, size, specs, and so forth.”

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FORMIDABLE

FORTRESS

FAQs Can I do this myself? If you have basic knowledge of construction and are able to read a basic architectural plan then you can build your own Liberty Log cabin. The logs are pre-cut, the window and door openings are cut and corner details are drilled for the lags. Remember that there’s a tech supervisor onsite to teach you what to do. Can I afford this? There are a lot of factors that figure into cost of any construction, and a log home generally runs five percent more than a comparable frame home. The Friend & Family cabins offer economy of scale (there are only three models) and are optimized for material usage. If you don’t get fancy with the interior finish, the final cost should be about the same as a frame model of the same quality, but you’ll have the advantage of a solid cedar structure that’s airand watertight with low energy costs.

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Where do I start? First you need your land before you start planning your cabin. Next, the company meets with you and helps you design your cabin to your specs. Note: It generally takes two to four weeks less total build time for log as opposed to frame (fewer labor steps and fewer types of materials).


KNOW THIS ONE RESTRICTION You can do almost anything to a log home that you can accomplish in a frame-based home—except one. “The only design restriction we have is that we can’t put in corner windows,” Knight says. “The structural integrity of a log house is dependent on joining the corners properly, which you can’t do if windows are in the corner.”

issues that the builders might have. This is infinitely more helpful than just giving the contractor a video or website, because we can personally answer their specific questions.” TIME WAITS FOR NO ONE

You just don’t know when you’re going to need a safe place for you and your family. The sooner you start on your cabin in the woods, the sooner you’ll have peace of mind knowing you can hide in plain sight. In addition, friends and family can build the log cabins. In fact, Knight says, it’s possible to create an entire community of likeminded survivalists by constructing your cabin near other similar structures. Each cabin will then be hiding in plain sight among one other, ready to house all of the local families that are seeking similar lifestyles. Once the cabin is completely constructed, there’s only one thing left to do—move in and start living your dream.

LOG CABINS, OLD SCHOOL Log cabins weren’t always so comfortable. Some fun facts about old-style cabins: • Log cabins were often very small. Common sizes were 10 feet wide by 12 to 24 feet in length, and cabins were often a single room with a sleeping loft. • Large stones were used as foundation points for cabins to keep the logs out of direct contact with damp soil, which would encourage rot and deterioration of the wood. • Construction required stuffing available items, such as leaves, moss and dried manure, between the logs for insulation and filler. This stuffing was then covered with mud, both inside the cabin and out, to create “chinking” to seal out the elements. • Cabins were built in a variety of styles, including dogtrot, double-pen and saddle bag. Source: Ehow.com

Torrey Kim is a freelance writer based in Apex, N.C.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

To get a closer look at the designs that Liberty Log Cabins creates, visit the company’s website at: Logs.net

Buyer’s Guide BELTS

BELT BONANZA CHOOSE THE RIGHT TACTICAL BELT TO CARRY A HOST OF SURVIVAL MUSTS

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THERE ARE BELTS and then there are tactical belts. While everyday belts keep your pants up, tactical belts have the added bonus of holding your most important gear, including holsters and hunting knives. Choosing a belt comes down to balancing comfort with style. Before you select your ideal belt, you need to figure out where you’ll be wearing it the majority of the time. For example, if you’ll be wearing it with casual clothing, you’ll want a belt that’s lightweight. On the other hand, if you’ll be wearing it to hold your holster, you’ll want a heavy-duty belt you can count on when you need it most. Check out our selection of the belt tactical belts to carry your most prized outdoor gear.


L A C I T C A T O D I H S U B F O Y S E T R U O C O T O H P

BELTS

Buyer’s Guide

511 TACTICAL

1 $94.99

COLUMBIA

2 $15

BC BELTS

3 $6.99

JTC BELT

“TIGHTENING YOUR BELT SHOULD BE THE LEAST OF YOUR WORRIES WHEN YOU’RE IN A LIFE-OR-DEATH SITUATION.”

1

511 TACTICAL

PRODUCT: Maverick Assaulters Belt WEBSITE: 511Tactical.com PRICE: $94.99

COLUMBIA

2PRODUCT: Men’s MilitaryStyle Belt WEBSITE: Columbia.com PRICE: $15

4 $9.99

3

BC BELTS

JTC BELT

4 PRODUCT: Nice Shades

PRODUCT: Web Belt, Military Style WEBSITE: Amazon.com PRICE: $6.99

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ing for an inexpensive yet durable belt, you should consider BC Belt’s Web Belt Military Style belt. It’s perfect for securing either cargo pants during winter or khaki shorts during summer. The belt and buckle are high quality, especially for a price of less than $10. These belts look like they came straight out of the military.

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your belt should be the least of your worries when you’re in a lifeor-death situation. Maverick Assaulters Belt features a one-time adjustment—adjust it snugly for your waist size and forget about it. Not only is it easy to adjust, it’s simple to unbuckle, too. It’s strong enough to support all your gear without causing discomfort. It even comes with an added bonus— a quick-attach web loop at the front for hanging extra gear.

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Buyer’s BELTS Guide

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simple design fool you; the Condor Tactical Belt is one rugged belt, able to withstand the toughest of conditions. It fits easily around waist sizes up to 44 inches and adjusts to fit snug, but not too tight. The belt keepers ensure it stays where it’s supposed to sit. It even comes with two magazine pouches, perfect for storing extra ammunition.

BDU Belt is just the high-quality product you’d expect from Voodoo Tactical. It’s designed to be worn with Battle Dress Uniform (BDU), although you can wear it with your everyday clothes. This fully adjustable belt is made of nylon and includes a metal buckle with Velcro to keep your pants from sagging, resulting in a proper look. Measuring 1¾ inches wide, the belt is strong and durable.

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THOMAS BATES DESIGNS

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Thomas Bates Hiker Belt, notches are a thing of the past. The clasp works great for securing the belt. Even if you’ve put on a few extra pounds, as long as you leave some extra belt length, you can expand it to fit your extra girth. It comes with a durable polycarbonate plastic buckle, made to last. The belt comes in colors to suit different tastes, including black, navy, khaki, brown, olive, graphite and forest.

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4 1 0 2

Specifications:

VOODOO TACTICAL

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BELTS

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511 TACTICAL

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your pants up again. Rugged and dependable, the Trainer Belt is made of durable nylon mesh and features a high-quality, solid stainless steel belt buckle with an impressive 6,000-pound rating. Although it’s made for law enforcement professionals, it works great as off-duty wear as well. It’s sturdy enough to carry all your gear, including holster and accessories, without snagging or twisting.

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ing for a durable shooting belt, this super-strong offering is made from Mil-Spec nylon webbing and includes the patented Cobra loadbearing, quick- release fastener. The belt is guaranteed to last for years and features an internal stiffener to support holsters and pouches. It’s Velcro adjustable to ensure a perfect fit.

Defining Features: Are you look-

ing for an easy way to keep your tactical gear organized on the go? The UTG Heavy Duty Web Belt is perfect for holding all your tactical gear. It’s perfect for holding your holsters and can support tools or a sidearm with a few spare mags. At 2 inches thick, it’s made to last. The versatile Velcro system adds strength and versatility.

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WILDERNESS IN THIS SECTION

LOW-TECH SOLUTIONS

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COMPASS NAVIGATION

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WILD EDIBLES

HOW WOULD YOU describe your favorite salad? Some greens, a touch of fruit and perhaps some seasoning? You don’t need to head to the grocery store to secure the ingredients of this timetested delectable. Instead, there is a way to find edible plants in the wilderness, if you use careful identification skills and remind your palate what real wild food tastes like. On the following pages, you’ll find out exactly which summer plants are safe and tasty to consume, as well as tips on how to ensure you’ll never be lost. Consider these navigation pointers the next time you head out on the dusty trail so you can always find your way back without a problem. And if you do get lost, read on to learn exactly how to “get found.”

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WILDERNESS

SIMPLE SOLUTIONS LOW-TECH WAYS TO GET FOUND IN THE WILD BY MICHAEL NEISWENDER

M

OBILE PHONES HAVE MADE IT SO EASY TO CALL FOR HELP IN AN EMERGENCY THAT MANY OUTDOORSPEOPLE FORGET HOW LOST THEY CAN BE WITHOUT ONE. These days, it’s a quick dial of the phone to 911 or a text message to a friend and you’re in touch with rescue. But if the phone is damaged, dead, left behind or just unexpectedly out of range, the situation is quite different, and you’re back to signaling for help the way you would 50 years ago. Granted, you could carry a satellite phone or an EPIRB, but that’s still of no use if you get separated from your gear. It pays to review the basics of low-tech signaling so you’re prepared for a situation like this. Read Re ad on to learn about established international conventions and techniques for signaling that could get you out of a nasty jam. RULE OF THREE

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Whatever method you choose to signal for help, you need to make sure it stands out from the background noise. The international convention, based on the Morse code



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signal, is a group of any three signals—visual or audible. It’s based on the original SOS code of three dots/three dashes/three dots. You must deliver any signal intended for search and rescue in a clear group of three evenly spaced sounds or three clearly defined visuals arranged in a triangle. One gun blast might be a hunter, but three evenly spaced blasts repeated at intervals is a clear signal to rescuers. THE HIGH ROAD

If you are mobile, you want to get to the highest area and one with the largest clear and open space you can find. If you’ve got a 10-mile horizon, rescuers can potentially see your signal from that far away. In most cases,

backcountry searches will include an air search, so being in the open is key to being seen by an aircraft. FIRE IT UP

The simplest and most effective method to signal for help is to build three signal fires in the shape of a triangle. Fire is great because you get long-range visibility from the columns of smoke during the day. Fire is also ideal at night when the bright flame is visible for miles. Use common sense when you build a fire so you don’t inadvertently start a wildfire. Fires don’t have to be large as much as they have to be smoky, so build yours with hardwood and pile on green leaves and branches, grass and wet leaves; or, you can even douse

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SIMPLE SOLUTIONS parts of the fire with water to create as much smoke as possible. If you can’t tend to three fires due to injury or other reasons like limited resources, build a single fire, but try to use the native smoke signal technique. Briefly cover a very smoky fire with a tarp, coat or a mat of green branches. Then periodically remove the cover to let out a large cloud of smoke. Do this three times to send up a signal of three puffs of smoke. BE FLASHY

You can make a highly effective visual signal to aircraft or distant rescuers with a mirror or other reflector on a sunny day. This is such a simple tool that you should always carry an emergency mirror with you (some are the size of a credit card and can fit in your wallet or pocket). Even without a signal mirror you can improvise with other reflective

MIRROR SIGNALING

4 1 0 2

To signal with a mirror, face the sun and hold the mirror to your eye so the sun is reflected away from you. Raise the back of your hand a full arm’s length and focus the reflection from the mirror onto the back of your hand. Next, pick an object some distance away—for target practice, practice, try to get something reflective, like a stop sign, so you’ll know you’re hitting it. Hold the mirror close to your eye (or over your eye if you are using a rescue mirror with an aiming hole) then track your extended hand so it covers your line of sight on the distant target while you keep the reflected light aimed on your hand. When aimed properly, your hand blocks the light from the mirror to the target. Drop your hand to send the signal flash to the target, then raise it again to end the signal. Repeat this three times to send a recognizable distress signal. When it comes to aircraft signaling, use the same method and track your hand along with the movement of the aircraft.

Once you are noticed by a potential rescuer, particularly in an aircraft, raise both arms overhead in a Y shape to indicate that “YES,” you need help. You can even do this laying on the ground if you are immobilized. Be aware that in rescue parlance, one hand up and one down like an N shape indicates that “NO,” rescue is not needed. Make sure you don’t look casual at the last minute and inadvertently wave off help. An aircraft will dip its wings repeatedly on a low pass to confirm that you have been spotted. A helicopter will usually be able to give you a visual signal from the crew on a low hover. Depending on the circumstances, the helicopter crew may commence rescue immediately or make the decision to send in a ground team. In any event, it’s important that you maintain your signaling to guide the rescuers to your location.

objects: mirrored sunglasses, shiny metal cookware or glass, etc. It isn’t simple to effectively aim a signal mirror so it’s a good thing to practice at home before you need to do it. Pre-made rescue mirrors usually include printed instructions and some kind of aiming tool, like a small hole in the mirror. At night, you can make an effective visual signal by swinging a light rapidly in a circle overhead. A chemical light stick is the best choice for this. Buy the high-luminosity type made for signaling rather than the ones you get at the party store for your kids on Halloween. You can also do this with a flashlight. Tie a rope or string onto the light source and swing it rapidly overhead in a circle, creating a much larger area of light. Pause three times to make three distinct signals. MAKE SOME NOISE

Sound signals like whistles, gun blasts, or even shouting are effective, especially in close proximity or when your location is concealed.

Keep in mind that in mountainous terrain—and especially in canyon lands—echoes will make it much harder to determine the direction of your signal so try not to rely on sound alone. A signal whistle should be part of your outdoor gear and you can find them handily built into a backpack buckle or incorporated into a flashlight handle. It’s a simple and inexpensive item to add to the zipper pull of a coat or a key ring, so go ahead and grab one for a few dollars on your next trip to an outdoor gear store. ADVANCE ADVANCE WORK WORK

All the above signaling strategies assume someone knows to look for you. If this isn’t the case, its going to take a lot more luck to catch the attention of a potential rescuer and make clear that your signal is in fact, a request for help. Make sure you follow sensible practices and advise others of your plan and expected return date. This doesn’t mean sacrificing your secret fishing or hiking spot; just leave a note in your vehicle about your route of travel or destination and tell someone you trust when you are departing and returning. That way, if you are overdue, searchers can determine your likely location and, with your good signaling skills, find you easily. Michael Neiswender is a freelance wrier with a strong interest in all things outdoor- and travel-related.

