American Survival Guide Vol.8 Issue 8

How-to: Coastal Survival
Vol. 8 Issue 8
HOW TO PLAN FOR AND DEAL WITH

POST-DISASTER URBAN LIFE
IFUL
BRUTE
GTI’s Delta Lock Folder
Can Handle the Worst
QUALITY TIME WITH
MATT GRAHAM
The Man Who Makes Minimalism Look Easy
SEND EMAILS
BY HAM RADIO?
World Gone Silent’s New and Easy Solution
TOWN AND COUNTRY

EDC
Different Environments Demand
Different Survival Kits
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QUALITY TIME WITH MATT GRAHAM
Self-Reliance Advice from the Man
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PLAN “B” COULD BE FOR BEACH
Why Your Chances May Be Better Near the Ocean than
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TOWN AND COUNTRY EDC
Different Environments Demand Different Survival Kits
By Jim Cobb
HOW-TO
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BOUNTIFUL COASTS
Find Everything You Need
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ADAPTING TO THE AFTERMATH
How to Plan for and Deal With Post-Disaster Urban Life
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The Innovative GTI Delta Lock Folder
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BUDGET-FRIENDLY BUSHCRAFTERS
Bang Around the Bush Without Breaking the Bank
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Four Tools to Keep Your Edges Sharp, And Then Some!
By Reuben Bolieu
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VOL. 8 ISSUE 8
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Carrie Rubalcaba HR Generalist
Speaking of making it on your own, Matt Graham is a online archive has grown to more than 700 articles and
well-known and highly regarded survival expert and prim- can be found at asgmag.com. You can also acquire back This magazine is purchased by the buyer with the understanding that
information presented is from various sources from which there can be
itive skills instructor who has literally walked the walk to issues, in case you have any gaps in your collection, and no warranty or responsibility by Engaged Media, LLC, as to the legality,
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started and his philosophy for approaching the challenge
of staying alive when you don’t rely on the safety net of All the Best!
modern civilization.
The farther we spread out, whether it’s for vacation or
—Mike McCourt
because of trouble, the harder it gets to stay in touch with Brand Manager

1 2
3 4
1 2 3 4
Outdoor Vitals Dominion Klymit Armored V Bushcraft Outfitters Savotta Jaakari M
1P Ultralight Tent Sleeping Mat KoreTemp Poncho Liner Backpack
Outdoor Vitals is no stranger to innovation, The Armored V is Klymit’s response to criticisms While it is designed to mate perfectly with the Savotta starts by using premium PUR-coated,
and they constantly try to push the boundaries that inflatable pads are too prone to be punc- KoreTemp Poncho, the liner can be used on its waterproof 1000D Cordura nylon. All the buckles,
by creating unique products using premium tured to be relied on. It incorporates all of the own as a stand-alone garment, a makeshift zippers and fasteners are made with tough,
materials and bringing them direct to the features that Klymit has become known for and sleeping bag, a blanket, a bivvy or a hammock Mil-Spec materials and are arranged to provide
consumer. The new Dominion 1 one-person melds them with a new armored SuperFabric underquilt. Two-inch channels at the top and maximum versatility. Brand new for 2019, the
tent takes the design language created for the that is covered with over 300,000 puncture-re- bottom are for use with paracord or shock Jaakari M includes their all new hip belt that
Dominion 2.5 and reduces the size to make it sistant scales. Integrated side rails improve com- cord. Its large front pocket and oversized hood improves fit and comfort under load. The large
lighter, more durable and more user-friendly. fort and stability, and the deep weld patterning with drawcord will come in handy on cold main compartment is covered by a fitted flap and
This tent has a modular design that requires allows insulation to maintain its loft beneath the days. Made with high-loft polyester insulation, waterproof drawcord collar. Adjustable vertical
a single free-standing aluminum pole and pad. The Armored V measures 72x23x2.5 inches, the poncho liner measures 93x62 inches and and horizontal compression straps keep the load
has fully taped waterproof seams. The floor weighs 46.4 ounces and packs down to just weighs 40 ounces. It’s machine washable and stable as gear is stowed inside and in integrated
size is 85x32x28 inches, and the peak height 5.5x9 inches. stows in an included stuff sack. side gear pockets. This 30 liter pack is hydration
is 35 inches. Pack size and weight are 5x5x20 bladder-compatible, measures 55x27x20 inches
inches and 2 pounds, 9 ounces. MSRP: $199.95 MSRP: $114.95 and weighs 4.4 pounds.
MSRP: $199.97 www.Klymit.com https://BushcraftOutfitters.com MSRP: $175.99

www.OutdoorVitals.com https://Finn-Savotta.fi

N
ever have there been more options for the wide variety of high-quality outdoor and survival gear. With new companies
forming to address gaps in the market and established companies innovating new products, it is nearly impossible to keep
up to date with everything that is available. Fortunately, we here at American Survival Guide are always on the lookout for
interesting, useful, high-quality products, and this group includes some new items that meet all of those criteria. We hope
that you will find something useful.
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CRKT Large Pilar Folder Condor Terrasaur Fixed Zero Tolerance ZT0022 Condor Campsite Axe
When CRKT introduced the original, smaller, Blade Knife Folder The new Condor Campsite Axe was designed
Pilar folding knife, it became an instant to be a hard-use, bombproof hand axe that
Joe Flowers, a designer for Condor Tool and Reading company slogans such as “Proudly
success. The Pilar series was designed by can be used at the homestead, hunting
Knife, collaborated with custom makers on a Overbuilt in the USA” and “Go Bold,” one does
renowned knifesmith Jesper Voxnaes and camp or carried in a pack. The compact,
multiuse fixed blade knife in 2009, suitable not think of small knives when thinking about
named after Ernest Hemingway’s sailboat. lightweight Campsite axe is forged from a
for bushcrafters, hunters, adventurers and Zero Tolerance. With this in mind, the ZT0022
Many fans of the original asked for a larger single piece of 1075 carbon steel and has
woodsmen. The Condor Terrasaur Knife came as quite a surprise. It is a tiny, light-
version of the Pilar with upgraded blade steel an over-molded, polypropylene handle that
was the result. Now, Condor will be making weight knife. In fact, it is the smallest knife ZT
that would be suitable for more substantial is available in green or tan. The hardened
the first production version of the knife, in a has ever built. Designed by the father of high-
cutting tasks. The Large Pilar weighs 3.52 hammer poll means that you can use the
compact affordable package. The goal of the end custom tactical knives Tim Galyean, the
ounces, is 5.625 inches long open, and the Campsite Axe as a hammer or maul with
Condor Terrasaur is to make an affordable 0022 has premium materials, features and
D2 sheepsfoot blade is 2.625 inches. Access little worry of damaging the head. The head
bushcraft knife that can be used by anyone, build quality. The KVT ball bearing flipper is
the blade with either the flipper or the thumb measures 4.26x2.99x0.18 inches, the overall
from the beginner all the way to the expert fast and smooth on this titanium frame lock,
hole. The handle slab on this frame lock length is 11.38 inches, and the Campsite
woodsman. The overall length is 8.85 inches, and the full carbon fiber grip panel feels good
is black G10. Choose from black or satin weighs 23.64 ounces.
4.15 of which is the scandi grind 1095 carbon in the hand. The 1.8-inch blade is made with
finishes.
steel blade. The high-impact composite han- CPM 20CV. Overall length is 4.75 inches, and MSRP: $99.98
MSRP: $69.99 dle and matching sheath are available in three the ZT0022 weighs just 1.7 ounces.
colors. The Terrasaur weighs 7.1 ounces www.CondorTK.com
www.CRKT.com MSRP: $250.00
MSRP: $49.98
https://ZT.KaiUSALtd.com
www.CondorTK.com