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ONCE YOU’RE SPOTTED



WILDERNESS


YO Y OU ARE IF YOU’RE LOST IN THE WILD, YOU BETTER KNOW HOW TO USE A COMPASS AND MAP TEXT AND PHOTOS BY TONY BY TONY NESTER

L

ET’S FACE IT: IF YOU’RE IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS AND YOU CAN’T NAVIGATE WITH A HANDHELD COMPASS AND TOPOGRAPHIC MAP, YOU’RE SUNK. The ability to navigate with these tools is a hallmark outdoor skill and can not only help you avoid getting lost, but also locate water sources, road junctions and the best routes to take through challenging terrain.

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THE BIG THREE

There are three areas on which to focus regarding these time-tested navigation tools: using a topographic


without a compass, following a compass bearing without a map and using a map and compass together. Each of these is important to learn and is partly dependent on the terrain and your goals. For instance, if I am in the desert with 90-mile visibility, I may just pull out my topo map and use the easily identified peaks, canyons and mesas to pinpoint my general whereabouts. I do this a lot where I live, as the incredible vistas make triangulating my position relatively easy. If I need to reach an exact location such as a small spring, then I will use the compass in conjunction with my map. However, when I am in the jungle or forest, I always use my map and compass together.

The only time I use my compass by itself is if I am given a set of predetermined bearings to follow. Having a compass dangling around your neck does little good unless you have a topo map to go with it or already have known bearings.

TOPOGRAPHIC MAP Below are what I consider essential identifiers on a topo map. Contour lines: These lines indicated the steepness of flatness of the terrain. Lines that are tightly packed will indicate a steep mountainside, cliff or deep canyon; conversely, contour lines that are widely spaced will be indicative of a relatively flat region, such as a meadow or field. Contour interval: The spacing of those contour lines will give you a feel for the difficulty of a region you may be traversing but keep in mind that each map’s contour lines vary. This information is located in the center margin at the bottom of the topo map. I have some maps that have contour intervals listed as 10,

The anatomy of a baseplate compass: 1) Direction of travel arrow is inscribed on the flat part outside the compass housing. 2) The magnetic north needle is free-floating with one-half red and and the other half being being black. 3) The shed is found inside the housing. 4) The white line on the housing dial with the numbers, is the place where where you read your bearing.

grid north. The third is usually a star, which refers to true north. The latter aligns with Polaris, the North Star, and is totally separate from magnetic north, which is a physical location, 800 miles to the southeast on Baffin Island. MN and TN are the two you will use to adjust for declination. This is the difference between that red magnetic north needle in your compass and true north, which was that geographic spot where all the Danish and British polar explorers were trying to plant their flags. Without adjusting for magnetic declination, a map and compass is useless, and will result in you getting way off course, if not lost. Keep in mind that declination is different for each state (and even within states) and changes slightly each year. The number listed on your map is not going to be accurate if it was from the 1960s. Call the USGS (U.S. Geological Survey) office or look online and make sure you get the current magnetic declination for whatever state you’re visiting.

“HAVING A COMPASS DANGLING AROUND YOUR NECK DOES LITTLE GOOD UNLESS YOU HAVE A TOPO MAP TO GO WITH IT OR ALREADY HAVE PRE-DETERMINED BEARINGS.” 20 and 40 feet. This can make a huge difference when you’re trying to get water from a canyon. A 10-foot drop might be doable, but a 40-foot drop is going to turn into a technical rock climb. Always make sure you take note of the contour interval when you’re poring over your map. Map date: Look for the map’s publication date in the bottom right corner. Many printed topo maps were done in the 1960s, and while the large-scale features (mountains, canyons, rivers) won’t have changed much, the roads, springs and man-made structures will. On one survival course, we did a land navigation exercise to a “water tank” listed on our topo map, knowing it was dated 1956. We trekked cross-country and arrived four miles later at the water source, which turned out to be a rusty steel water tank turned on its side with shotgun holes in it. Always check the publication date and then call the local Forest Service office to get the location of current roads, backcountry water sources and private property. Magnetic Declination Figure: On most maps, this will be a cluster of three arrows pointing north and located in the bottom margin on the left side. One will indicate MN, which is magnetic north; another will indicate GN, which is

COMPASS Now, put aside the topo map for a few minutes as we delve into the anatomy of a compass. Personally, I like the standard baseplate compasses made by Silva or Suunto. I will refer to bearings when I mention the numbers on your compass housing, which means the same as the term “azimuth” if you want to talk military navigation language. On your compass, you will see three arrows. One of these is inscribed on the baseplate, outside of the liquid-filled round housing. The other two arrows are inside the housing. One of these is red and free-floating. The other arrow is drawn and resembles a red shed. Magnetic north is the red arrow. This red arrow can be affected by power lines, iron-ore deposits in the ground, the metal of your vehicle, a metal zipper in your jacket and other external factors in your environment. The shed arrow is used to line up your magnetic north needle with the bearing you dial in on the compass housing. The direction-of-travel arrow is inscribed on the flat exterior of the plate outside of the compass housing. This is used after you have lined up the two interior arrows and


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85

you are going on a four-day backpacking trip; each “X” The manual to have, for should indicate a new campboth beginning and advanced site. Next, draw a line with students, is the classic, Be Expert with a ruler or the edge of your Map and Compass by Bjorn Kjellstrom. In compass, connecting all addition to showing how to triangulate and four spots. shoot back-bearings, this book has numerTo determine the ous field exercises and orienteering chaladjusted bearing from lenges. You can also look into your local point one to point two: gear stores which often have classes Place your compass edge on on both map and compass the line and dial the compass and GPS use. housing until the “N” is at the top and the red lines in the compass housing are parallel with the grid lines on your topo map. It is crucial that the N is always on top so it corresponds with grid north, which as the top of the topo map. Record the bearing on your compass dial and adjust for magnetic declination. Where I live in Arizona, I have to subPlace your compass on the line connecting the two points you will be hiktract 11 degrees to get my adjusted bearing. If you are ing to. Rotate the compass housing so the lines in the compass housing are aligned with the grid lines on the topo map and “N” is at the top. back in the eastern U.S. you may have to add based upon

Then read your bearing and adjust for declination by adding or subtracting (depending on where you live in the US) to arrive at your adjusted bearing.

will point you in the right direction if you’re following a precise bearing. So far, I’ve just talked about the compass layout, so to put it all together, first stand up and plug the compass into your midsection. The bottom plate of the compass should rest squarely in your gut and will not be turned at any point. The compass dial, however, will be turned; you will dial-in a bearing; let’s say 84 degrees. To accomplish this, rotate the numeric dial until the number is lined up on the static white line on the housing. Next, turn your entire body (remember, not the compass) until the red magnetic north needle lines up directly over the red shed drawing. Now look at the direction of travel arrow—that’s the way you need to walk to get to your destination if you have pre-determined bearings. If you want to practice this outside, then use the 53dgree, 171-degree and 289-degree bearings on level ground. This will create a triangle pattern and have you arrive back at your starting point if you have performed all of the above steps correctly. This is based upon my pace count so you may be a few feet short or overstep your starting position, but you should be in line with your point of origin (marked by a water bottle). A pace is where you count every time your right foot touches the ground. Walk five paces for each bearing.

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MAP AND COMPASS Once you’ve got the basics of a topo map and compass down, putting them together can result in a very accurate way of getting around. First, lay out a topo map on a flat surface and mark off four arbitrary spots, spaced a few miles apart. Let’s say


Always Always find find the contour interval for your your topographic topographic map which which is located in the bottom center. This will tell you how steep the terrain features on your map will be and could make all the difference between a leisurely walk or a rugged trek.

Located at the bottom left of a topo map are the figures for grid north (GN), magnetic north (MN), and true north (the star image). The difference between MN and true north will provide you with the declination for that region. Note that this figure indicates 14 1/2 degrees because this map is from 1969. You can obtain the current declination by visiting the USGS.gov site.

YO Y OU ARE

Perform this exercise for the three remaining marks on your map and you will have obtained the adjusted bearings for walking this route.

The tighter the contour lines, the more difficult the terrain will be to negotiate. This crater shows a steep slope on the left and a more gradual slope on the right where the contour lines are spaced further apart.

the information you got from the USGS site for your region. Write the final number down on the line on your map so you have this adjusted bearing visible for when you arrive at the field and plan on walking your proposed route.

JUST JUST DO IT Of course, this has been an academic approach to learning how to use a map and compass. You will have to put all this together while on field exercises to refine your navigation skills. A good way to start is by trying it with a friend over a short distance of a quarter mile. This will enable you to safely build your ability to walk a bearing and overlay what you are seeing on your topo map with the actual landscape. Remember: A GPS unit is no substitute for being able to use a map and compass. Learn the latter approach and you will always be able to find your way around the backcountry. Like all survival skills, land navigation is a perishable ability so practice several times a season or consider participating in an orienteering competition, at the very least, to keep yourself on track in the wilds. Tony Nester is the author of numerous books and DVDs on survival. His school, Ancient Pathways, is the primary provider of survival training for the Military Special Operations community and he has served as a consultant for the NTSB, FAA and the film “Into the Wild.” For more information, visit apathways.com.

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87

WILDERNESS


THE POWER OF

PLANTS THESE TOP FIVE WILD EDIBLES CAN HELP YOU SURVIVE

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If

TEXT AND PHOTOS BY TONY BY TONY NESTER NESTER

YOU’RE BUGGING OUT and happen to have a bunch of prepared food on hand, great. But sooner or later you’re going to have to rely on the land for a food source, so why not start with edible plants? If you delve into the wild edible plants of your region and look at what the indigenous cultures were using for food, you will most likely find that they relied on a core group of a few dozen do zen edible plants. For beginning foragers, I recommend starting with five edible plants from your area that can be incorporated into your daily salads and diet.


IN THE KNOW Knowledge of edible plants can help add to your daily menu in a backcountry outing or an extended grid-down situation in which the grocery shelves are empty. Wild plants can be used to supplement your home pantry and should not be viewed as a means of staving off hunger or surviving long-term. None of our ancestors was vegetarian. I mention this because there is a misconception in the survival field that foraging in the wilds is akin to pushing a shopping cart down the produce aisle of the grocery store. Protein and fat from small and big game, fish, and nuts or acorns are what is required to live off the land. Edible plants will provide the daily dose of vitamins and spice up any meal, but they are supplements, so make sure you plan accordingly.

“BE 110 PERCENT POSITIVE YOU KNOW WHAT YOU ARE PICKING AND PUTTING IN YOUR MOUTH.”

[COUNTERCLOCKWISE, FROM TOP] Cattails are an excellent wild plant to add into daily salads and campfire meals. The leaves can also be used for shelter material and bedding, and they are found in water, water, which presents presents fishing fishing opportunities opportunities as well. well. Yank up a few cattails by weaving weaving your hands down down into the mud and “liberating” the roots. While I was after the succulent stalk in this photo, you can also toss the roots on the coals of the fire and roast them up to provide a starchy treat. These roots were often used as survival survival food during during the lean lean winter winter months by native native cultures throughout throughout North North America. The white white stalk from from the roots, roots, up to to about six inches, is the edible part on a cattail during the months of May to August. This tastes much like cucumber and can be eaten raw, boiled or sauteed in oil.

RESEARCH If you want to delve into what plants were used by native peoples in your particular region, then take some workshops with local foraging experts, native educators or field botanists. In my region of the Southwestern U.S., the Hopi Indians used—out of 150 identified plants in their region—roughly 29 for food and 40 for medicine. And don’t think that you must always venture into the wilderness to obtain such edibles. I can almost guarantee that there are plenty of wild edibles in your backyard and in cities, near and far.

PROCEED WITH CAUTION Whatever you do when it comes to harvesting edible wild plants, be 110 percent positive you know what you are picking and putting in your mouth. Be dead sure you know your plant identification skills—or be dead. Poison hemlock is so deadly

WHAT TO AVOID It’s easier to tell you what not to eat instead of what you can. While these may rule out some edible plants, the following identifiers will help you rule out plants that are most likely poisonous. Avoid anything that smells like almonds. Do not eat berries that are white or orange. Do not eat plants with thorns. Don’t use plants containing beans or plants with seeds inside a pod. Get rid of it if the sap is milky or discolored. If it has shiny leaves, you should avoid it. If a plant has three leaflets like poison ivy, let it be. Mushrooms are a bad choice; even if it looks like something you found in the grocery store it can still be a deadly look-alike. Stay away from plants with umbrella-shaped flowers. Finally, if it tastes bitter or soapy, spit it out.

that just a taste of the leaf can kill you. There is no room for error, so make sure you identify what you are sending down your gullet. I am not a fan of the old military edible plant ID method of putting an unknown leaf or berry in your mouth to sample while waiting to see if it burns or causes convulsions. Spend time with an experienced forager or botanist and make sure you know precisely what you are harvesting before you consume it. Keep in mind that few of us today live on a diet exclusively of wild plants. They are high in fiber and too much at one time will see you sprinting from your tent. Ease yourself into wild edibles and gradually incorporate them into your diet at home and on outdoor excursions. Last, don’t collect plants near roadways, highways, or ditches with runoff. Even if the plants look healthy, they may be contaminated with hydrocarbon emissions or pesticides.


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[CLOCKWISE, FROM TOP LEFT ] The acorn is a true wilderwilderness staple and is a calorie-laden food source found throughout North America. I once lived on on nothing but roasted and raw acorns for five days on a survival course. Burdock has broad leaves and a stout root that can provide some excellent carbs. Dig up the root, wash it off and then bake like a potato in foil or over the campfire coals. Purslane often shows up in disturbed soil such as field and backyards. This is a delicious edible plant, and I regularly mix it 50/50 with salads.

PLAY NICE Be a responsible forager and leave enough for the plants to reseed and recover. “Gather from abundance and leave abundance,” is the saying in the foraging community, as this will leave plenty of resources for future outings and the wildlife in the region. While there are thousands of plants to learn about and utilize

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throughout North America, the following represent some of the more common ones that you are likely to encounter and represent a core group on which to build your foundation.

TOP FIVE WILD EDIBLES Acorns—These are a great source of

protein and you can live on them for days at a time since they provide

both copious amounts of calories and fat. The best acorns come from the white oak family (rounded leaf tips) and are some of the few acorns that are low enough in tannic acids to make them suitable for eating right off the tree. You can de-shell them and grind them up for flour, dried, or roasted on a rock slab.

Burdock

(Arctium spp.)—An excellent food and one of my favorites that has sustained me many times on survival trips. I gather the tubers with a hefty digging stick in the spring and summer. You can chew them raw to extract the juices, but the best way is to boil them up until tender and then peel back the outer rind and eat the soft interior. Burdock tea, also made from the roots, provides a good energy drink if you sweeten it with sugar or honey (unless you like the taste of dirt).

make a protein-rich bread or pancake mix. Cattails also provide shelter and cordage material. Purslane (Portulaca

HANDS-ON For hands-on training, consider taking a class with the Forager’s Path, TheForagersPath.com.

oleracea)—I eat this almost daily in the summer and pick it right off my front woodlot. You can mix in with a regular salad or eat it as is. My favorite is to mix equal parts of ama-

STUDY TIME STUDY TIME Cattails

(Typha spp.)—During the winter months, I collect the roots (rhizomes) and roast them on the fire until they’re charred and then peel back the outer rind and snack on the starchy interior. This is one of my favorite foods on survival outings in the colder months. During the spring, I gather the young shoots and eat them raw or I toss them in with a stew. You can mix the yellow pollen, available for only a few weeks in June, with regular flour to

I highly recommend reading the following books for getting starting with wild foods: • Edible Wild Plants: Eastern/Central North America, America, by Peterson Field Guides • Nature’s Garden: a Guide to Identifying, Harvesting, and Preparing Edible Wild Plants, by Samuel Thayer • Edible and Medicinal Plants of the West, by Gregory Tilford

ranth, purslane and pine nuts, then top with vinaigrette. Common Dandelion

(Taraxacum officinale)—I add the young leaves, which are high in vitamins C and A, to salads. You can also boil and eat the root. Spring and fall leaves tend to be less bitter, as are the broader leaves with fewer indentations. You can cook or stir fry the leaves or simply combine them with other salad ingredients. THE BOTTOM LINE

Again, keep in mind that these are meant to augment, and not replace, your diet of wild game or food supplies at home during a long-term grid-down situation. It’s impossible to be a vegetarian in the wilds so plan on using these as a place for incorporating wild edibles into your daily diet to help provide essential vitamins, anti-oxidants and minerals.

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Buyer’s Guide BLANKETS


COVER UP STARTING AT JUST $.85, YOU CAN GET AN EMERGENCY BLANKET THAT COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE

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IF YOU DON’T HAVE an emergency blanket in your bug-out bag, you’re crazy. If you’re ever stranded in the outdoors you’ll be glad you have your emergency blanket— the metallic surface serves as a way to keep warm and dry and prevent hypothermia and also acts as locator beacon for searchers if you’re lost. Don’t leave home without one. Check out our picks of the best emergency blankets to include in your kit, and make sure you get one sooner than later.

| NAME |

| PRICE |

| MATERIALS |

Mylar Emergency Thermal Blanket Grabber Outdoors Emergency Space Blanket S.O.L. Survival blanket Coghlan's Emergency Blanket MPI All-Weather Emergency Survival Blanket Stansport Polarshield Emergency Blanket Ace Camp Gold/Silver Emergency Blanket Emergency Essentials Emergency Blanket Grisly Gear Mylar Thermal Sleeping Bag ER Emergency Ready Thermal Mylar Blanket Grabber Outdoors All-Weather Blanket Coghlan's Thermal Blanket

$.85-$69 $3.99 $7 $4.99 $21.99 $19.99 $9.99 $2.95 $11.95 $5.99 $15.47 $17.99

insulated mylar vacuum-metalized polyethylene vacuum-metalized polyethylene aluminized, non-stretch polyester metal and plastic films rip-stop polyester insulated mylar insulated mylar metalized laminate insulated mylar radar reflective aluminized polyethylene


BODY HEAT RETENTION

90% 80% 90% N/A 80% 90% 80% 80% 90% 90% 90% N/A

| SIZE | 54x84 inches 56x96 inches 60x96 inches 52x82.5 inches 60x84 inches 84x54 inches 55.2x86.4 inches 84x52 inches 84x36 inches 84x52 inches 60x84 inches 50x79 inches

| WATERPROOF |

| RESUABLE |

Y es Yes Y es Y es Y es Yes Y es Y es Y es Yes Y es Y es

Yes Yes Y es Y es Y es Y es Y es Y es Yes Y es Y es Yes

BLANKETS

Buyer’s Guide

MYLAR

1 $.85-$69

S.O.L.

GRABBER OUTDOORS

3 $7 MYLAR

2 $3.49 GRABBER

S.O.L.

1PRODUCT: Emergency Thermal

2 OUTDOORS

3PRODUCT: Survival Blanket

Blankets WEBSITE: Amazon.com PRICE: $.85-$69

PRODUCT: Emergency SPACE Blanket WEBSITE: GrabberWorld.com PRICE: $3.99

WEBSITE: SurviveOutdoorsLonger.com PRICE: $7

Specifications:

Specifications:

• Light weight • Durable insulation: Mylar material • Retains and reflects 90 percent of body heat • Reusable, waterproof and windproof • 54 x 84 inches

• Reflects and retains 80 percent of radiated body heat • Store in car, camper, boat, or gear bag in case of emergency, or use after marathons or sporting events • Waterproof and windproof • Weighs 3 ounces

• Opens easily and will not sshred hred if nicked or punctured, rips and tears can be repaired • Quiet and won’t crinkle in high winds • High-visibility orange exterior makes it easy for rescuers to find you • Sized to fit 1 to 2 people

Specifications:

Defining Features: Mylar Emergency

Thermal Blankets should be part of any emergency kit. The wallet-sized blankets are compact and lightweight—perfect for storing in your car or emergency kit. Made of durable, insulated, Mylar material, the blankets are guaranteed to keep you warm on those cold nights— this blanket retains and reflects 90 percent of the body’s heat. Even below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, you’ll feel warm, but not overheated.

Defining Features: Although Mylar Defining Features: Use the same super-

insulating material developed for the Apollo Space missions on your next camping trip. At less than $5, Grabber Outdoors Emergency Blanket is an absolute bargain. The OD Green is perfect for hunters, military and police looking to stay warm and blend in with their surroundings. The blanket’s vacuum deposited metal and a polyester film surface ensures you’ll stay dry from the rain and safe from the wind. This compact blanket is perfect for storing in the glove compartment of your car and your emergency kit.

blankets are fine and dandy at keeping you warm, some of them are prone to tearing and shredding. If you’re looking for a durable, long-lasting emergency blanket alternative, try the S.O.L. Survival Blanket. Made of vacuum-metalized polyethylene, this advanced emergency blanket reflects 90 percent of your body heat to keep you warm when it matters most. It includes handy instructions to get the most of your emergency blanket. Not only is it waterproof, the blanket’s windproof, too.

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Buyer’s BLANKETS Guide

MPI OUTDOORS

5 $21.99

STANSPORT

6 $19.99

COGHLAN’S

4 $4.99

“IF IT’S GOOD ENOUGH FOR ASTRONAUTS, IT’S GOOD ENOUGH FOR EVERYONE.”

4

COGHLAN’S

PRODUCT: Emergency Blanket WEBSITE: Coghlans.com PRICE: $4.99

5

MPI OUTDOORS

6

STANSPORT

PRODUCT: All Weather Emergency Survival Blanket WEBSITE: OutdoorPros.com PRICE: $21.99

PRODUCT: Sportsman’s Polarshield Emergency Blanket WEBSITE: StanSport.com PRICE: $19.99

Specifications:

Specifications:

• Measures 60 x 84 inches • Weighs 12 ounces • Available colors: red, blue, dark olive

• Technology developed in the space program to provide maximum warmth with minimum weight • Made from extremely tough polyester rip-stop material • Retains up to 90 percent of body heat • Bright surface can also be used to reflect light for miles • Weighs 10 ounces

Specifications:

• A compact, lightweight blanket • Aluminized, non-stretch polyester • Stays flexible in freezing temperatures • Reflects body heat back to body • Wind and waterproof Defining Features: Coghlan’s Emer-

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gency Blanket is your basic no-frills emergency blanket. At less than $5, it’s good buy for casual campers on a limited budget looking to stay warm on those frigid mid-September nights. This compact and lightweight emergency blanket is made from high-quality aluminized, non-stretch polyester. Some emergency blankets freeze in sub-zero temperatures; this blanket stays flexible even in colder weather. It does a good job of reflecting the heat back to your body, protecting you from the wind and the rain.

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Defining Features: If it’s good enough

for astronauts, it’s good enough for everyone. MPI Outdoors All Weather Blanket is a heavy-duty emergency blanket made from the same superinsulating materials that were developed for the NASA/Apollo Space missions. Choose from three different colors, including blue, dark olive and red. This blanket is made from full edge binding Radar reflective material and is guaranteed to retain up to 90 percent of your radiated body heat to help you stay comfortable and warm.

Defining Features: Stansport Sports-

man’s Polarshield Emergency Blanket is fabricated from super-durable polyester material. There’s no easier way to ruin an emergency blanket than tearing it; this blanket is made of rip-stop material to help avoiding tearing. The same technology developed for outer space is used in this super warm emergency blanket. Use it at the campsite or as an extra blanket on your bed to stay warm at night. This long-lasting blanket is worth its weight in gold; it will pay for itself in two seasons.

BLANKETS

Buyer’s Guide

ACE CAMP

7 $9.99

GRIZZLY GEAR

9 $7.95

EMERGENCY ESSENTIALS

8 $1.75

ACE CAMP

EMERGENCY ESSENTIALS

GRIZZL GRIZZ LY GEAR

7PRODUCT: Gold / Silver Emergency

8

Blanket

PRODUCT: Emergency Blanket

Mylar Thermal Sleeping Bag (2 Pack)

WEBSITE: AceCamp.com PRICE: $9.99

(reflective) WEBSITE: BePrepared.com PRICE: $1.75

WEBSITE: Amazon.com PRICE: $7.95

Specifications:

• Size: 55.2 x 86.4 inches • Weighs 1.4 ounces • Reflects nearly 80 percent of body heat • Waterproof and windproof • Remains elastic below freezing • Small enough to fit into shirt pocket Defining Features: Ace Camp Emer-

gency Blankets may be priced in the middle of the pack, but they offer the same great features as the premium blankets do. These blankets are ideal for the outdoors, allowing you to reflect and retain over 80 percent of your body heat for maximum warmth. The waterproof material will keep you dry from the elements. The blanket is lightweight and compact, perfect for storing in your backpack or the glove compartment of your car.

9PRODUCT: Emergency Survival Specifications:

Specifications:

• Weighs 2.5 ounces • Dimensions: 84 x 55 inches • Lightweight • Waterproof Defining Features: Emergency Essen-

tials Emergency Blanket is a compact, lightweight blanket no emergency kit— or bug-out bag—should be without. Don’t let its price tag fool you; this emergency blanket does an excellent job keeping you warm, maintaining 80 percent of your body heat. Cover yourself from head to toe or cover your entire body for maximum warmth. It gives an all-new meaning to the term compact; it’s so small you can even carry it in your pocket.

• Provides compact emergency protection in all weather conditions. • Made of durable insulating Mylar material designed by NASA for space exploration • Retains and reflects back 90 percent of body heat • Perfect for camping trips and sporting events • Comes with two sleeping bags Defining Features: Why buy just an

emergency blanket when you can get a sleeping bag at the same time? At just under $8, Grizzly Bear Emergency Survival Thermal Sleeping Bag is a two-inone sleeping bag/thermal blanket. This bag does a top-notch job of retaining body heat, retaining and reflecting up to 90 percent of your body heat. Not only is it waterproof and windproof, you can even use it as a shelter during a disaster. It’s perfect for camping, hiking and during those frigid nights. AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE

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Buyer’s BLANKETS Guide GRABBER OUTDOORS

11 $11.62 “WHEN THE SKIES OPEN UP, REST ASSURED YOU’LL BE BONE DRY AND WARM INSIDE YOUR BLANKET.”

ER EMERGENCY READY

10 $5.76

COGHLAN’S

12 $17.99 ER EMERGENCY READY PRODUCT: Thermal Mylar Blankets (Pack of 4) WEBSITE: Amazon.com PRICE: $5.76

GRABBER OUTDOORS PRODUCT: All Weather Blanket WEBSITE: GrabberWorld.com PRICE: $11.62

Specifications:

• Reflects and helps to retain more than 90 percent of radiated body heat • Full wraparound protection for entire body • Windproof and waterproof • Flexible even in sub-freezing temperatures • Reinforced grommet holes on all corners

• Thermal blanket is made of reinforced construction of aluminized polyethylene • Strong, compact, and soil resistant • The blanket retains body heat and reflects heat back to the body • The corners have reinforced grommets and the edges are stitched • The all-purpose thermal blanket is windproof and waterproof

Defining Features: Grabber Outdoors

Defining Features: While the first Cogh-

All Weather blanket is flexible, lightweight, waterproof and windproof. What more could you ask for? It’s the definition of a multipurpose blanket. It works great during the most extremes of weather. During the winter, turn the shiny side up to retain body heat. During the summer, turn the shiny side down to protect yourself from the harmful rays of the sun. When the skies open up, rest assured you’ll be bone dry and warm inside your blanket.

lan’s thermal blanket we looked as was no-frills, this is the cream of the crop. Coghlan’s Thermal Blanket is manufactured from reinforced aluminized polyethylene. This is one of the best-made blankets you’ll ever find—the edges are hand-stitched to make sure the blanket lasts for years to come. Not only is the blanket waterproof and windproof, it’s also soil resistant—a nice benefit most blankets don’t have. If there’s one emergency blanket you don’t want to leave home without, this is it.