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Leatherman FREE P4 Inergy Apex Solar Generator Exotac RipSPOOL 2.0 Cold Steel AD10
The new Free P4 represents the beginning of Inergy's Apex is a solar generator that is 66 per- The folks at Exotac are good at what they do Custom knifemaker Andrew Demko has been
a new era of innovation for Leatherman. The cent smaller than their closest competitor. At because they are outdoorsmen and know designing knives and locking mechanisms for
new Free line of tools utilizes Leatherman's 25 pounds, the Apex is lightweight, providing an what is needed from personal experience. The Cold Steel Knives for many years. He is the
new magnetic locking architecture. This industry-leading weight-to-power ratio. The in- RipSPOOL was created to address the need designer of the Tri-Ad Lock used in many of
ensures easier opening and closing without ternal lithium battery provides 1,100 watt-hours for gear maintenance in the field. Anyone who Cold Steel’s folding knives. This lock is arguably
sacrificing safety. Wear and tear on the tools of power and has a life expectancy of about 10 has experienced a ripped rainfly or a torn pack the strongest lock ever made for a folding knife.
is also reduced, which will add years to the years. That is enough power for 100 hours of strap will tell you they wished they had the The AD10 represents one of the first knives
life of the tools. Freeing your off hand, all tools smartphone use, 20 hours on a laptop, 16 hours tools necessary to do a quick quality repair. The produced by Cold Steel that is part of Demko’s
are accessible one-handed and while the tool of 50-inch LED TV time or 2.5 hours of sump RipSPOOL addresses these needs by providing custom line. The hollow ground CPM-S35VN
is closed. All 20 tools lock for added security pump use. When purchased with Inergy’s solar a convenient way to carry duct tape, sewing blade is a respectable 3.75 inches long and
and safety. Closed length of this 420HC panels, the Apex can be run indefinitely using thread, and a needle. The new version now has dual thumb studs. The overall length is
stainless tool is 4.25 inches, and it weighs 8.6 nothing but the sun. Some key features include includes different color options and an improved 8.5 inches, and the black G10 handles provide
ounces. The main blade length is 2.75 inches. selective AC/DC power, USB Quickcharge 3.0 needle retention system. The kit includes 60 feet plenty of grip. The wide pocket clip reverses to
and USB-C, 500W maximum input, charging of braided 30-pound test line, 50 inches of heavy accommodate all users.
MSRP: $139.95 temperature range is 30 to 104 degrees (F). duty repair tape, a #16 sail needle and a Firecord
Dimensions are 14x7x8 inches. lanyard. The RipSPOOL measures 1x3 inches MSRP: $239.99
www.Leatherman.com
and weighs just 8 ounces.
MSRP: $1,999 www.ColdSteel.com
MSRP: $29.95
https://InergyTek.com
www.Exotac.com

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Ultimate Survival Tips Solar4Power 120 Fieldcraft Survival Crate of Wrath Chest
Tiny Survival Card Portable Solar Modular Visor Panel The Wise Men Company Crate of Wrath is a
David, the owner of Ultimate Survival Tips Generator System The Modular Visor Panel (MVP) is designed
custom-made, heirloom-quality chest designed
to hold all your everyday carry items neatly
paired up with Craig Caudill from the Nature to meet your everyday mobility and medical
The Solar4Power 120-watt solar power sys- while keeping them discreetly secure. Each
Reliance School to create the Survival Show equipment organization needs. The MVP
tem is self-contained and sets up in minutes handmade crate includes two drawers and a top
podcast. They discuss and distribute knowl- mounts to your vehicle’s visor or seat headrests
to provide you with the electricity you need to compartment that lock using a steel bar and a
edge and gear to anyone willing to listen and with adjustable straps. The MVP also has a Vel-
keep essential devices going when your main hidden magnetic locking system. Each section
know that survival gear is only useful if it is cro tear-away medical pouch designed to hold
power supply is out. Built into a lockable of the chest is filled with pick and pluck foam
accessible when you need it most. Hence, the included Basic Hemorrhage Response Kit
durable carry case, this unit is equipped with allowing you to customize your organization. The
the creation of the Tiny Survival Card. This (BHRK) and retainers for an included Combat
a rechargeable battery and provides power overall dimensions are 13x14.5x12 inches. The
useful piece of equipment measures 3.3x2.1 Application Tourniquet (CAT-T). The MVP also
and charges at the same time. The system top compartment is 12.5x3x10.5 inches and the
inches and fits in your wallet and includes converts to a chest rig with a fully adjustable
includes foldable solar panels and panel drawers are 10.5x1.5x9 inches. The Crate of Wrath
enough tools to cover 17 different functions. X-harness and waist strap. The chest rig is
connectors, a battery charge indicator, USB is available in multiple standard and custom
The card is made in the USA of 302 stainless designed to carry your tactical, survival, medical,
adapter, and more. The main case is 22x14x9 finishes.
steel and will give you an edge, and a whole and hunting gear and is adaptable for use with
inches and weighs 29 pounds, and the panel
lot more, when the going gets tough.
case is 28.4x20.1x3.2 inches and weighs 28.7
a pistol. MSRP: $499.99
MSRP: $20 pounds MSRP: $99.99 http://WiseMenCompany.com
https://UltimateSurvivalTips.com MSRP: $1,995 https://FieldcraftSurvival.com
https://Custom-Mfg-Eng.com

SELF-RELIANCE ADVICE FROM THE MAN
WHO MAKES MINIMALISM LOOK EASY!
BY MICHAEL D’ANGONA
S
urvival expert, check! Primitive Wild,” “Dude, You’re Screwed,” “Survivorman”
skills instructor, check! Rock and “The Amazing Race.”
climber and triathlete, check! In our exclusive interview, Matt opened up to
These are all true statements ASG about his survival philosophy, what pushes
without a doubt, but what truly him to his uppermost limits, and why he always
exemplifies Matt Graham as “exceptional” is has that never-fail, big smile on his face.
his ability to make even the most difficult chal-
lenges when deep within the wild appear as a AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE Who influ-
Sunday stroll through a neighborhood park. enced you to explore the wide world of nature
While some outdoorsmen perceive their in general and survival specifically?
time out in nature as a challenge or a virtual
“Mother Nature against me,” Matt’s philosophy MATT GRAHAM If I look back, there have
is quite different. Since a very young age, he has probably been many people that have influ-
developed a bond—or even more accurately, a enced my path with nature. Some in major
relationship—with the outdoors that few peo- ways, and some more subtle. The first two
ple can emulate, let alone, fully understand. people that really gave me some insight and in-
Matt’s unique approach to surviving in diverse spiration to native skills were a curator at a mu-
environments originates from his love of seum in Yosemite National Park and a native
primitive skills, ancient weaponmaking and Miwok woman living there. I had moved to the
proficiency, and his ability to use little or no valley to climb when I was 17. I would often sit
modern gear when immersed alone in the heart for hours watching the Miwok woman—I believe
of nature. her name was Lucy—making baskets and long
With such specialized skills and outside-the- beautiful cordage from milkweed fibers.
box mindset, Matt has become one of today’s The curator taught me how to make my first
leading primitive survival experts. Because friction fire. He also made beautiful sinew-
of this, he is in demand on screen and as a backed juniper Ishi-style bows, processed
consultant behind the scenes of such notable acorns, and would make elaborate carrying nets
television shows such as “Dual Survival,” “Living from milkweed or dogbane fiber! I was a climb-

“WE NEVER KNOW WHAT HAND WE’LL BE
DEALT AND SHOULD BE PREPARED TO
CONFRONT ALL POSSIBILITIES.”
er and mountain runner at the time, but this exposure had me take a deeper look at my interaction
with nature. I spent the next few years wandering the Sierras on foot and practicing these skills.
In my early 20s, I was searching for a bigger community of people engaged in connected outdoor
living. I saw an ad in a magazine for Boulder Outdoor Survival School, but it was in Utah! I had never
been there and didn’t own a car. Nonetheless, I tied a few things to my bicycle and peddled over
from California. Immediately I fell in love with the land and met several mentors—to name a few:
Breck Crystal, Dave Wescott, David Holiday. They have all taught me many things along my journey
to becoming a teacher myself and have become good friends since.
ASG What, for you, is ideal while living under survival conditions? To be alone, with a partner, or in
a small group?
MG Physically it’s often easier alone. However, the experience of having a group work cohesively
together in a wilderness environment may be one of the best feelings ever!
ASG Humans are naturally social animals. Was it a challenge for you to spend long amounts of
time without interacting with other people?
MG Truth is, it’s a bit of a conundrum at times for me. I’m very social as well, and I also thrive
when pushing myself, and immersing deep into the land. Even though I’ve spent up to six months
at a time alone in the wilderness, I had always felt like it was a short amount of time in the grand
‹ Above: Matt’s
minimalistic style is
found in his skills and
techniques and is
even reflected in his
clothing.
‹ Left: Primitive
hunting weapons
have always fasci-
nated Matt, and he
uses them regularly
when spending long
stretches of time
alone in the wilder-
ness.