• Provides compact emergency protection in all weather conditions by reflecting back and retaining 90 percent of a survival victim’s body heat • Can be used to prevent and counter hypothermia by reducing heat loss from a person’s body • Can be used to cover injured victims in order to help reduce shock • Can be used in a hot environment to provide shade as a shelter barrier • Reusable, waterproof and windproof Defining Features: Why purchase one

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emergency blanket, when you can get four—enough for a family—for the low price of $5.76? This blanket isn’t just great for the outdoors; it comes in handy during natural disasters, including hurricanes and earthquakes. These blankets are multipurpose—use them as blankets, cloaks or even tents, it’s up to you. This is one of the warmer blankets, reflecting 90 percent of your body heat to keep you toasty warm. It’s large enough to fit even the tallest people.


COGHLAN’S PRODUCT: THERMAL Blanket WEBSITE: Coghlans.com PRICE: $17.99

URBAN IN THIS SECTION

TRANSIT TIPS

+

CITY RESOURCES

+

HAM & CB RADIO

+

MORE

SURVIVAL, CITY STYLE Critical Advice For When Things Go South In An Urban Setting WHEN EVERYTHING EVERYTHING hits the fan, many of us would want to bet on what seems like a sure thing. Living in the city, we would hope many of the trials of survival we’d encounter would involve best-case scenarios filled with the world’s greatest comforts, right? Public transportation, hordes of people to pitch in and help out and plentiful amounts of food. But the reality is that when the grid falls, it’s the urban areas that will fall into utter chaos, leaving people stranded without an electricity-driven transportation system and prompting looters to empty out the shelves of the local groceries. When it comes to city survival, you’ll need to be able to communicate if the grid falls. You have to know exactly what to pack into your urban bugout bag at a moment’s notice. Turn the pages for some essential facts that will help you navigate the urban jungle.

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URBAN

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TIPS DON’T GET CAUGHT UNPREPARED WHILE YOU’RE TRAVELING TEXT AND PHOTOS BY TONY BY TONY NESTER

H


AVE YOU THOUGHT ABOUT BEING PREPARED FOR A DISASTER WHEN YOU’RE TRAVELING? MY GUESS? NO. You may have well-thought out plans p lans for handling a grid-down crisis at home or evacuating your city during an urban disaster, complete with bug-out gear, a well-stocked vehicle and contingency plans if the routes are congested. However, when you fly and there are restrictions on the gear you have available, you are thrust into an unfamiliar world where the location of medical resources, water, power supply capabilities and major highways are vague or unknown altogether. I travel a great deal in my work as a survival instructor. For much of my work, I can easily pack up my truck and have enough gear to take care of my needs on the road for a week. But when I fly throughout the U.S. or abroad, all of that changes and I need to modify my bug-out bag drastically to comply with various federal and international restrictions. Having a few critical items and plans in place prior to boarding a plane or heading to another state can provide you with peace of mind and enable you to handle a crisis away from home.

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TRANSIT

TIPS “IF A DISASTER HAPPENS WHILE YOU’RE TRAVELING, THERE ARE NO GUARANTEES THAT YOU WILL BE IN AN AREA WITH AMPLE RESOURCES.” THREE SCENARIOS If a disaster happens while you’re traveling, there are no guarantees you will be in an area with ample resources such as food, water and basic medical supplies. This is where a tailored bug-out bag for travel comes in. It will at least give you a jump on handling simple survival priorities in a city riddled by physical breakdown of critical services.

A carry-on carry-on kit can be stowed in your pockets or daypack. Include items like gloves, water purification tablets, energy gel, firstaid kit, flashlight, N95 mask, duct tape, Wet Wipes, heatsheet reflective blanket and an Ankers portable portable powerpack.

1. Plane, Train, Bus or Terminal It’s doubtful you will be thrust into a plane ride and survival ordeal, but it’s happened before that mechanical failure, inclement weather or a regional disaster grounds transportation for days. That leaves you stuck at the terminal with little more than your carryon. If you travel enough, you will experience such an event and it will forever shape your future travel gear. Having a small bug-out kit can make a huge difference in your ability to adapt to a difficult setting.

2. At 2. At a Hotel Hotel A good friend of mine was stuck at a hotel in the U.K. near the airport for days after the volcanic eruption in Iceland shut down air traffic and stranded thousands of travelers. He said that while food and water weren’t an issue, the prices rose overnight on all consumables, jumping sky high for food as some hotels began gouging flyers. Many people began living off of vending machines or bartering food supplies with other travelers. Your hotel will become your bug-in setting setting during a disaster. You can easily travel with no-cook foods, water and sanitation supplies that won’t cost much but can give you an edge during a crisis. 3. On the Road You’ve left the hotel for a few hours and are at a business meeting or visiting another section of the city when disaster strikes. Your car and its well-planned contents becomes a rolling survival kit if you are cut off from your hotel. Again, a few key items stowed in your rental car will provide another layer of selfreliance. Make sure your bug-out bag goes with you on all car trips.

PRE-TRIP TIPS From years of being a wilderness guide, I am in the habit of identifying the location of the nearest hospital or walk-in clinic in relation to my lodging when I travel. I also look over the egress routes out of the city and

THE GOODS I like having a small U.S. Palm or 5.11 daypack with me on trips. These are built for rough use and are in the 2,500- to 3,000-cubic-inch range, allowing me to store them snugly under my seat. In this daypack, I carry my laptop, shemagh, rain jacket and extra food and clothes. I keep these items apart from the small bug-out bag I carry, which consists of an Eagle Creek Guide Trek Shoulder Bag and which I keep within reach at the top of my pack. When I am out and about in the city or any time I am away from my hotel, it’s with me—no exceptions. In that, I carry Potable Aqua chlorine dioxide water purification tablets, two N95 dust masks, leather gloves, a space blanket, mini-roll of duct tape, wet wipes, cellphone charger, universal power adapter, one-person first-aid kit, spare prescription glasses, and three Myoplex meal replacement bars. I can’t carry a knife for obvious reasons, but I do keep one in my checked luggage, which has never presented a problem.

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make note of the secondary highways. I do this with handheld maps and plot it out on a GPS ahead of time. I also like to orient myself using Google Earth, so I know the placement of the hotel and hospital in relation to the airport, hotel and the general area I am planning to visit. I often do this while waiting in the airport terminal prior to boarding. For international travel, I will mark the location and address of the embassy or consulate as well. You should transfer any of the contingency thinking and psychological preparation you already have in place for bugging out of your own home to the city or country you are visiting. This takes little time and will add to your peace of mind when arriving at your destination.

PORTABLE

POWER

The Ankers Portable Powerpack Unit: it runs around $50 and will hold up to 300-plus charges during its lifespan. You can use it to recharge smartphones and eReaders and provide partial charges for laptops and tablets.

EXTENDED TRIPS If I am traveling internationally or within the U.S. for extended periods, I also add in prescription items. My family doctor knows that I travel to remote areas to teach survival courses and has provided these items in case of a potential medical crisis. This is a conversation you will want to have with your primary care provider if you are headed to a remote location. Vicodin comes comes in handy if you wrench wrench your back or bust a tibia and are two days from the nearest clinic. A broad-spectrum antibiotic can handle most serious gut ailments, traveler’s diarrhea or infections. Just make sure they’ll treat bacteria common in the part of the world you’re visiting. Keep in mind you should only pack medicine you have the experience and knowledge to employ safely. POST ARRIVAL When you disembark a plane or train, you already have a bug-out kit that will take care of a portion of your survival priorities. You need to make a quick stop at a big-box or grocery store to cover the rest of your needs. Depending on the length of your trip, time of year and geographic location, you may want to flesh this list out far more than what I have here but this is a place to start for augmenting your existing gear.

Get three 1-liter bottles to both stay hydrated and purify water using the Sodis Method. Visit www.sodis.ch www.sodis.ch and see for yourself how this low-tech method works using clear plastic bottles and UV rays. It’s an excellent technique to file away between your ears. Make sure you buy a small tube of sunscreen; according to the latest research, SPF 30 is all you need. Don’t forget a couple of Bic lighters; one of anything critical is a weak set-up so I pick up two and then leave them behind when I fly home. You should have three days’ worth worth of nocook foods. Purchase some packets of tuna, jerky or freeze-dried meals. I also also add in bouillon cubes, which are a great additive to hot water for making a quick broth on cold days and it helps with replacing lost sodium. If you are a fan of MREs then, by all means, bring some along. You want to strive for roughly 2,000 calories a day. Yes, you can live on survival rations averaging 1,000 calories a day, as the packages indicate, but that’s a road to mental anarchy. Survival is hard enough, so don’t skimp on quality food when you assemble a bug-out bag.

TRAVEL SAFE Maybe there isn’t really such a thing as safe travel any more, but if you’re prepared and you pack the right things, you can surely get an edge on surviving any serious disasters that happen during transit. Tony Nester is the author of numerous books and DVDs on survival. His school, Ancient Pathways, is the primary provider of survival training for the Military Special Operations community and he has served as a consultant for the NTSB, FAA and the film Into the Wild. For more information, visit APathways.com.

Two portable power packs to consider are either the Joos Solar Power Charger or the Goal Zero Switch 8. These are compact devices that can be carried in your luggage and used to recharge your smartphone or provide a partial charge to a tablet. I have used both of these products extensively on long road trips in remote regions and have found them to be reliable. They work best when pre-charged the night before departing. If you go with the Goal Zero product make sure to get the solar panel, which is sold separately. The Joos product has an integrated solar panel and it can also be charged via a computer’s USB, as can the Switch 8. Recently, I have had great success using the Ankers Rechargeable Power Pack for keeping my smartphones charged when on the run during long workdays abroad. These come in several different output ranges and are extremely compact. Many friends who are travelers have also recommended the Mophie portable power pack devices, which are sold at Verizon stores.

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URBAN

RESOURCE REVIEW KNOW WHEN TO TRUST YOUR CITY RESOURCES—AND WHEN TO TAKE MATTERS INTO YOUR OWN HANDS BY GARRETT KIM

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E

VERYDAY CITY LIFE IS STRESSFUL STRESSFUL ENOUGH, BUT BUT WITH AN INCREASING RISK OF CONTAMINANTS IN THE AIR AND WATER, IS IT REALLY SAFE TO TRUST THE CITY’S RESOURCES? This is the decision you’ll need to weigh the next time you rely on the water from your sink or the air pumping through your vents. Use the following information to help you make a decision about when to trust the town’s public utilities, and when to take matters into your own hands.

BEWARE BACTERIA

The next time you fill your water glass and prepare to hydrate yourself, keep in mind that the clear water might have invisible contaminants running throughout it. What is in your water will depend on the water’s source. “The most commonly found contaminant in untreated residential well water is bacteria,” says Don Lilley, president and CEO of EWaterTest.com. “We routinely find that about three to four out of ten residential wells have bacteria present.” The bacteria is generally systemic in nature, Lilley adds, which enters the system through a breach, as opposed to the actual water source (water aquifer) being contaminated, although sometimes the aquifer itself

is contaminated by surface water intrusion. “The most commonly found contaminants in public water systems are several volatile organic compounds (VOCs),” says Lilley. “These are generally referred to as trihalomethanes or total trihalomethanes. Trihalomethanes are a group of chemicals consisting of four different organic compounds (Chloroform, bromoform, bromodichloromethane, modichloromethane, dibromochloromethane),” mochloromethane),” Lilley says. “These compounds are created when chlorine-based disinfection materials come into contact with microscopic organic matter found in the distribution systems of most public water supplies.” Take heart, however. You can get rid of these contaminants on your own.

“INDOOR HOME ENVIRONMENTS HAVE NO GOVERNMENT REGULATED LEVELS—WORKPLACE ENVIRONMENTS DO.”

IS BOTTLED WATER SAFE?


Whereas the EPA regulates tap water, the Food and Drug Administration oversees bottled water, since it’s a commodity sold to the public. A report by the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) found that 22 percent of the bottled water the NRDC tested included chemical conta-

minants that exceeded state health limits, meaning the bottled water would not have passed the testing that public water undergoes. However, the NRDC also found that 25 percent or more of bottled water is actually just tap water that the companies bottled independently, then

sold at an extreme markup. You should always check the labels of the bottled water you’re giving to your family, and you might consider testing the brands you buy most often to ensure it’s just as safe (or more so) as your tap water. Source: NRDC.org

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RESOURCE REVIEW “They can be filtered out at the POE (point of entry) to a residential dwelling by using any of the many household filtering systems available, like Brita or Pur carbon filters, for instance,” Lilley says.

RUN YOUR OWN TESTS Whether you have your own well or you’re drinking water from the city’s reservoir, you should invest in a water test kit. “The benefits of testing either a private system and/or public water supply are the same,” says Lilley. “Knowledge of the basic water make-up and the ability to determine if any treatment is necessary to protect the health of its users. It’s just a matter of who is actually responsible to perform the testing. Obviously, the private well owner would be responsible for his own testing, as compared to a public system that is tested by the local water company and/or the municipal authority.” If the municipal entity does find issues with your water, they are legally required to alert you, Lilley says.

CHANGE IS GOOD Not only do the filters in your home’s air vents remove contaminants and allergens, but they help the air flow properly by ensuring your vents aren’t filled with dust. Change them quarterly to ensure you aren’t breathing any dangerous particles.

It’s important to change your air filters frequently so they can continue to get bacteria out of the air that you breathe.


ABOVE, TOP] Water tes ting kits can help y ou [ ABOVE, determine how many contaminants are in your drinking source. ABOVE, BOTTOM] Water filte ring pitc hers ca n [ ABOVE, remove contaminants that are often picked up as city water moves through your pipes.

“After passage of the Safe Drinking Water Act in 1974 (and subsequent later amendments) by Congress, it became mandatory for all public water systems to do at least two things: One was to do routine testing and the second was to notify customers of the results. “Part of that notification process includes publishing a yearly report, generally called the Annual Drinking Water Report, which will notify customers of the testing results and any violations that may have occurred during the year. If serious violations take place that cannot wait for an annual report, then customers are notified by various news media outlets, mail, or telephone,” Lilley says.

IN THE AIR When it comes to testing the air you breathe, you should know exactly what you’re pulling into your lungs, since not everything traveling through your vents is safe. The most common contaminants found in the air of homes are volatile organic compounds, according to Simon Hahessy, scientific director at AirMD.com. VOCs can have have long and short-term health effects, and include vapors from paint, lacquer, cleaning supplies, and other dangerous chemicals. While home test kits can be useful for determining determining your air qual K C O T S K N I H T Y B O T O H P

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KEEP WATER FRESH


Whether you’ve got a water filter right on your faucet, in a pitcher, or on your refrigerator’s water and ice dispenser, it won’t last forever. Filters can only remove contaminants if they’re fresh, so be sure to change yours as often as the manufacturer advises.

ity, they aren’t yet as evolved as water testing kits have become. “Home test kits vary greatly with the majority using poor science, producing limited information,” Hahessy tells American Survival Guide. “Also, home test kits are usually less sensitive to the tests completed by consultants. It all depends on the test kit purchased.” Getting the testing is of vital importance, however, since the government is not as vigilant about testing your home’s air as it is about the water. “Indoor home environments environments have no government-regulated levels; workplace environments do,” Hahessy says. “The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other governmental agencies have guideline levels, but people are responsible for themselves. Outdoors, the government has standards for particulate levels PM2.5 and PM10 and they hold municipalities municipalities accountable for the quality of air.”

THE BOTTOM LINE When all is said and done, you should take responsibility for ensuring that the air and water in your home are safe by testing them yourself. Why take chances on something so important to your overall health?

FOR MORE INFORMATION For more tips from Don Lilley and to find out how to buy water tests, visit E-WaterTest.com. To get more information about how AirMD can test your home for contaminants, visit AirMd.com.

URBAN

S N O M M O C A I D E M I K I W F O Y S E T R U O C O T O H P

RADIO ACTIVE P ICTURE THIS: A DISASTER STRIKES YOUR CITY, TEARING DOWN DOWN THE ENTIRE INFRASTRUCTURE THAT ALLOWS YOU TO COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR LOVED ONES. No phone, no email, no texting. Would you be able to stay in touch with your family and friends in a situation like this? Most people won’t have that ability—but you can, if you learn a few simple tips. Check out the following advice from Don Butler, publisher of HamUniverse.com, to get a handle on how you’ll communicate if the grid falls.

CHOOSE WHICH TYPE OF RADIO YOU NEED TO KEEP IN CONTACT IF THE GRID FALLS BY GARRETT KIM

HAM VERSUS CB

If the grid is disabled, agencies like 911, fire, police and other first responders may no longer be in operation. In a dire situation like this, how will you communicate with your loved ones? With CB and ham being your main options, you should evaluate the pros and cons of each. “When comparing CB radio versus ham radio, ham radio wins in every situation,” Butler says. “Ham radio is not ‘plug and play’—it is a very technical ‘hobby’—but don’t let that scare you away.”


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POWER A HAM RADIO? RADIO? If the grid falls, you haven’t just lost the ability to use the phone—you’ve also lost your electricity in most cases. But you can still use a ham radio without power if you know a few simple tricks, Butler says. Although batteries will work, keep in mind that batteries eventually die. “To get your station back on the air, you must have a means to either recharge them or have backups already charged,” Butler advises. “Having a dead backup battery without a method of recharging means you have a dead ham station unless you have another source to charge the batteries or power your station. Most prudent ham radio operators have backups for the backup and backups for backups.” “Hams have the ability and training gained over the years to use any source that will produce the required electricity to operate a ham station, whether it is a simple station or more powerful one,” he says. “The sources that can be used to charge batteries such as solar, wind, water, oil, petroleum, gasoline, etc., are used on a routine basis by many hams. Solar power is used by a lot by hams living out in remote desert areas. It can also be noted that most of the modern day ham radios use standard DC power, like that coming from a car battery.” BACKUP

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If you have a large ham radio, external antenna and battery or other power source, you can talk to people around the world for hours, days, even weeks, depending on how you design your station. “Hams have a saying, ‘when all else fails, ham radio works,’” Butler says. “In a true, life-saving emergency, any form of radio communications equipment can be used by anyone at any time on any frequency,” he adds. “It must be a true life-and-death situation though and they must have a basic understanding of how to operate the radio.”

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the average CB’er, use the aluminum gutters on your home as an antenna that will be effective? Most hams can. We have the technical training, equipment and experience to get a radio station going out in the middle of nowhere.” In addition, CBs often have people talking over one another, making it difficult to hear what any given person is trying to say. But by using a battery-powered ham radio walkie talkie, you can enjoy a range of 100 miles or more and even relay your signals off of orbiting ham radio satellites depending on the technology used, Butler says. K C O T S K N I H T Y B O T O H P

Once you start communicating on the airwaves, airwaves, you’ll find dozens of other users who can find you on your frequency.

Because standard CB frequencies are limited to 40 channels on the 11 meter band and the average legal CB transceiver sold is limited to 4 watts of output to an antenna by FCC regulations, they are inherently very short range devices and subject to interference from local and distant noise sources, Butler says. “Most people using a CB radio do not know that there are FCC rules that must be followed,” Butler says. “When the grid goes down, there will most likely be chaos on the CB band due to lack of any effective communications technique, training or background in communications effectiveness.” Ham radio, however, is different. “As far as the rules and regulations are considered, they are 1,000 times or more stringent and specific than CB,” Butler says. “Ham radio is an ‘ordered and structured’ communications method when communicating either locally or around the world in normal times.” Therefore, during emergencies, ham radio operation is much more efficient in transferring information and the technology available to hams is far beyond CB, Butler says. “Hams have the knowledge to set up an effective station under some of the most extreme situations you can think of,” he says. “Could you make a set of old bed springs into an antenna? Can you, as

LICENSING Before you get ramped up on ham radio use, you have to earn a license from the FCC, which is required unless you’re using the radio in a life-saving emergency situation. You can’t simply buy a license or take an online test to get one, Butler says. “To get the license requires study and knowledge of certain rules, regulations, radio theory, operating procedures and some basic electronics and other things related to using the ham bands, Butler says. In addition, you must pass a written exam and be issued a call sign by the FCC, much like your local AM/FM radio and TV stations.” The license is actually free, but you must first pass the exam and pay the examiners a small fee for administering the test, typically in the $15 range, Butler reports. “There are three stages or license ‘classes,’ Butler says. “The first ham license you earn gets you to the door of ham radio, much like a learner’s permit, the other two stages get you inside the door where you have many more privileges and opportunities as you advance.” You don’t need to know Morse code to get a ham license, although some ham users do practice it.

IT WORKS FOR NASA When NASA’s onboard communication systems fail, the agency uses ham radio as a backup way to talk to one another, Butler says. “Most of the NASA space station crew are licensed hams,” he says. “They enjoy their ‘off time’ orbiting the earth talking on the on-board ham station installed in the ISS to hams back on the earth. They even transmit pictures that the public without a ham license never sees.”

Knowledge of Morse code is not required to use a ham radio, although many enthusiasts still know it and use it.

“WHEN COMPARING CB RADIO VERSUS HAM RADIO, HAM RADIO WINS IN EVERY SITUATION.”

MORE THAN A HOBBY


Depending on the antenna you use, you can transmit a signal with a ham radio further than many other radio devices.

Ham radio users may refer to their expertise as a “hobby,” but the reality is that even the federal government refers to it as a “service.” “Hams are people from all walks of life,” Butler says. “You don’t have to be an electronics whiz kid or have a Ph.D. to enjoy ham radio; we even have licensed hams younger than eight years old. [We hope we] won’t have a national or even local emergency that shuts down the grid, but if we do, ham radio will be there.”

“Licensed hams can transmit voice, Morse code, data (texting) using computers connected to their ham equipment, still pictures, and live TV in color,” says Butler. “We use less power than it takes to operate most night lights to communicate hundreds or thousands of miles across the Earth even though we are authorized up to 1,500 watts.”

COMMUNICATE Once you get your license, it’s time to find other people who can communicate with you over the ham airwaves, which shouldn’t be difficult based on the ever-growing network of users. “In the U.S. right now, there are about 700,000-plus licensed hams who monitor the many frequencies and ham bands that we are authorized to transmit,” Butler says. “We simply pick a frequency with our transceiver (transmitter/receiver), (transmitter/receiver), make a random transmission using our call sign calling for anyone listening on a non-busy frequency, and hopefully some other ham listening on that frequency will hear us and call us using our call sign and his so we can identify him, and we then carry on our communication.” Ham radio users aren’t restricted to the U.S. “There are ham radio stations around the world and about three million licensed hams worldwide in other countries,” Butler says. “Many commercial airlines have communications equipment that can operate on the ham bands and many pilots are licensed hams also.” In addition, storm spotters trained by the National Weather Service report weather conditions via ham radio, often with life-saving information that radar cannot detect.

FOR MORE INFORMATION For more information about ham radio use, as well as tips on how to ensure that you successfully learn everything you need to know about this communication method, visit HamUniverse.com.

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URBAN

SUPPLY CENTRAL NITRO-PAK CAN PROVIDE THE GOODS TO HELP YOU WEATHER THE STORM BY MICHAEL D’ANGONA

D

ISASTER CAN STRIKE WITHOUT WARNING; THAT’S A FACT. When you are caught off guard and unprepared, serious lifechanging scenarios can become deadly. Those who have planned ahead, however, will have a significant edge over those that ignored the writing on the wall. This edge could mean the difference between life and death when food starts to run scarce, clean drinkable water becomes hard to find and daily necessary supplies have vanished. NOW, NOT LATER

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Don’t wait for an emergency to happen before you prepare. More often than not, people act “after the fact” instead of being proactive. The mentality of “locking the barn door after the horse has escaped” can cause loss of life to you or a loved family member when the unknown hits. You can give yourself yourself and your family family a fighting chance chance when faced with doom and gloom. Lucky for you, there is a preparedness center where you can stock up on just about every item you could possibly need. The company is called Nitro-pak, Inc. and it can help you gather everything you require to not only feed your family, provide shelter, and keep warm by a fire, but to also lay the foundation for longterm survival when you have to hunker down and attempt to outlast whatever situation comes your way.


BIG FOUR Where do you start? Every journey begins with the first step, and your first step should be to gather these essentials.

1

Executive Bug-Out Bag —This could very well be your most essential survival item. Contained within this backpack is everything everything you will need to survive the first 72 hours of any catastrophe. All the basics are covered, including food, water, shelter, first-aid, heat, sanitation and communication. Weighing in at just less than than 20 pounds, anyone anyone can easily carry this bag. It’s full of necessities yet is compact enough to fit in your car, truck, boat or closet with ease. Once danger strikes, gather your family, grab these bags and get out of harm’s way.

4 aid kit provides the perfect balance

Knucklemender Knucklemender First Aid Kit —This first-

between providing an extensive variety of needed supplies and ensuring it’s small enough to fit in your bug-out bag, glove box Easy Meal Security-Pak Food Reserve — or supply bag. It contains everything you Hunger can hit fast and hard after a disasneed if and when more minor injuries occur ter strikes. Grocery stores could be wiped when you’re on the move and professional out and you could find yourself far away from medical attention is not an option. From antiyour kitchen’s pantry. This Easy Meal Security biotic cream to bandages, to insect bite relief to stomach and pain relief tablets, you’re Pack can feed one person for 45 days or a family of three for 15 days, providing covered. First-aid items are taken for a full 1,740 calories per person. granted during peaceful times, All the entrees, vegetables yet they become much sought and eggs are freeze-dried after whenever disaster DID YOU KNOW? and pre-cooked, which strikes. Be prepared and makes preparation a be ready with this fully Nitro-Pak fully tests each and every breeze. Just add hot equipped kit. item for taste, quality and durability. It is water (cold water works the only wholesale dealer that carries the MORE IS BETTER in a pinch) and in less four leading long-term food storage comthan 10 minutes you and Aside from these “Big panies’ lines: Mountain House, Backyour family will be eating a 4” survival necessities, packer’s Pantry, Alpine Aire Gourmet nutritious meal no matter there are plenty of other Reserves and Rocky Mountain what situation you may find emergency items you may Food Reserves. yourself in. want to include to personalize your supplies depending upon Nitro-Pak Tactical Surgical and your own particular needs. Living Suture Kit—Before, during and after a nearby a lake or an ocean, up in the moundisaster, danger and chance of injury is nearly tains, or in the dry heat of the desert, your everywhere. everywhere. Twisted pieces of metal, fallen needs will vary due to your own local environment. Decide what you and your family need trees, broken piping; all these things can produce nasty cuts and gashes, and without and start stockpiling now. Be prepared, medical attention these injuries can become worry less and enjoy life more.

2

K A P O R T I N F O Y S E T R U O C O T O H P

life threatening. Without professionals available during an emergency situation, you can take action into your own hands with the Tactical Surgical & Suture Kit. All sutures and components in the kit are fresh-dated, hospital-grade items. A sampling of its contents includes a scalpel handle and scalpel blades, needle holder hemostat, surgical probe, operating scissors, suture lip scissors, pointed forceps, wound closure strips, antiseptic wipes alcohol pads and much more. The kit’s tri-fold case packs away and stores with ease.