‹ Left: Matt feels
most alive when
immersed in
nature. He carries
a minimal amount
of gear, so his bond
with the surround-
ings is true and
authentic
spectrum of my life. I feel most alive when I’m raw with the land, and I’d love others to see their ASG If you could stock only a fanny pack-
connection with the earth too. Rewinding humanity in an advancing technological existence is a size kit on an extended outdoor getaway,
process that needs gentle massaging. what items would you include and why?
ASG On that same subject, how would you recommend to a normal Joe how to prepare for MG I should preface that my interactions ‹ Below: Matt
hand-carves the
long-term isolation from other people? with nature are more about connection and
thrower section of
long-term sustainability than immediate the atlatl.
MG It’s different for everyone. For me, I had to feel a deep connection with the land to spend
long periods of time alone in it. The logical mind says, “I need lots of gear to survive long term.“
For some this may be the case, however an excess of technology will make you feel like a foreign
visitor in the wild, like an alien on another planet. In order to stay for long periods alone in the
wild, you must feel a sense of belonging.
ASG Of all the environments that you have been exposed to, which pushed you to the furthest
limits physically and mentally?
MG That’s a good question. When I surrender to any environment or place myself in a survival
challenge, I get pushed in different ways. In expansive desert environments I often get pushed
with lack of water and endurance needed to make long stretches without food or water. Jungle
environments bring out my inner Tarzan and I feel quite at home, but I get challenged with the
number of insects and creatures that like to make a meal out of your skin. Cold environments
probably have the most immediate threat of death if you make the wrong decisions or get
caught out without a proper plan.
With all this being said, I don’t think humans are necessarily meant to master multiple environ-
ments in a lifetime. I think you have to find the one that calls to you and you have to stick with
it. It’s really been my exposure with TV that has forced me into so many survival circumstances
around the world.
ASG Too many times people say they are going out to beat Mother Nature, yet failure is a common
result. How do you respond to that statement?
MG We are nature. To think you’re going to beat it is only giving yourself the lashings.

‹ Left: Matt
patiently coaxes
sparks into flames
as he builds a fire
that will cook his
dinner and provide
some light for his
camp.
‹ Below: Matt
teaches others how
to hold and shoot
the atlatl.
‹ Bottom: Matt
thoroughly enjoys
using primitive
weapons. The
atlatl’s beginnings
date back thou-
sands of years.
survival that the average person may face. As a teacher, I share tools with students that allow them
to maximize the help of nature rather than focusing on the best go bag.
I make my waist pack by rolling up a 5-by-5-foot piece of thin cloth (sheet thickness). It weighs the
same as a waist pack yet serves as a tool to sleep under, gather materials, and keep insects off.
When I’d roam in the canyons for weeks at a time in the summer and fall, I would carry within
the waist roll a mini hand-drill fire kit; stone knife; buckskin bag of nuts, pinole or dried berries; a
silk sleeping bag liner; and sometimes a small cup-size vessel to cook in. Nowadays, I’ve experi-
mented with more gear, but the cloth roll setup is what I have the most experience with and feel
the freest with.
ASG For most people, being hungry affects them negatively, even after only a day or so. What do
you feel is the best method or technique to overcome the first few days of having no food?
MG Some people get the “hangries” because it’s a foreign feeling to them. They feel out of control
and closer to death. In a sense, they are all these things. That is nature. To live with it for the past
100,000 years, we’ve always had to surrender and trust it. Today, the modern diet has so much
carbohydrates and sugars that people have harder crashes in the wild.
I’ve experimented a lot with my off-trail diet. In the past, I’d eat more like a vegetarian when off the
trail because it seemed more ethical. Lately, I’ve been trying to keep my diet closer to what I’d eat
when in the wild, and I’m finding I need less food and adapt better. It’s up to us individually to decide
what’s important. Eating is definitely fun and social.
ASG How does one know when they should take the chance of drinking bad water versus risking
the onset of dehydration?
MG I have seen a lot of misguided information on this subject in the past. I often heard many “pro-
fessionals” say never drink the water in a survival situation because you’ll get sick and throw it all up.
In deep wilderness situations, void of chemical pollutants, the water is generally drinkable for most

people that don’t consume medications, antibiotics, or drink a lot of chlorinated water ordinarily. future is healthy either, and we are becoming
All these things disrupt good flora levels in the stomach and make you more susceptible to simple exceedingly dependent on fragile ways of living.
waterborne bacteria that our bodies have been fine with for thousands of years. We have hidden behind our technology rather
Also, most natural waterborne parasites take multiple days to be harmful if you’re susceptible. If than incorporate it into healthier ways of living.
you are in danger of dehydration and there is wild water nearby that doesn’t have a dead animal
laying in it or chemical pollutants in it, it’s probably a good idea to take a drink, walk out, then deal
with any repercussions later. If you are out for a short day hike and you forgot your water bottle,
then it’s up to your discretion. I stopped filtering my water because I was living as a hunter-gatherer
and found boiling and filtering took away from the connection. I have drunk thousands of gallons of
MATT’S
LITTLE
wild water over the years. I’ve only been sick twice, and I was able to cure it quickly using sagebrush
(Artemisia tridentata) followed with Oregon grape (Mahonia aquifolium) root.
ASG Let's say a person with no outdoor training or experience wants to get into the world of surviv-
al. Where does he or she start?
BUGGER FIXED
MG Seek out the most experienced instruction, then get excited about what you learned. Read a
lot and immerse yourself into the wilderness. BLADE KNIFE
ASG What is most important, trial and error in the field or steady research before you venture out? Designed by Matt, the Little Bugger was created to fill the niche of
Or is it a combination of both? an all-purpose knife while being lightweight and compact enough
to store nearly anywhere. Matt, while out in the wild, usually wears
MG I think it’s about personal drive, balance and what you believe in. Currently, there is very little a minimal amount of clothing, so he needed a knife that could fit
research that’s going to give the tools necessary to thrive with the land. It takes a lifetime to master easily into his shorts and stay put while running, climbing or trekking
an environment. We have become a culture of quantity over quality, wanting to know more and through dense vegetation. This full-tang knife features a modified
experience less when it comes to wilderness. I think if someone is serious about learning a specific scandi grind, it stays razor sharp even after extended use, and is
environment, they would benefit hugely by seeking out someone who has devoted their life to the ready to tackle nearly any task in a variety of environments.
environment and skills necessary to thrive there. Then they can begin to make their own personal SPECIFICATIONS
journey with it. If a person is only interested in short-term disaster preparedness, there are also • Overall length: 5.75 inches
• Blade length: 2.38 inches
guides for this.
• Blade thickness: 0.09 inch
• Blade steel: 1095 hardened to RC 56-58
ASG With the most recent end-of-the-world predictions passed by and many people not thinking • Blade finish: Tumbled
about preparedness, do you feel that complacency has set in? • Handles: Tan canvas Micarta
• Weight: 2.40 ounces
• Sheath: Coyote Tan Kydex
MG To be a fully present human being is to accept all matters of time. One cannot be fully present
in the now if they are denying the past and future at the same time. We can always learn a lot by MSRP: $120
www.TOPSKnives.com
looking at the past and understanding where the future lies. I don’t believe that dwelling in the
Far left: Matt

designed the Little
Bugger to be light,
small enough to
carry easily and
with a blade that's
large enough to
handle the bulk
of his needs in the
field. TOPS Knives
makes and sells
this efficent and
effective blade.