3

ALL ABOUT TIMING Harry Weyandt and his wife, Vickie, have perfect timing. With all the unrest in our country— not to mention the threats of natural disaster—people are becoming more aware of preparedness and looking to get themselves ready for whatever comes. The Weyandts began their business in an empty bedroom of their home and quickly needed to move to a bigger space due to brisk business. Within 18 months of moving, they had to move a few times to accommodate business, finally landing in their current 44,000-square-foot Utah location. Weyandt has been featured on CNN and numerous radio and television shows, talking about what we all agree on: the necessity of prepping.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Online: Nitro-Pak.com Phone: (800) 866-4876.

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GLOVES

HANDSDOWN WINNERS CHOOSE FROM AN ARRAY OF TACTICAL GLOVES THAT WILL SERVE YOU WELL IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS

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IT’S A GIVEN that if you’re in a bug-out situation, you’ll eventually have to hunt for small game. And there is always the possibility of having to defend yourself against wannabe raiders, so chances are if you’re serious prepper, you will own a gun and/or a bow. Whether you’re a skilled marksman or a casual shooter, you’ll want to invest in some decent shooting gloves. In addition to enhancing your firing abilities, they will also come in mighty handy in a wide range of other activities, like keeping your hands protected. Here is our pick of the best shooting gloves to bring on your next hunting excursion in the great outdoors.

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e d i u G s ’ r e y u B PHOTO BY THINKSTOCK


GLOVES

Buyer’s Guide

MAJOR SURPLUS & SURVIVAL

2 $19.95

5.11 TACTICAL

VOODOO TACTICAL

1 $27.99

5.11 TACTICAL

3 $19.99

MAJOR SURPLUS

VOODOO

1PRODUCT: Station Grip Gloves

SU RVIVAL AL 2& SURVIV

WEBSITE: 511Tactical.com PRICE: $27.99

PRODUCT: Black Widow Mechanics

PRODUCT: “The Edge” Shooter’s

Gloves

Gloves

Specifications:

WEBSITE: MajorSurplus.com PRICE: $19.95

WEBSITE: VoodooTactical.com PRICE: $19.99

Specifications:

Specifications:

• Hook-‘n’-loop wrist tab • One size fits most • Weight: .19 pounds

• Leather • Tight wrist offers optimum shooting dexterity • Added leather tab assists in pull on • Slightly padded palm area for added gripping power and comfort

• Rough and rugged chore gloves • Combines flash-and-slash protection with superior dexterity • Four-way stretch back panel • Elasticized wrist keeps out moisture and debris • Padded knuckle protection • Reinforced palm and fingers Defining Features: If you’re looking

for top-notch gloves for shooting, look no further than 5.11 Station Grip Gloves. 5.11 Station Grip Gloves are your gloves of choice for rifle shooting (although they’re a little on the bulky side for pistols). These gloves are especially handy if you enjoy shooting in sub-zero temperatures, as they’ll keep your hands warm as toast. Heavy-duty leather reinforcements at the palm and fingers ensure these gloves will last for the years to come.

Defining Features: When it comes to

shooting gloves, you shouldn’t have to sacrifice quality for comfort. Black Widow gloves are fabricated from high-performance material with the highest attention to detail to provide the very best in comfort, style and function. These gloves feature a convenient hook-‘n’-loop wrist tab for simple entry and fit snuggly around your hands. Finger side-vent holes provide the utmost in breathability on those hot, humid days. They’re machinewashable and they won’t shrink or harden in the wash.

3TACTICAL

Defining Features: Voodoo Tactical’s

The “Edge” Shooter’s Gloves are made to last. Fabricated from high-quality leather, these gloves don’t just look good, they perform well, too. You don’t need to sacrifice look for functionality; these gloves feature tight wrists for the utmost in shooting dexterity so you always hit your target. These gloves fit like a glove—literally; added leather tabs make putting on them on a breeze. The palms are ever so slightly padded to add muchneeded gripping power and comfort. AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE

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Buyer’s GLOVES Guide

4

HATCH PRODUCT: Specialist All-Weather

Shooting Gloves WEBSITE: Hatch-Corp.com PRICE: $9-$48.25

5

MECHANIX WEAR

PRODUCT: Original Glove, Covert WEBSITE: Mechanix.com PRICE: $24.95


• Neoprene • Synthetic leather Synsi-feel palms • Toughtek non-slip material on fingertips (except index) and palm strategically placed for handgun use • Neoprene back • Velcro closure ensures a snug fit

• Available in nine cool colors and sizes to fit most hands • Lycra panels between fingers for added comfort and mobility • Dual-layered finger tips for increased protection and reduced wear • Ultra-thin TPR strap with hook and loop closure provides comfort and adjustability

6

RAPDOM TACTICAL

PRODUCT: All Weather Shooting

Gloves WEBSITE: RapidDominance.com PRICE: $15.47-$18 Specifications:

• Flexible, 2mm neoprene on the backside of the glove • Palm made of Sensifil Material • Grip patches are sewn onto the palm and all finger tips except the index finger • Hook-’n’-loop closure for secure fit

Defining Features: The Specialist

Neoprene Gloves are popular shooting gloves with shooting enthusiasts for good reason. These gloves work great with larger guns or handguns. They’ll give you a firm grip when you need it most, when you’re drawing your gun out of its holster. Load clips with ease without the annoyance of removing your gloves. All-weather means they’re perfect for all climates–whether you’re in the desert in Nebraska or the forest in Wyoming, your hands will feel comfortable.

Defining Features: If you’re looking

Defining Features: Rapdom Tactical

for an inexpensive glove good for the occasional shoot excursion, the MG55-010 should fit the bill. These gloves offer great dexterity—you can accomplish all your outdoor tasks without the inconvenience of removing them. Lag Lycra panels between fingers ensure the utmost in comfort. These are all-purpose gloves–they work in a variety of climates and for a host of activities.

shooting gloves are called “all weather” for a good reason. Not only are these gloves breathable, they’re waterproof, but without the bulkiness of similar gloves. The gloves fit snugly, while leaving your hands enough room to move. The Sensifil palm and fingers ensure you’re able to easily grip your firearm when it matters most. The back of the glove is fabricated from 2 mm of neoprene, giving you more comfort and protection than the typical 1.5mm glove.

RAPDOM TACTICAL

$15.47-$18 6

HATCH

4 $9-$48.25 4 1 0 2

MECHANIX WEAR

5 $24.95

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GLOVES

Buyer’s Guide

HATCH

8 $13-$50.81

5.11 TACTICAL

9 $74.99

BLACKHAWK!

7 $25.99-$41.87 $25.99-$41.87

BLACKHAWK!

HATCH

5.11

7 PRODUCT: Men’s Hot Ops Venti-

8 PRODUCT: SG500 Shooting

9 TACTICAL

lated Hot Weather Gloves WEBSITE: Blackhawk.com PRICE: $25.99-$41.87

Glove WEBSITE: Hatch-Corp.com PRICE: $13-$50.81

PRODUCT: Hard Time Gloves WEBSITE: 511Tactical.com PRICE: $74.99

Specifications:

Specifications:

Specifications:

• Protection and enhanced grip • Ventilation for warm-weather use • Ergonomic cut • Flexible shell for maximum dexterity

• Lightweight, comfortable • Designed for use in SWAT and tactical operations • 9-ounce Kevlar interlock fabric construction • Form-fitting design and thin • Durable leather palm provides excellent tactility, dexterity and grip

• High-performance, hard-knuckle gloves • Articulated thermoplastic knuckle plates • TPR outer laminate • Tactical touch precision fingertips • Seamless goatskin palm

Defining Features: BLACKHAWK!

Black Hot Ops ventilated hot weather glove may be made for humid weather, but they are perfectly fine in colder weather, as well. They fit tight enough to let you keep your finger dexterity, but still have enough space to remain comfortable. They stretch just enough for you to open and close your hand with relative ease. They are designed ergonomically and made of a perforated neoprene and breathable, 3-D, mesh back for enhanced breathability.

“SNAGGING CAN BE A MAJOR PAIN WHEN IT COMES TO GLOVES, BUT THESE DON’T SNAG AT ALL. ”

Defining Features: Used by law Defining Features: SG500 are excel-

lent multi-purpose shooting gloves. They work great for a variety of activities including shooting, mountain biking, fires, dealing with sharp tools, and more. They fit snug and do not slip, thanks to their form-fitting design. They’re lightweight and comfortable, made of very thin leather, perfect for taking on and off in an instant. They feature durable leather palms to ensure you’ll always have a firm grip of your weapon du jour. Your hands will feel at ease as you hit your target with ease.

enforcement officers and tactical operators, these gloves fit snugly and feature two hardened thermoplastic plates, interior padding and a TPR outer laminate. Not only do they keep your hands warm in colder climates, they breathe well in hot and humid weather. Snagging can be a major pain when it comes to gloves, but these don’t snag at all. Dexterity isn’t an issue, either–you should have no problem picking a safety pin off the ground.

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Buyer’s GLOVES Guide

BOB ALLEN

NEET

PRODUCT: Black Deluxe

PRODUCT: Suede Shooting

PRIMOS HUNTING CALLS

Shooting Gloves WEBSITE: BoytHarness.com PRICE: $19.49-$38.69

Glove WEBSITE: NeetArcheryProducts.com PRICE: $8.89-$22.81

PRODUCT: Stretch-Fit Gloves WEBSITE: Primos.com PRICE: $12.91

Specifications:

Specifications:

Specifications:

• Synthetic leather back • Leather palm • Hook-’n’-loop wrist closure • Large back ventilation port • Perforated fingers with articulated knuckles

• Hook-’n’-loop wrist strap • Ambidextrous • Smooth release

• Extended cuff • Call pocket on the back of the hand • Wicks moisture away from skin • Can be used as a glove liner

Defining Features: These aren’t your

Defining Features: If you’re looking

for no-frills shooting gloves without the fancy logo, the Bob Allen Black Deluxe Shooting Gloves are a great choice. These gloves are solidly put together; they’re made of synthetic— yet breathable—leather that can withstand all the punishment you can dish out and then some. Hook-’n’-loop wrist closures mean the gloves will stay on; there’s even a sizable back ventilation port for breathability. These gloves are highly flexible, the perforated fingers make gripping your firearm of choice a breeze.

run-of-the-mill shooting gloves. Neet suede shooting gloves are made especially for archers who prefer a finger release instead of a mechanical trigger. These gloves fit tightly, ensuring you’re on target every time. These gloves roll protection, sensitivity, and a smooth release, all in one solid glove. Made to last, they’re fabricated from soft suede, including smoothgrain leather tips. Hook-’n’-loop straps mean the gloves will stay on at the most crucial of times.

Defining Features: It isn’t by accident

Primos called these gloves “StretchFit.” These lightweight gloves keep your hands nice and toasty, while still remaining breathable. There’s no need to waste time trying on different sizes— one size fits most shooters. These aren’t your typical shooting gloves; they come with long wrists to offer the utmost in comfort. These gloves are thin enough so you won’t have any issue fitting your trigger finger on your favorite weapon and firing.

NEET

11 $8.89-$22.81

PRIMOS HUNTING CALLS

12 $12.91 BOB ALLEN

10 $19.49-$38.69

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STEWARDSHIP IN THIS SECTION

HUNTING ETHICS

+

LAND STEWARDSHIP

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BUILD YOUR SKILLS

REAP WHA W HAT T YOU SOW SOW Take Care Of The Land For Future Generations’ Survival

BECOMING BECOMING ONE with the planet isn’t just for new-age tie-dying explorers. Anyone who has ever pursued the survivalist lifestyle is aware of how intensely important it is to feel at home in the wilderness, to be a good steward to the land and to practice highquality ethics when hunting for dinner. It’s not just about surviving—it’s about ensuring that the United States itself survives, as well as the generations behind us as we pursue our lifestyles. Enter Larry Schwartz and Gary Carter, our resident outdoorsman, who created this special section just for readers who need a primer on ensuring that we don’t overstay our welcome in the woods. Follow their lead to determine where you are within the five stages of becoming an outdoorsman, and ensure that your land stewardship and hunting ethics stand up to scrutiny.

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ETHICS IN

A BUG-OUT SITUATION, FOOD IS KEY. Eventually, when all the food you brought with you runs out, you’ll need to provide your own. Wild plants are a good source of food, but protein is a must, and hunting is the way to obtain it. Hunting to eat follows the natural order of things, and hunting ethically separates us from other animals.

YOU YOU MAY MAY HAVE HAVE TO HUNT TO SURVIVE, SO PLEASE, DO IT RESPONSIBLY BY LARRY SCHWARTZ

North American big game animal in a manner that does not give the hunter an improper advantage over such animals.” Fundamental to all hunting is the concept of natural resources conservation. Hunting in today’s world involves the regulated harvest of individual animals in a manner that conserves, protects and perpetuates the hunted population. The hunter engages in a one-to-one relationship with the quarry, and his or her hunting should be guided by a hierarchy of ethics related to hunting, which includes the following tenets:

THE APEX PREDATOR

By assuming my role as an apex predator, the predator at the top of the food chain, everything that I have learned about the outdoors through the years comes into play in my pursuit of wild game animals, birds and fish. Marksmanship, survival skills, first-aid techniques, camp craft, land navigation, tracking and trailing, weather interpretation and forecasting, plant and tree identification and knowing what animals I am hunting all come together to make me a successful hunter. As an apex predator, I am also a tool of wildlife management for the states in which I hunt. Wildlife management management has become become a critical critical science as the growth of human communities has reduced three of the key factors in animal habitats: adequate food, adequate cover and the predators whose purpose is to keep the number of prey species in the middle of the chain in check. We must keep the number of both prey and predator species at the appropriate levels so that their habitat is not damaged. This is accomplished through habitat restoration and the principles of fair chase, hunting, fishing and trapping. THE RULES OF FAIR CHASE

Fair chase, as defined by the Boone and Crockett Club, is the “ethical, sportsmanlike and lawful pursuit and taking of any free-ranging, wild, native

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1_Obey all applicable laws and regulations. 1_Obey 2_Respect 2_ Respect the customs of the locale where the hunting occurs. 3_Exercise 3_ Exercise a personal code of behavior that reflects favorably on your abilities and sensibilities as a hunter. 4_Attain 4_ Attain and maintain the skills necessary to make the kill as certain and quick as possible. 5_Behave 5_ Behave in a way that will bring no dishonor to the hunter, the hunted or the environment. 6_Recognize 6_ Recognize that these tenets are intended to enhance the hunter’s experience of the relationship between predator and prey, which is one of the most fundamental relationships of humans and their environment. GET A LICENSE

In the late 1800s and the early 1900s, conservation and wildlife management became an important concern for the federal government. National parks were established, the Forest Service came into being and the practice of market hunting was banned. To ensure that the damage caused by uncontrolled market hunting would not happen again, hunters and fishermen were required to obtain a license. They could pursue their game only during the established seasons, and bag limits for each season were established


“HUNTING TO EAT FOLLOWS THE NATURAL ORDER OF THINGS, AND HUNTING ETHICALLY SEPARATES US FROM OTHER ANIMALS.”