› Atlatl in hand,
It’s never too late for change, but it does appear
Matt surveys the
things will get quite a bit rougher before that area for signs of
awareness takes place again. dinner. It took him
some trial and
error and plenty of
ASG Looking back over your career, or even your practice to become
proficient with this
entire life, are there any times that you would tool, as is the case
jump in an instant to change or alter if you could? with most essential
survival skills.
MG No. I’m where I’m supposed to be.
ASG How has your outlook evolved concerning

survival and preparedness from the beginning of
your survival career to the present?
MG I’ve never really been into those things very

much. My time in the wilderness started from an
athletic place of running and climbing. Eventually
this got me to look at how traditional cultures
lived more harmonious lives on the planet.
ASG Is it difficult to balance a simple back-to-

nature lifestyle while still following production
schedules, keeping up with your followers on
social media and many other everyday commit-
ments?
MG I have allowed many of my skills and

connection with the land to stagnate in order to
take the time to share it, create awareness and
entertain through television and film. For now, ASG Overall you enjoy using primitive weapons and more specifically the atlatl. Could you share
that’s OK because it’s a necessary phase of my some background as to how you were introduced to these centuries-old weapons?
life. There will probably be a time when I prefer
being in the wilderness over all of it. MG I never really liked guns growing up, but I romanticized about being able to live with the land as
past native cultures had. This led me into passionate experimentation of all these land-based tools.
ASG I believe you were developing a line of atlatls with modern-day materials for the public? Is
MATT, WHY
that nearing completion and will it soon be available for purchase?
MG For such a simple tool, figuring out the best way to develop it for the general public to learn
THE ATLATL? from and enjoy this tool has required a bit more massaging than expected. I believe I have some
The atlatl is the hunting tool I feel the greatest connection with.
There is something magical about the way it sails through the
air with precision. I believe for the amount of time required to
build and maintain it, it’s still one of the most effective tools,
primitive or otherwise. It’s also been used as a hunting tool in the
evolution of humanity perhaps longer than any other effective
hunting tool, and has been used by every culture, color, or race of
people on the planet.
I made my first atlatl 23 years ago. It wasn’t that great, so I
presumed it was a tool you had to grow up with to be proficient
at, a thing for old history books. However, my curiosity led me
to immediately make about 40 atlatls, taking roots from many
different cultural designs. Eventually, I found one I liked. It wasn’t
long before it was feeding me fish and game on a daily basis.

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”FOR ME, I HAD TO FEEL A DEEP CONNECTION WITH THE LAND
TO SPEND LONG PERIODS OF TIME ALONE IN IT.”
› Matt Graham's gears lined up for it now though. MG I always love spending time with other friends or peers in my field, and we always learn
philosophy for liv-
ing in the outdoors things together. I think if I were to find deeper answers that have not been answered, it would
is different than ASG What helps to keep you motivated involve spending time with a Stone Age tribe (if they still exist) in Australia, or the Amazon.
most. Rather than
attempting to beat on your journey to explore all things Mother Personally speaking though, I still have a lot of personal exploration and drive for continuing
Mother Nature into Nature has to offer? my understanding of the Western US. I don’t believe humans are meant to be global masters. At
submission, he
connects with the some point, you have to choose a place and learn to thrive there.
environment to find MG Nature is mysterious and magical! You
ways to get what he
needs to survive. never really fully understand or master her, ASG What does the future hold for Matt Graham? Any new books, television shows or interest-
but she always keeps you engaged. I think ing news for your fans?
for me, I like the feeling of being pushed and
comforted all in the same moment. I got into MG Currently my life has many directions it could go. I am working on teaching more and building
the outdoors initially from a strong athletic an educational platform. I also want to do more human-powered adventures and much more
drive but quickly transitioned into finding hunter-gatherer time. Work on my relationships and friendships. I have a couple more projects and
more connected ways of living outside. Both possible series that I may do with Discovery (Channel). I’m continuing to design more and working
get me excited and still encompass my life in more in a producer position. I will also be working a Stone Age film project for a British network in
one way or another. the fall. There may also be more to do with the "First Man Out" series which is airing now.
ASG Hypothetically, if you could meet, spend ASG Finally, using only three words, how would you describe yourself?
time with, and learn from another person in
your field, whom would you choose and why? MG Passionate, interested and interesting.

THE INNOVATIVEGTIDELTALOCKFOLDER
CAN HANDLE THE JOB.
BY STEVEN PAUL BARLOW
H
ow strong is too strong? How of extreme-use fixed blade and folding designs to his credit, including both custom blades
tough is too tough? How and collaborations with White River Knives, 5.11 Tactical and Kizer. In 2001, he founded Ranger
capable is too capable? Knives, now a part of the Ontario Knife Company. He founded GTI in 2009.
When it comes to choosing Many of Gingrich’s knives have been designs commissioned by elite military units. The Delta
a knife that might have to Lock Folder, however, is an EDC knife that brings that military toughness to civilian carry.
handle critical survival tasks beyond simple,
everyday cutting chores, the limits are defined WHAT’S AN EDC BLADE?
by what you’re willing to carry. We tend to pigeonhole knives into loosely defined categories such as survival, bushcraft,
Many of us opt for a folding knife for every- tactical, traditional and utility. An EDC (everyday carry) blade should be a little bit of all of
day carry as a matter of convenience. But we those things.
don’t want to give up too much in the way of “In my opinion an EDC blade should be able to do exactly what the Delta Lock folder can do,”
performance. The GTI Delta Lock Folder is a said Gingrich. “It should be multipurpose in its design and function. It should be able to handle
knife with a wide, thick blade paired with an anything that I am going to encounter in my day no matter if I am just in the office and need
innovative, super-strong locking system. It’s a to open boxes or in the woods and need to skin an animal. It should be light enough that I will
strong, tough, capable knife that’s sized to be want to carry it every day and strong enough to instill confidence in it so I won't worry about
carried every day. failure.”
Former Army Ranger Justin Gingrich is the After more than 27 years in law enforcement, I’m well aware that any day can present unex-
force behind GTI -- Gingrich Tactical Innova- pected critical situations with frightening suddenness. I never want to feel helplessly unpre-
tions. His 10 years of military service included pared. I might need to cut through a seatbelt or punch out a car window after an auto accident.
time with the 3rd Ranger Battalion, 20th I might have to hack my way through a sheet rock wall to escape a fire in the next room. I might
Special Forces Group and the Ranger Training have to slash at an attacker who is trying to gain control of my firearm or put me into a choke hold.
Brigade. As a knife designer, he has a number But I also spend lots of time in the woods, hiking, camping and hunting in remote areas. I

S O U R C E S
Eze-Lap Diamond Sharpeners

www.Eze-Lap.com
Gingrich Tactical Innovations

(GTI)
www.GingrichTactical.com
Lansky Sharpeners
www.Lansky.com
Spyderco Tri-Angle Sharpener

www.Spyderco.com
Victorinox Dual Knife

Sharpener
www.Victorinox.com
want my EDC blade to process tinder for fire building, to field-dress game and to help me prepare
dinner. And, when traveling light, that knife might have to help me build a shelter, assemble a
travois to haul out a deer or an injured companion, fashion a trigger for a snare or improvise other
things I need. An unintended night in the woods is only a twisted ankle away.
One of the main reasons the GTI Delta Lock Folder can handle many of these tasks is its unique
blade locking system.
UNIQUE DELTA LOCK