KEY TERMS Bag limit: the number of game animals you can take each day or during the season. Carrying capacity: the number of insects, birds, fish and animals that the habitat can support. Ethics: the set of moral and personal rules that we use to guide our actions and decisions. Food chain: shows the connections between the plants and small animals that are eaten by progressively larger animals as they move up the chain. Habitat: the combination of water, food, plants, shelter and space that provides for the needs of the wildlife that lives there. Seasons: the times during the year that a specific game species may be hunted; for example, deer, turkey, and rabbit season. Seasons are used to manage hunting, fishing and also trapping. Wildlife management: the management and control of wildlife species and their habitat to maintain an effective balance between the two.

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A MATTER OF

ETHICS “DEVELOP THE SKILLS TO EFFECTIVELY PERFORM AS THE APEX PREDATOR: LEARN HOW TO USE AND MAINTAIN THE TOOLS OF YOUR TRADE.”

Read All About It Much has been written about hunting, conservation and how it all fits together. The following books will give you a good foundation for performing your role as the apex predator. • “A Sand County Almanc,” by Aldo Leopold • “Meditations on Hunting,” by Jose Ortega y Gassett • “The Old Man and the Boy,” by Robert Ruark • “Beyond Fair Chase,” by Jim Posewitz

to ensure the correct number of each animal was taken to keep the various wildlife species in balance with each other. Today, to get a hunting license, you need to take a hunter safety course that will provide you with basic information about wildlife management, knowledge of outdoor first-aid as well as outdoor survival techniques and the fundamental things you need to know to safely carry a gun so that you are not a danger to yourself or to those with whom you hunt. Hunter safety courses are offered by each state and are normally free of charge. Your license comes from the same departdepartment of your state government that provides the hunter safety training. Fees for residents of the state are normally less than a hundred dollars per year, and non-residents pay a bit more. The license is to hunt in the state that issues it, not the state you are from, so if you live in Nebraska and your hunting area or bug-out location is in Wisconsin, you will need a Wisconsin hunting license.

The hunter harvests food from the land and the air, to feed himself, his family and friends. He is also a key part of the wildlife management program for his or her state or province.

The fisherman or woman takes advantage of the bounty in the seas and waters while helping to keep nature’s balance in those same waters.

DO THE RIGHT THING If you want to take your place as the apex predator in the food chain, make sure you take the right steps to do so. Take the appropriate courses offered by your state for hunter safety, fishing and trapping to ensure you understand your role in wildlife management, keep yourself out of danger and not be a danger to others. Get the applicable licenses for hunting, fishing, or trapping that are required in the state you will be hunting in, or to which you’ll be bugging out. Develop the skills to effectively perform as the apex predator: learn how to use and maintain the tools of your trade. Always conduct yourself afield as a good steward of the resources that are present so that others may use them in the future.

CLASSES AND LICENCES Hunter safety classes, as well as other outdoor safety and skills classes are taught by each state. You can take these courses in a classroom/lecture environment or you can take them online followed by a one-day field experience, during which you get the instruction that cannot be delivered online. Both approaches include a shooting component in which you get to familiarize with a rifle or shotgun and show your instructors that you know how to safely use a firearm in a field environment. The following URLs will take you to the online version of the courses. Checking the websites of your state’s Department of Natural Resources will show you where the in-person classes are held. • Online hunter safety courses are available at Hunter-Ed.com • Online boating safety courses are available at Boat-Ed.com • Online bowhunter education courses are available at BowHunter-Ed.com

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earth

Backpacking and camping, wilderness bug-out locations, home-

steading and hobby farming: These are all things that are near and dear to us as we pursue our long-term preparedness planning. Often, in pursuit of our goals, we forget we need to take care of the land or we eventually won’t have any left where we can farm or homestead or bug out. We owe it to ourselves and to the environment to learn more about how things work out out there and how we should behave in the great outdoors.

BEING A CONSCIENTIOUS STEWARD OF THE LAND IS AN IMPORTANT PART OF SURVIVALISM BY GARY CARTER

CARRYING CARRYING CAPACITY

Everything that lives needs food, water, shelter and a space in which to live. These are the four key elements of any habitat. These elements can only support a finite number of each type of life, plant or animal. These elements are not static; they can and do change with every year and every season. As elements of the habitat change, such as the amount of food or good cover, the number of animals the habitat can support will go up or down. This finite number of animals is called the carrying capacity of the habitat. The concept of carrying capacity actually applies to all kinds of habitats, not just in the outdoors; cities and suburbs have have their own carrying capacities based on the amount of housing or open land, food markets, schools, roadways and public utilities.

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Designed for hikers, campers, and backpackers, the “Leave No Trace” principles below outline the steps we can each take to minimize human impact on the outdoors and its wildlife.

Plan Ahead And Prepare • Know the regulations and special concerns for the area you’ll visit. • Prepare for extreme weather, hazards and emergencies. • Schedule your trip to avoid times of high use. • Visit in small groups when possible. Consider splitting larger groups into smaller groups. • Repackage food to minimize waste. • Use a map and compass to eliminate the use of marking paint, rock cairns or flagging. Travel And Camp Camp On Durable Durable Surfaces • Durable surfaces include established trails and campsites, rock, gravel, dry grasses or snow. • Protect riparian areas by camping at least 200 feet from lakes and streams. • Good campsites are found, not made. Altering a site is not necessary. • In popular areas: Concentrate use on existing trails and campsites. Walk single file in the middle of the trail, even when wet or muddy. Keep campsites small. • Focus activity in areas where vegetation is absent. • In pristine areas: Disperse use to prevent the creation of campsites and trails. • Avoid places where impacts are just beginning.

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Dispose Of Waste Properly • Pack it in, pack it out. Inspect your campsite and rest areas for trash or spilled foods. Pack out all trash, leftover food and litter. • Deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6 to 8 inches deep, at least 200 feet from water, camp and trails. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished.


• Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products. • To wash yourself or your dishes, carry water 200 feet away from streams or lakes and use small amounts of biodegradable soap. Scatter strained dishwater.

Leave What You Find • Preserve the past: examine, but do not touch cultural or historic structures and artifacts. • Leave rocks, plants and other natural objects as you find them. • Avoid introducing or transporting non-native species. • Do not build structures or dig trenches. Minimize Campfire Impacts • Campfires can cause lasting impacts to the backcountry. Use a lightweight stove for cooking and enjoy a candle lantern for light. • Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans, or mound fires. • Keep fires small. Only use sticks from the ground that can be broken by hand. • Burn all wood and coals to ash, put out campfires completely, then scatter cool ashes. • Respect wildlife. • Protect wildlife and your food by storing rations and trash securely. • Control pets at all times, or leave them at home. • Avoid wildlife during sensitive times: mating, nesting, raising young, or winter. Be Considerate Of Other Visitors • Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience. • Be courteous. Yield to other users on the trail. • Step to the downhill side of the trail when encountering pack stock. • Take breaks and camp away from trails and other visitors. • Let nature’s sounds prevail. Avoid loud voices and noises.

You already know that stores stores can stock only so so much food at any time and that the power grid can support only a finite number of electricity users and provide a finite amount of power.

THE FOOD CHAIN Everything in nature both eats and is eaten by something else in nature: that’s the way the food chain works. Grasses and other small plants provide food for fish, large and small animal, and some birds. Bushes and trees provide shelter for animals and birds of all sizes. Prey species, like insects or rabbits or fish or deer, are eaten by larger predator species like foxes, wolves, bears, mountain lions and humans. If there isn’t enough plant life to provide food and shelter for the prey species, then all forms of life will suffer. If there are too many predators, then the number of prey species will dwindle and everything will suffer. Only when there is the right amount of life at each level (plants, prey species and predators) will everything remain in balance and thrive. Left to itself, nature uses carrying capacity and the food chain to manage the number of animals in any given habitat. With the growth of the human population, we have reduced the available habitat for all forms of life and removed most of the large predators from the ecosystem. As a result, we must step in and reduce the amount of prey species by hunting, fishing and trapping.

The food chain illustrates the interconnection between plants, the small animals and insects that eat the plants and the larger omnivores and predators that eat the small animals. Any excess or scarcity at one link in the food chain will cause problems with other links in the food chain.


CARRYING CAPACITY The finite amount of food, water, and shelter in any piece of habitat can only support a finite number of animals; this is called its carrying capacity. If there are too many of any kind of animal in the habitat it will throw off the balance, which will result in damage at one or more levels in the food chain.

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Off-road vehicles are one of the best innovations for outdoorsman outdoorsman in the past decade, but they are also the most destructive to habitat when used in an unethical manner. Running ac ross unmarked sand dunes, grass covered fields, or down wet dirt roads chews up the terrain, causes erosion, sc ares away wildlife and destroys plant life and habitat.

LEAVE NO TRACE A Boy Scouts’ rule of thumb is to always leave your campsite looking better than it did when you got there. Of course, that means not leaving any trash and packing out any that you found along the way. In the old days, it also meant digging little trenches around tents to keep the water from flowing under the sides during a heavy rain, cooking with wood we cut there at the campsite and lashing together racks and stands to add a bit of home to the campsite. Today, we don’t dig trenches because that causes soil erosion, cooking is done over camp stoves that run on liquid or compressed gas fuel and we minimize our cutting and campsite construction activities because there are so many people using the outdoors now that those activities would cause a great deal of damage. There are many things we are now conscious about that we never thought about before. It’s entirely possible to use the earth in a responsible way; if we treat it with respect, it will be there for us when we really need it.

NO EXCUSES Now that you know how you fit into the big picture, equip yourself with the right skills and mindset so you can enjoy the outdoors to the utmost. We need to survive, yes; but we can do it in a way that enables the natural order of things to survive as well and secure the future of preppers to come. Gary Carter is a freelance writer and experienced outdoorsman.

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GROWTH CHART EVOLUTION OF AN OUTDOORSMAN: BUILDING YOUR SKILLS ONE PHASE AT A TIME 4 1 0 2

BY LARRY SCHWARTZ

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“THE JOURNEY OF AN OUTDOORSMAN CAN AND SHOULD BE ONE OF CONTINUOUS GROWTH AND IMPROVEMENT.”

A

S SURVIVALISTS, WE ALL NEED TO BECOME SKILLED OUTDOORSPEOPLE, AND THAT DOESN’T HAPPEN OVERNIGHT. There are, in my opinion, five phases of becoming the ultimate outdoorsperson, and each one offers valuable learning opportunities opportunities along the way. Read on to discover which phase you are in currently and how to step up to the next.

WANDERER PHASE We’ve all been wanderers. Wanderers have some basic outdoor skills, but the main focus of this group is to just get out of the city and into the wild. Their first pocketknife is a major milestone for them and they’re eager to use what few pieces of gear they have. As someone new to the outdoors, the wanderer is likely inexperienced and a bit naïve about how to prepare for time under the sky.

My first lesson as a wanderer was to prepare for changeable weather and the importance of taking care of my equipment. If you’re in this phase, let it be yours as well.

PRACTITIONER PHASE The practitioner has the basic skills needed to travel in the outdoors and probably doesn’t need someone more capable around for safety. You still have much to learn, because your focus now is on getting out by yourself and surviving alone. You know how to to select and pack your own gear and make a fire, and now you need to learn how to handle

BASIC SKILLS

The wanderer is is new to the game, and safety is a concern.


I remember being an eager 12year-old Tenderfoot in the Boy Scouts going on my first hike with a new pair of hiking shoes my parents had gotten me. Since the weather forecast was for clear skies all weekend, I hadn’t taken the time to give them a waterproofing with polish and wax. Cut to rain during the last four miles of the hike and my unprepared shoes soaking up the water from the puddles and mud; not a pretty picture.

As we each move through the phases of being an outdoorsperson, we accumulate a wide variety of skills and insights. These include: • Hiking • Fire making • Land navigation • Cooking • Hunting and fishing • Game preparation • First aid • Camping • Outdoor cooking • Sailing, boating, canoeing, and kayaking • Knots and rope work • Plant identification and use • Tracking and stalking • Wildlife management and conservation

The practitioner knows the basics, can perform them consistently and is safe on his own.

first-aid problems and develop some more basic survival skills including hunting, fishing, tying knots and lashing, using axes and saws effectively and finding your way with or without map and compass. Great skills for the you to focus on in this phase include starting a fire in the rain, setting up a shelter in the dark or in bad weather, consistently providing wild fish or game for the cook pot or campfire spit and finding the way to that secluded glen on the mountainside that appears on a map.