Gingrich describes his patent pending Delta Lock as a “liner frame lock.” It operates as easily
as a liner or frame lock, but it’s really neither. There are no actual liners under the titanium grip
panels, and the handle itself doesn’t lock the blade.
Instead, there’s a stainless steel bar inset into one of the grip panels. The tang of the blade has
two flat edges perpendicular to the edge as well as a V-shaped extension that provides two more
edges. When you open the blade, that steel bar engages with all four surfaces. Those four points
“WHEN IT COMES TO CHOOSING A KNIFE THAT MIGHT HAVE TO

HANDLE CRITICAL SURVIVAL TASKS BEYOND SIMPLE, EVERYDAY
CUTTING CHORES, THE LIMITS ARE DEFINED BY WHAT YOU’RE
WILLING TO CARRY.”

of contact provide about 1 5⁄8 -inch of total “FORMER ARMY RANGER JUSTIN GINGRICH
surface engagement. Most liner or frame locks IS THE FORCE BEHIND GTI -- GINGRICH
have just a single point of contact for ¼- to
½-inch of engagement.
TACTICAL INNOVATIONS. HIS TEN YEARS
“This is what sets it apart from every other OF MILITARY SERVICE INCLUDED TIME
lock on the market,” Gingrich said. “I have no WITH THE 3RD RANGER BATTALION, 20TH
problem saying it is the strongest lock current-
ly on the market.”
SPECIAL FORCES GROUP AND THE RANGER
In addition, when the blade is closed, that TRAINING BRIGADE.”
V-shaped extension on the tang protrudes
slightly from the handle to provide a striking sticks, processing wood, general camp chores, hunting and skinning applications and so on. The
edge that can serve as a glass breaker. thickness is there to keep the blade as strong as possible without being too heavy in the pocket.
Yes, the lock is great, but what about the That’s also why I chose titanium for the handles. At that thickness, it is able to accomplish all
all-important blade itself? the above tasks without the user having to worry about it.”
The steel is Carpenter’s CTS-BD1, the same steel that’s used in some of the author's favorite
WIDE, THICK BLADE Spyderco blades.
This knife features a 3.25-inch drop point “I chose it for a couple of reasons,” Gingrich said. “One is to keep the folder affordable. Two, it
blade with a hollow grind. That blade is 1 5⁄16 is easier to sharpen in the field than S35VN and some of the other common steels being used
inches wide and 5/32 of an inch thick. That’s a today. So, it is a good stainless that I can beat on and sharpen again without
hefty blade that helps provide a lot of power too much effort.”
for heavy-duty cutting tasks. So, what are some of the other features of this knife?
“I chose a drop point for strength,” Gingrich
said, “and, in my opinion, it is one of the most NUTS AND BOLTS
versatile blade shapes as I can use it for fuzz The knife features dual thumb studs and a flipper. Take your choice. The
blade pivot is smooth and the blade opens easily with one hand – either hand.
I appreciate that. Even though I am mostly right-handed, I often carry a knife so
that it’s accessible with my left hand, should I need it to defend against a grab for my
handgun that I carry on my right hip. The titanium grip panels feature a raised diamond
checkering pattern.
“Titanium handles were chosen to keep it lightweight and also as maintenance-free as possi-
ble,” Gingrich said.
All other hardware is stainless steel, including the spacers that separate the grip panels. I like
that open design. It keeps moisture-absorbing lint and other debris from becoming trapped in
the mechanism. And should you use the knife for especially messy chores, such as game process-
ing, it’s much easier to clean out.
‹ Top left: The GTI Delta Lock Folder is a well-

made knife with a strong new patent pending
locking mechanism.
‹ Middle: The open design of the

knife helps to keep lint and other
debris from being trapped in the
mechanism.
‹ Bottom left: The blade flipper allows for

one-handed opening and serves as a finger
guard when the blade is open. The knife
exhibited no blade wobble.
› Top right: The patent pending Delta Lock en-
gages the blade along four surfaces. It’s a strong
system that’s as easy to use as a liner lock.
GTI Delta Lock Folder

Designer: Justin Gingrich
Specifications
• Length open: 8 inches
• Length closed: 4 7/8 inches
• Blade length: 3 1/4 inches
• Blade thickness: 5/32-inch
• Blade configuration: Drop point, hollow ground,
› The GTI Delta Lock Folder is slightly less

than five inches long when closed. While
heavier than some folders, its overall quality
makes it a good choice for everyday carry.
VIVAL GUIDE 25
‹ Top left and near left: The author test-
ed the knife’s glass breaker on a junked
car. A forceful blow in a lower corner
proved effective.
‹ Far left, middle: The knife’s glass break-

er worked well and could be a lifesaver
for someone trapped in a sinking or
burning car.
‹ Below: The open design of the knife helps to

keep lint and other debris from being trapped
in the mechanism.
“GINGRICH DESCRIBES HIS

PATENT PENDING DELTA LOCK
‹ The patent pending Delta Lock engages the
blade along four surfaces. It’s a strong system
AS A “LINER FRAME LOCK.” IT OPERATES
that’s as easy to use as a liner lock. AS EASILY AS A LINER OR FRAME LOCK,
BUT IT’S REALLY NEITHER.”
26 AMERICA
“THE GTI DELTA LOCK FOLDER IS A KNIFE
WITH A WIDE, THICK BLADE PAIRED WITH AN ‹ The GTI Delta Lock Folder would be
a good addition to other basic gear on a
INNOVATIVE, SUPER-STRONG LOCKING SYS- hike in the woods.
TEM. IT’S A STRONG, TOUGH, CAPABLE KNIFE

THAT’S SIZED TO BE CARRIED EVERY DAY.”
The steel pocket clip is attached with two screws and is positioned for right-handed, tip-up
carry only. That’s okay by me. I don’t often use a pocket clip, preferring to keep what I’m carrying
as my own business.
“Pocket clips in general are a double-edged sword,” Gingrich said. “They make accessing the
blade easier, but do tend to snag on things and also are hard to conceal (if you are trying to be
less overt about having a blade). I wanted to keep this version of the Delta Lock as clean as
possible, so I went with the single position pocket clip. Later versions will have more options.”
HARD USE, NOT ABUSE

I hope you’re not going to be disappointed that I didn’t drop the knife from an airplane and then
run over it with a tank. Nor did I submerse it in the ocean for six months. Anyone can break a knife
and it would prove little.
I tested this knife doing knife tasks. I didn’t use it as a screwdriver or a pry bar. But I used it to open
plastic packaging and to cut cardboard, rope, wood and to puncture an old car tire. Because it wasn’t
hunting season during my review, I had to compromise by trying the blade on a beef steak.
To me, just as important as the blade’s ability to cut and retain its edge is its ergonomics. Does
the grip provide a sufficient secure hold whether my hands are wet or dry and with or without
gloves? Is the grip comfortable during extended use or when applying more muscle in difficult
cuts without creating hot spots or blisters? Does the blade configuration provide the ability to
make a variety of cuts, including slicing, push cuts and draw cuts, and detail cuts?
The GTI Delta Lock Folder checked off all of my requirements and performed well throughout.
The edge was very sharp as it came from the factory. The wide, thick blade provided extra cutting
power when cutting hard material. The grip was comfortable and secure. The flipper doubles as a
finger guard when the blade is open.
› Far right: The knife easily sliced through lengths of rope. At 3 ¼ inches, the blade can handle most
needs you might have for a cutting tool.
› While not one of the author’s usual everyday

tasks, he punctured the sidewall of an old tire
during his testing with the knife.
› Bottom right: The author used the