THE OUTDOORSMAN PHASE The outdoorsman possesses the skills to operate well in the outdoors and can perform survival skills consistently. This phase involves mastering the activities you enjoy, like catching the crafty bass that has eluded you by hiding in the submerged structure for the past two years, figuring out the right cartridge and bullet combination to get your rifle to shoot a 2inch group at 100 yards, or getting your backpack weight to less than 40 pounds for a three-day trip. One of the difficult challenges in my outdoorsman phase was taking a pheasant on the wing with my bow and arrow. Hitting a bird it the air


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GROWTH CHART THE FIVE PHASES OF GROWTH

The outdoorsman is ready and eager to push the limits of his skills.

with a shotgun is a challenge in itself, but doing it with a bow and arrow is even more challenging. I wasn’t the only person in our group to do it, but for me it was the highlight of the hunting season as well as a milestone in my survival skill development.

EXPLORER PHASE The Explorer phase is all about new methods, new activities and new challenges. It’s a combination of the previous three phases where you learned new skills, became proficient in them and then stretched them to their limits. Now’s the time to try new things that you hadn’t even considered earlier in your journey. Backpacking and hiking can morph into ultralight backpacking. Fishing might become fly fishing or fishing from a float tube. You may move from the the flatlands to to backpacking in the Rockies, or even start rock climbing. Or, you might

The explorer has reached the point where he is interested in new challenges and looks for different methods or outdoor sports that will provide those challenges.

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PHASE

CHARACTERISTIC

Wanderer Practitioner Outd Outdoo oors rsma mann Explorer Guide

A neophyte learning as much as you can Able to be on on your own and enjoying it Goin Goingg for for the the gus gusto to and and fac facin ingg the the bigg bigges estt cha chall llen enge gess Seeking, taking on and succeeding at new challenges Sharing your knowledge and experience with others

decide to move from hunting with modern equipment and switch to a flintlock muzzle loading rifle. You know you are a capable outdoorsman and now you want to test yourself by trying new and more challenging things. The growth of your skill set gives you pleasure and it also leads you to the fifth and final phase.

GUIDE PHASE As a guide, all of the skills and different perspectives come together. Your joy of being being in the outdoors isn’t based on taking the most birds on a day’s outing or climbing the highest peak, but sharing what you have learned with those who are still on their journeys. Some of my favorite memories center on helping a neophyte accomplish something for the first time. It’s incredibly rewarding to teach new hikers how to read a map and use two compass bearings to find their way on a long trail; or how to use a

WORK IN PROGRESS The journey of an outdoorsman can and should be one of continuous growth and improvement. Don’t be satisfied with just knowing the basics—learn the more detailed skills. Be able to not just sharpen your knife, but get a razor edge on it. Don’t settle for buying your fishing flies, learn to make them yourself. Don’t count on your GPS to get you home, count on your skills with a map and compass to do that … especially when the batteries run out or you can’t get a satellite fix deep in the forest.

The guide gets the most enjoyment not from challenging himself, but by sharing what he knows with others.

knife, some fishing line, a nut, a few turkey feathers picked from the ground and a dowel to create a squirrel hunting arrow. As survivalists, it’s our duty to ensure future generations learn the tricks and trade of staying alive in the outdoors and being prepared for an emergency situation.

KEEP IN MIND Each phase has its own challenges and joys, and you can be in one or all of the phases at the same time, depending on what skill set you’re talking about. You may be in the explorer phase for many of your outdoor experiences but can still be a wanderer when you take on a new challenge. Just make sure that as you go through the phases, you keep open to new things at all times; learning is an essential part of surviving anything. Larry Schwartz is an experienced outdoorsman and hunter who passes on his knowledge through his writing and workshops.


the the GOOD LIFE (continued from page 69)

BATTERY MAINTENANCE The solar arrays and wind generator produce DC current that charges a bank of 12 two-volt batteries in the Crafts’ basement. Wired in series, they provide 24 volts of electricity that flows into a 1,500-watt inverter that changes it to 110-volt AC current to run their household appliances. Those deep-cycle, wet-cell batteries require maintenance. Once a month, the Crafts check them to make sure the water level is not below the lead acid plates. They top the batteries off with distilled water if necessary. “If you take care of them, they usually last about 10 years and that means not overcharging or undercharging them,” Rick said. “The batteries are about $300 apiece, so that’s about $3,500 every 10 years just for batteries. The inverters run about $1,500 for the whole household.” Another part of battery maintenance is performing what’s called an equalization to bring each cell in a bank of batteries to an equal level of charge. “You don’t want one to be one volt and all the others to be at two volts because the one at one volt will act like a resistor and draw down the power from the other batteries,” he said. “So you do an equalization, which is a controlled overcharging of the batteries and you try to do that every 30 days. “A working full charge on a 24-volt system is normally between 22 and 28 volts. With the equalization, you’re overcharging it to say 30 or 31 volts and maintaining that for two hours. It gives the batteries time to heat up. It actually heats the water to the point of almost boiling and that helps the sulfur break free and fall off the lead plates of the battery. It also gets the batteries back to that higher state of charge. “I’ve made a few mistakes. I went through one set of batteries in six years because I didn’t quite maintain them properly. So I lost about four years of use out of them.”

[TOP] Craft prepares to perform a regular maintenance on the bank of 12 two-volt batteries that stores the energy for his home. [INSET] The Crafts can easily monitor their electrical system to ensure their batteries are charging properly and to determine how much electricity they are generating. [BOTTOM] DC controllers prevent the batteries from overcharging and divert extra electricity to be used else where. The system’s 1,500 watt inve rter con verts t he 24volt direct current (DC) to 110volt alternating current (AC) to power the home’s appliances.

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THE UPS AND DOWNS For anyone contemplating living off the grid, there are certain benefits and drawbacks to keep in mind. TIME—“Time is the biggest obstacle,”

Amy said. “Some years we’re really good and the firewood is all stacked in the spring and the gardens are all cleared out and then we can sit back for a few weeks in the summer, but there is always something to be done and there is always something that doesn’t get done.” NO TELEVISION/INTERNET TELEVISION/INTERNET— — “There’s

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very little that I miss,” Amy said. “I don’t miss television. I do miss the computer sometimes. The Internet would be handy to have because more and more, everything that you need to do is electronic, such as banking. But I’m in front of a computer all day at work, so it doesn’t really bother me that we don’t have it here.” FRUGAL ENERGY—Living off the grid

means getting used to being miserly with the electricity. “You don’t use hair dryers and things like that,” Amy said. “I might use a hair dryer once a year. The same thing with the microwave. We rarely use that. That’s probably our biggest power draw, other than the toaster.” FAR AWAY FRIENDS—Sometimes the

[FROM TOP] Amy Craft cans fru its and ve getables from their homestead’s gardens to feed the family during the long months between growing seasons. Garden plants meet power plant. The Crafts’ garden grows as their solar arrays quietly generate electricity. Amy Craft uses a pi tchfork t o turn some compost. Between composting and recycling, the Crafts generate very little trash. 4 1 0 2 R E B M E T P E S

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rural lifestyle that they cherish can also be a hardship. “Not having our family around is hard,” Amy said. “We’re kind of remote. Even people we do become friends with in the area don’t want to come way out here because it’s so far. It gets a little lonely, but sometimes it’s nice too, to have the quiet and the privacy. We see the neighbors once or twice a year and that’s it. We pretty much all keep to ourselves, unless we need something.” KEEPING THE KIDS BUSY— “I guess

the opportunities for the kids aren’t as plentiful here,” she said. “There aren’t as many things to do. So that’s

another big drawback. The kids don’t have friends really close by. They can’t just run down the road to a friend’s house to play.” To enhance the social opportunities for their girls, the Crafts are very active with the local Girl Scout troop and Amy runs the children’s program at the local library. SAFER ENVIRONMENT—While there

might be fewer playmates in the area for the kids, overall the homestead does provide a safe environment. It’s nice that I can let them out the back door and for the most part know that they’re going to be safe,” Amy said. “There isn’t really too much that they can get into that’s going to be a problem other than picking flowers out of my gardens.” MORE INDEPENDENCE—There is a

good sense of security knowing you have a buffer between your family and any upsetting forces in the outside world. “You worry less about it,” Amy said. “In the average home, you think everything in my freezer’s going to go bad, or I’m not going to be able to take a hot shower. Or am I going to be able to get up for work in the morning. I can’t charge my cell phone. Here, all those worries are gone. It’s nice knowing if something did happen, we would be okay. We’ve got food in the basement. We’ve got water.” HEALTHIER LIVING—Although there’s

work involved in growing their own food, they do have peace of mind in knowing that food is healthier. “It’s so nice in the middle of winter to be able to pull something off the shelf and know what went into your jars,” Amy said. said. “When you you get somesomething from the store you don’t know whether it was organically grown or what pesticides they used or what the cans are lined with. So it’s nice to know what went in there and it’s like eating fresh out of the garden.”

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With the h eavy sno wfalls commo n during Northern New York winters, snowmobiles are often the best option for getting around the homestead.

the lives of most of us who live a more entwined existence. “We joke about it, but it’s really not a joke,” Rick said. “We probably have enough food and water for at least a year. If necessary, I’d never have to leave my driveway for a year.” The Crafts have steadily been improving their property and becoming more self-sufficient along the way. Because they both work away from the homestead, finding the time to tend to the chores around the homestead can be a real challenge. “We try to find a happy medium,” said Rick. “If we were here 24/7, I’m sure I could be more efficient with the gardens and they could produce more. We could weed them weekly instead of monthly. If we watered them more often they’d probably be more bountiful.”

WASTE NOT WANT NOT NOT Very little goes to waste, which which is important to the environmentally conscious couple. “About 80 percent of our garbage is either composted or recycled,” Rick said. The Crafts continue their work to make their homestead as efficient as possible. Next up is a system to capture and store rain water for their gardens. The Crafts are living the dream of survivalists. survivalists. Should a bad situation occur, they’ve shored themselves up to weather it all.

N O T S L A R M I T F O Y S E T R U O C O T O H P

PREPPI PRE PPING NG RALS RALSTON TON WITH

BY TIM RALSTON

Timothy Bryan Ralston is an American inventor, veteran, adventurer, author and movie consultant for his expertise in the field of survival and preparedness education. He is best known for his appearance in the powerful motivational film “The Compass” and for being the international spokesperson in the launch of NatGeo’s No. 1-rated program, “Doomsday Preppers.”

TREK TALK

Near Or Far, Make Sure You You’v ’ve e Got Got The The Esse Essent ntia ials ls Regardless of the difficulty or size of your trek, you must be ready to face the harsh realities that go along with entering the wilderness. Every year, there are thousands of search-and-rescue operations performed across our nation. Often they are for hikers who have underestimated the natural conditions of their environment. It’s possible to significantly reduce the number of these incidents if more people would equip themselves with the elemental tools of survival. WATER WATER


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One mistake many inexperienced hikers make is to not bring enough water. Especially in my home state of Arizona, numerous incidents revolve around dehydration. People will hike our mountains in the soaring temperatures without sufficient water, which turns into a deadly combination that can cause delirium, which can result in the hiker getting lost. If there’s one thing you remember, make it to bring as much water as you can, because you will absolutely need it.

AD A D INDEX SEPTEMBER 201 2014 4

“MANY PEOPLE OVERESTIMATE THEIR ABILITIES TO A FAULT, WHICH CAN LEAD TO INJURY OR DEATH.”

TOOLS

There are certain items of survival to have with you on every excursion, and signal and navigation tools are among them. A compass can get you back on track, but for inexperienced hikers, it may not be as valuable. I recommend carrying a tool like a whistle or signaling mirror so that you can be found sooner rather than later. Another important item to have is a fire starter. If you were forced to spend the night in the wild, building a fire could be what saves your life. Not only will it keep you warm, but it may be what helps you get rescued in the end. Another good item to have is cordage. This is a versatile item you can use to capture food, make a shelter, strap your pack, fish build shelter, capture food and make a hammock. Last, you should definitely carry a knife. You can use a knife in a myriad of ways, including as a digging tool, a weapon, for first-aid tasks, as a hammer, to split wood or cut saplings for

a fire and to notch limbs together for a shelter. LESS IS NOT MORE

As an outdoor enthusiast, I can appreciate the fact that sometimes carrying a bunch of extra weight is not ideal. But when safety is an issue, there’s no getting around it; there are some things you just can’t do without. I must stress again that before any trip, it is vital to have a complete understanding of what you are up against. Many people overestimate their abilities to a fault, which can lead to injury or death. If you climb a mountain, be sure that you have enough energy to also climb down. If you choose to leave the path to explore, watch the clock and be mindful of your direction. Carefully select the proper clothing for your adventure’s climate and terrain. You can definitely avoid potentially life-threatening situations in the wilderness with educated planning, so make sure you do your research and stay alive.

ADVERTISER

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AirForce Airguns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .127 Blade-Tech Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Chiappa Firearms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91 Del-Ton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59 Dillon Precision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73 Hero T-Shirt Club/ Club/ Fructhman Marketing 121 Jantz Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53 Jantz Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81 JRH Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Kershaw Knives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 Liberty Log Cabins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 LifeStraw . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .132 Major Surplus & Survival Survival . . . . . . . . . . .10-11 Nitro-Pak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .131 Nitro-Pak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Primal Gear Unlimited LLC . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Scandinavian Tobacco Group . . . . . . . . . .83 Secure Medical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .127 Streamlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79 Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. . . . . . .32-33 Survival Survival Bags Inc. Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87 Tactical Night Vision Company . . . . . . . . .27


TOPS Knives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 Tormach LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .125 W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Cutlery Co. . . . . . . . . . .2 .2 The Advertiser Index is provided as a service to American Survival Guide readers. American Survival Guide is not responsible for omissions or typographical errors on names or page numbers.

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CLOSINGWORDS CLOSING WORDS

“We need to be fit and ready for anything that might come our way.” —AARON B. POWELL, “DOOMSDAY DIARIES”

PHOTO BY THINKSTOCK

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