knife to create a pile of shavings for
fire building. Also shown is the Exotac
NanoSTRIKER XL ferro rod.
BREAKING GLASS
Having the ability to break car window glass easily is always a plus. First responders espe-
cially can appreciate it, whether the need is to extricate an accident victim or to yank an un- KEEPING
IT SHARP
cooperative suspect to justice. But, a glass breaker can come in handy for anyone who wants
a way to get out of a sinking or burning car in a hurry should the doors become jammed.
But is the glass breaker on the GTI Delta Lock Folder all for show or does it really work? I
decided to find out. I went to a local repair garage where the owner had a junked car he was Generally, I touch up the edges of my knives before they get too dull,
willing to let me destroy. With a gloved hand and eye protection in place, I directed a couple using some sort of ceramic sharpener. I especially like the sharpeners
of blows to a lower corner of the front passenger side window. The window’s safety glass that use ceramic rods positioned to maintain a proper sharpening an-
shattered into thousands of pieces. It did take a rather forceful hit; no problem if my life gle. However, my go-to sharpener at home and at deer camp is simply,
depended on it. and don’t laugh please, the slightly rough bottom of my ceramic coffee
mug. A couple of quick strokes with each side of the blade across the
CHOOSE WISELY mug is usually all that’s needed to get my edge back.
To be truly prepared for possible survival situations I might face in both the urban and For a neglected or abused blade, I’ll go to stones, especially Lansky
remote areas, I’d need to carry a backpack full of gear everywhere. Obviously, that’s not sharpeners that also maintain the sharpening angle. The Spyderco
practical. That leaves me with what I can carry in my pockets or on my belt. That pocket space Tri-Angle Sharpmaker includes both ceramic and stone rods. For
is limited. That means I can’t fill those pockets with the type of junk my wife decides to throw inclusion in my daypack, I like the Dual-Knife Sharpener from Victori-
into the seemingly bottomless pit of her handbag. I have to choose wisely. You should too. The nox that includes both a stone and ceramic disks. I’ve carried pocket
GTI Delta Lock Folder is a good choice to occupy some of your valuable pocket space. diamond sharpeners too, such as the Eze-Lap Model M, but if possible,
I’d rather use ceramic sticks. I don’t like carbide sharpeners for a good
‹ One of the author’s favorite sharpening devices is the bottom of his ceramic cof-
quality knife. While they can sharpen a knife quickly, they also tend to
fee mug. Others include (clockwise from bottom left) the Victorinox Dual-Knife
Sharpener; Lansky Sharpening System; Spyderco Tri-Angle Sharpmaker; and remove too much steel.
EZE-Lap Model M diamond rod.

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© GETTY IMAGES
30 AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE [AUGUST

PRIL 2019]
2019]
WHY YOUR CHANCES MAY BE BETTER NEAR
THE OCEAN THAN IN THE HILLS
BY BRIAN M. MORRIS

A
s preppers, when considering
a scenario where all hell
has broken loose and life at
home as we have known it is
over, we all have some sort of
plan to bug out to a safer location. This is one
of the fundamental tenets of anyone who
considers themselves to be a prepper. If you
really think about it, the spectrum of types
of preppers is small unless you are looking
at it from the perspective of “why” they are
prepping.
Other than the threats being prepared for,
preppers have far more in common than not.
The fact is, the “why” really isn’t very import-
ant in the large view. Sure, if the scenario
involves things such as nuclear radiation or
war, for example, there will be certain special
precautions and limitations involved but, at
the end of the day, the desire and ability to
survive are the only things that really matter.
© GETTY IMAGES
We all want to live to see another day. Some
“WITH ALMOST HALF OF THE STATES IN THE U.S. BORDERING

› The National
Oceanic and Atmo- THE ARCTIC, ATLANTIC AND PACIFIC OCEANS AND THE GULF
spheric Administra-
tion (NOAA) cites OF MEXICO, BUGGING OUT TO ONE OF AMERICA’S COASTAL
the official value for
the total length of REGIONS, BEFORE BAD SITUATIONS SERIOUSLY IMPEDE TRAVEL,
the U.S. shoreline at
95,471 miles. IS NEVER MORE THAN A FEW DAYS’ DRIVE.”
© GETTY IMAGES

‹ Left: Federal land such as this area of Acadia
National Park in Maine offers vast areas of
secluded woodlands and coastal shorelines
offering easy access to wild game and fish,
fresh water springs and streams, making it an
ideal bug-out destination. (Photo: National
Park Service)
typical solution of heading for the hills.
THE LURE OF THE SHORE

It is easy to forget, but important to remem-
ber, that Native American tribes were able
to thrive in the coastal regions of the United
States for thousands of years. Tribes such as
the Iroquois, Mohegan, Pequots, Catawba, Ya-
masee, and the Seminole on the East Coast;
the Delaware, Powhatan, Wampanoag, Miami,
Ottawa, and the Chippewa on the Gulf Coast;
and the Chinook, Cowlitz, Nooksack, and
Tlingit on the West Coast lived on the varied
preppers are already homesteaders, and if the

SHTF they plan to just go on living and being
as close to being self-reliant as they can while AMERICA’S
EXPANSIVE
others realize they will need to eventually
uproot and move in order to save themselves
and their loved ones. The more-prepared
folks in this group have already designated a
location to bug out to in the event that they
can no longer remain in their primary location
COASTS
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) cites the total length of the
safely.
U.S. shoreline as 95,471 miles. Of the 23 states that have ocean coastlines, there are more
CREATE BACKUP PLANS than 15 with coastlines exceeding 1,000 miles. Options increase and travel times dramatically
Anyone who wants to be as prepared as pos- decrease if the coasts of the eight states that border the Great Lakes are included. With
sible to protect and provide for themselves almost half of the states in the U.S. bordering the Arctic, Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and the
and their group should always be aware of Gulf of Mexico, bugging out to one of America’s coastal regions, before bad situations seriously
the possibility that their current plans for impede travel, is never more than a few days’ drive.
survival could go sideways in the blink of an
eye. For this reason, you should have a Plan
B, and maybe even a Plan C. So whatever
plans you have for when the defecation hits
the oscillation, you should consider the fact
that they are all completely dependent on
the nature of the emergency at hand and how
it evolves. There is always a chance that, for
whatever reason, your plans will no longer be
viable once the time comes to execute them.
Simply stated, disasters don’t cooperate
› This engraving
with plans. If your primary goal is to hunker from the early 19th
down in an emergency, I urge you to have a century shows
indigenous people
backup plan for bugging out. Furthermore, in Nootka Sound in
not to toss a fly in the ointment, I highly British Columbia
bringing kayaks
recommend you consider relocating to coastal and fishing boats
regions of the United States as your bug-out to shore in front of
large houses built
destination instead of adopting the stereo- with cedar wood.

› Above: Thick trees terrain with its vast and abundant wildlife these events without the luxury of Doppler radar and evacuation via high-speed superhighways.
and brush offer cov- and other natural resources. They did it without NOAA and FEMA or the American Red Cross. You can do it too.
er and concealment
when the needs While it is true that coastal areas are The reason they were able to survive these extreme weather events was they understood how
arises. susceptible to occasional severe weather and to use the terrain to their advantage. Natural land barriers such as reefs, cliffs, and dunes as
hazards that tend to come along with it such well as thick vegetation and inland and intracoastal waterways offer a substantial amount of
as damaging winds and flooding, you also have natural protection. Having an understanding of how to use that terrain for the best chances of
to consider the fact that generations of Native defense against these brutal storms as well as having the skills to build strong shelters were the
Americans were able to remain in place during keys to the Native Americans’ success in living in these regions. If you decide to use the coast as
› Right: Large game

is often quite abun-
dant on federal lands
set aside as safe habi-
tat for them to thrive.
(Photo: National Park
Service)
› Far Right: This in-

land canal in Florida
offers miles of shore-
line where access to
survival essentials is
close at hand.

a bug-out location, it would be prudent for you to research the history and ways of the Native
Americans who lived in the specific coastal region you are considering.
You may be thinking that all the coastal property belongs to private owners and there are sim-
ply not enough places available to go on the coast. While that is correct to an extent, remember
that some of the most pristine coastal land in the country belongs to local, state or federal
government. In fact, according to the Department of the Interior, the federal government alone
owns 402 million acres or 21 percent of the total land area of the continental U.S., excluding
Alaska and Hawaii.
Because much of this federal land either constitutes national parks or is protected land and
estuaries, little is densely populated and it will offer enough natural resources to support your
survival needs in a serious scenario. These areas should be considered viable options when look-
ing for and planning contingency bug-out locations.
GOING OFFSHORE
Another option that you rarely hear people talking about when it comes to bugging out is the
use of a sailboat. With a boat you can reach additional and far more secluded coastlines and
islands than you will by remaining on the mainland. You would also have access to many of the
“THE MORE-PREPARED FOLKS IN THIS

GROUP HAVE ALREADY DESIGNATED A
LOCATION TO BUG OUT TO IN THE EVENT
THAT THEY CAN NO LONGER REMAIN IN
THEIR PRIMARY LOCATION SAFELY.”
‹ Above: If you
choose to bug out
to the southeast-
ern or Gulf coasts,
you will find a
massive amount of
natural resources
in the swamps,
mangroves, and
marshlands that
can benefit you in a
survival situation,
but they do not
come without risk.
These environ-
ments can be quite
unforgiving and,
if you don’t know
what you are doing,
you may find your-
self on something
else’s menu. (Pho-
to: National Park
Service)
‹ Left: This seclud-

ed fishing spot,
near the coast
on the Schoodic
Peninsula in Maine,
could yield some
© GETTY IMAGES
brook trout for
dinner.

› Right: Crustaceans
such as these black
mussels can be
easily harvested on
the beach. Cook well
before eating
› Below: Gopher tor-

toises should never
be harvested for food
unless permitted by
law. That said, in a
survival scenario,
tortoises can give
you a long-lasting
food source either
by harvesting their
eggs or by cooking
the animal for food.
These animals were
put in ships for long
voyages due to their
ability to survive
for months without
food or water, which
gave the sailors the
ability to have fresh
meat over the span
of months at sea.
Service) © GETTY IMAGES
‹ Left: Seaweed is
an excellent food
source to add to
your diet in a coastal
survival scenario.
You should boil it
prior to eating.
© GETTY IMAGES
small and isolated islands along the coast of

the continental U.S. as well as Hawaii and U.S.
territories such as the U.S. Virgin Islands.
If necessary, having a boat also gives you the
ability to leave the United States altogether
and seek refuge elsewhere if the situation
here ever became so grave that you had no
other viable option for safety and security.
While, in theory, going to your bug-out
› Right: The south-
eastern coast of destination by sea seems like a logical idea, it
the United States
is far from without risk. The fact is, the ocean
provides access to an
incredible number is the most unforgiving natural environment
of medicinal plants
anywhere on Earth, and taking to the sea is
such as this Amer-
ican Beautyberry not for the novice sailor or the faint of heart.
that works great as
If you decide to add movement by sea to
a bug repellant and
can be used to treat a reach your bug-out location, it is imperative
number of ailments.
that you hone your seamanship and marine
Service) navigation skills before you leave and you

› Right: Having a
sailboat as part of
your bug-out plan
could be a viable
option but requires
a great deal of skill,
particularly if you
plan to venture on
the open sea.
© GETTY IMAGES
“IT IS EASY TO FORGET, BUT IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER, THAT

NATIVE AMERICAN TRIBES WERE ABLE TO THRIVE IN THE COASTAL
REGIONS OF THE UNITED STATES FOR THOUSANDS OF YEARS.”
‹ Left: If you can
make your way to the
U.S. Virgin Islands,
you will find they
offer a plethora of
sea life and ample
vegetation as well
as secluded parts of
the islands that can
provide security,
early warning and
shelter.
© GETTY IMAGES
› Above: In a
should practice the routes at various times of survive in the mountains by hunting game and gathering food in the wilderness and you really
post-fossil fuel the year, and in the dark, as well. have the appropriate skills and gear then, by all means, stick to your plan.
world, a sailboat
Today, you are the only one who knows But, if, like most people, your abilities to procure food, water and shelter in that environment
could bring you to a
beautiful and boun- what you are capable of doing to keep are not as good as they need to be, or you have doubts about your ability to sustain yourself
tiful refuge, such as
your loved ones safe in a survival situation. in the backcountry, I suggest you consider the coast as a viable option to increase your odds of
this location in the
Caribbean. However, when the time comes and you survival. The relative abundance of natural food resources and potential water sources that
have no choice but to gather your family and coastal regions can offer may make up for a lack of skills.
whatever supplies and gear you can and go, In any case, whatever your contingencies are for a bug-out scenario, chances are that today is
everyone in your group will know the survival not D-Day, so review your options, consider and plan alternatives and put your plans to the test
skills that you truly possess. If you plan to before the SHTF.

MOBILE
MEDICS
THESE FIRST AID KITS TREAT
TROUBLE ON THE TRAIL
Y
BY MICHAEL D’ANGONA
es, water is vitally important,

as is food, shelter, and fire, but,
having all these key survival
pluses means very little if you
are sick, injured or bleeding
profusely from an unexpected mishap.
Accidents do happen while under survival
conditions, and their short- and long-term
effects can be disastrous. That’s why it’s vitally
important to carry a well-stocked first aid kit.
From common bandages, to splints, to burn
gels and over-the-counter medications, the
plethora of kits on the market today, as well as
their diverse contents for both survival and ev-
eryday use are staggering, and that’s why you
need to choose your kits carefully, long before
the time you truly need them.
Long before venturing out, whether by plan
or by force, you need to gather some basic, but
vital information. How many people will be with
you? What terrain will you cross and how long
do you foresee being away from professional
medical aid? Once these and other factors are
considered, your choices for first aid gear will
be much easier to make, allowing you to be
prepared for more bumps, bruises, cuts, sprains
or strains that come your way.

Adventure Medical Kits
Sportsman Series 100
Overview Specifications
Accidents happen, plain and • Waterproof pouch
simple, and if you’re deep in the • Compact and ultra-lightweight
backwoods away from profes- • For 1 to 2-person group size, for 1- to
sional medical service a first aid 4-day use
kit is an absolute must. This first • Includes nearly six-dozen items
level of the Sportsman series • Complete with wilderness first aid
is ideal for one or two people quick guide, edited by Christopher
enjoying a weekend hunting, Van Tilburg, MD
fishing, ATV riding, hiking or
MSRP
exploring unknown territory.
$28.99
Equipped with trauma supplies,
wound care materials, blister URL
prevention and insect bite relief, www.AdventureMedicalKits.com
this kit should not be forgotten
when the adventure bug hits.
Perfect for two people or have
double the items for yourself
when going solo.

The ideal kit for the family when • Integrated external kit map
venturing into the woods to camp • Reflective outer case is easily
or for any environment where med- findable
ical assistance will be far away. This • For up to four people, for 1- to
200 series kit is designed to allow a 4-day use
person to find what they need fast • Easy-Care organizational system
using a convenient organizational allows quick retrieval of neces-
system, as well as having all the sities
must-haves of first aid securely • Ideal for families and small
contained within the easy carry groups
pouch. Quality gear like moleskin,
MSRP
EMT shears, trauma pads, medi-
$39.99
cations and more are plentiful and
within reach when a slip, fall, cut or URL
bruise comes your way. www.AdventureMedicalKits.com

Cuts and scrapes? Covered! • Hospital quality gear and sup-
Bruises, burns and insect bites? plies
Covered! Fractures and penetra- • Injury-specific pockets for quick
tion wounds? Covered! Indeed, access
this kit is exactly what you need • For up to six people, for 1- to
when you’re out deep in the wild 7-day use
with your large family or small • Detachable mini-kit for short
group. Leave your home base or excursions
the security of the campgrounds • Contains the Wilderness & Travel
behind you and feel confident that Medicine guide
the 300 series kit can and will
MSRP
offer you the best first aid with top
$74.99
quality equipment, gear and ac-
cessories. From a reflective master URL
pouch, to the convenient organi- www.AdventureMedicalKits.com
zational system, to an external kit
map, you’ll have critical first aid
materials at your fingertips.

This first aid kit doesn’t pull • For superficial to extremely serious
its punches! It sports enough injuries
high-quality supplies to treat • Find-it-fast design and exceptional
nearly any injury you or your organization system
small group incurs. From • For up to ten people, for 1- to 14-
hospital-grade tourniquets, to day use
wound-stop trauma dressing, • Detachable field trauma kit
basic bandages and medications, • Waterproof and durable outer case
this comprehensive collection
MSRP
of supplies covers the gamut
$124.99
of accidents and injuries. All
items are easy to locate and are URL
ready to treat a victim within www.AdventureMedicalKits.com
seconds…and that’s important
because every second counts!
Weighing only 2.5 pounds means
fatigue-free carry, no matter how
far you travel.

Survive Outdoors Longer
Hybrid 3-in-1 Survival Kit
Perfectly named, the Hybrid 3 is both • Hospital-quality tools
a life-saving survival pack and a well- • Bright, easy-find orange case
stocked first aid kit. On one portion of • Survival and first aid combo kit
the pack, access incredible survival • Detachable pouch for short
gear including signaling devices, trips away from camp
fire-starter, headlamp and more. • Compact
When injuries happen, employ the • Weighs only 18 ounces
opposite side with sterile dressings,
MSRP
adhesive bandages, gauze, forceps,
$60
shears and much more. Medications
for pain, inflammation and common URL
allergies complete this innovative and www.SurviveOutdoorsLonger.
versatile pack. com

Mountain Series Explorer
Don’t even think about venturing • Injury-specific pockets eliminate
into the backwoods with your guesswork
family without the Explorer by your • Semi-transparent, secure pockets
side. This medical kit includes an • For up to four people, for 1- to
abundant supply of first aid supplies 4-day use
useful to treat all the common and • Innovative design allows for addi-
many uncommon accidents that tion of personal items
can occur while out on the trail or • Comprehensive medical guide by
well beyond it. From medications, to Eric A. Weiss, M.D.
wound and burn care, to trauma gear
MSRP
and more, this kit has it all to keep
$59
you moving during your journey.
URL
www.AdventureMedicalKits.com

Lifeline Base Camp First Aid Kit
Need to get patched up in a jiffy and • 171 Items included
back to adventuring? Then this small, • Bright red, easy-to-find bag
yet fully-loaded first aid kit will do • Convenient carrying handle
the trick. Utilizing the “basics” such as • Stores easily when not in
bandages, antibiotic creams, gauze, al- use
cohol pads and more, you’ll be patched • For home, office, or outdoor
up in no time and back on the trail. Use camp
the included first aid booklet for pre-
MSRP
cise, on-the-spot care. The pouch fits
$39.99
easily in a glove box, a vehicle’s trunk,
your master bug-out bag or anywhere URL
first aid may come in handy. A must- www.LifeLineFirstAid.com
have for family campouts.
Sawyer Complete Bite and

Sting Extractor Pump Kit
Nature is filled with all types of • Lightweight, compact and
“nasties”. Snakes, scorpions, bees, reusable
wasps and biting flies can make • Useful for snakes, wasps,
your time in the outdoors pure spiders, scorpion and flies
torture, especially when they feast • Four different-sized cups
on your skin. Luckily, this kit can • Easy to use with only one
lessen their impact. Use the inge- hand
nious suction device to draw out • Included instruction manual
the venom or poison before it hits
MSRP
your bloodstream. Not an alterna-
$17
tive to professional medical care,
but this device can assist while “in URL
the field” until you reach qualified https://Sawyer.com
caregivers.

Sawyer SAM Splint
Sometimes a splint is necessary • Constructed of aluminum and
until proper medical attention is closed cell foam
reached, and that’s the purpose of • Includes one 36-inch splint and
the SAM splint. This assortment two finger splints
includes one large splint for your arm • Splint rolls compactly or folds flat
or leg and two smaller splints that • Lightweight design, only 4.4 total
work ideally for injured fingers. Using ounces
the idea of “structural curves” for • Moldable for greater rigidity
rigidity and stability, you can mold
MSRP
the splint material to fit your specific
$22.99
needs. The package also includes a
training DVD, a gauze roll, and tape URL
strips to make you as comfortable as https://Sawyer.com
possible until help arrives.
me4kidz Mediaid First Aid &

Wellness Kit
With traditional first aid items, plus • Over 100 traditional first aid
essential oils, such as peppermint, items
lavender and germ defense, you’ll • Includes three essential oils
enjoy the benefits of both “worlds” • Neon-green neoprene soft
of wellness all in one soft-shelled touch carrying case
package. All three 3.0 ml essential • Ideal for 1 to 2 persons
oils are combined with all-natural • Perfect for home, office or
coconut oil to produce beneficial vehicle
results straight from Mother Nature
MSRP
herself. The first aid portion of the kit
$14.99
includes such basics as wound care
ointment, bandages, hypo-allergenic URL
tape, gauze pads, and cold packs… www.Me4Kidz.com
all essential for those everyday minor
mishaps around the house or out in
the yard.

Dan Boater First Aid Backpack
You can’t keep medical supplies • Durable, all-weather construction
any closer to you than when hung • Easy-to-find red case
over your shoulders—which makes • Multiple storage compartments
this backpack-style, first aid kit • Space for adding personal items
both unique and extremely useful • First aid informational cards
at the same time. With such varied included
equipment and supplies such
MSRP
as trauma pads, a tourniquet,
$170
irrigation syringes, gauze, a splinter
remover, sting and itch relief and URL
more, you’ll enjoy a stress-free www.DanBoater.org/Travel-Store
time while out on the water. Six
dive safe slates accompany the kit,
useful for important tips and tech-
niques when an accident occurs.
Dan Boater DAN Marine Medkit

Containing such essentials as • Water-resistant pouch
gloves, towelettes, sterile dress- • Clear storage compartments for
ings, bandages and more, this ma- easy viewing
rine-based kit offers water-resis- • Easy-to-locate, red color outer shell
tance, see-through containment • Durable, all-weather handle
pockets and a sturdy outer shell • Easy accessibility to all items
and handle for on-the-spot relief
MSRP
of minor mishaps while out on
$34
the water. If professional medical
personnel are miles away, you’ll URL
have peace of mind that first aid www.DanBoater.org/Travel-Store
is nearby and fully-equipped to do
the job, if and when it’s needed.

Dan Boater Grab & Go Boater Kit
Just as the name implies, this • Small and easy to stow
mini-marine kit is ready whenever • Includes first aid basics
it’s time for you to hit the waves. • Zippered clamshell design
Designed to be a great addition to • Dual see-through mesh pockets
any vessel on the water with all the • Ideal for short trips
basics needed as you get bumped
MSRP
around, scratched, bruised or cut
$20
while traversing the unpredictable
seas. Two easy-to-see view pockets URL
allow fast access to gear, while the www.DanBoater.org/Travel-Store
hard clamshell design will stand
up to year after year of repeated
outdoor use.
UST Brands Watertight

First Aid Kit 1.0
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a • Water-resistant protective case
smaller and more complete first • 23 pieces of first aid items
aid kit on the market today. This • Constructed of high-impact
micro-kit has nearly two dozen items translucent plastic
inside to treat minor scratches, • Easy-to-find red color
stings, and abrasions commonly • Includes lanyard and carabiner
incurred when outside exploring,
MSRP
adventuring or hiking through the wil-
$6.99
derness. Best of all this little number
weighs in at only 3.5 ounces, so you’ll URL
hardly notice it at all as it hangs from www.USTBrands.com
your pack or belt loop. A durable out-
er shell and O-ring keep the contents
dry and clean and it’s easily refillable
when needed.

WORLD GONE SILENT HAS A NEW AND
EASY SOLUTION!
BY JIM JEFFRIES

A
mateur radio (ham) oper- › Right: Many of the
email procedures
ators have many modes of used in ham radio
operation available to them: are complex and
sometimes require
voice is the most common, extensive training
followed by several digital and coordination.
Amateur Radio
types that encode voice and data, and finally Clubs normally
Morse code. They just need the right gear to hold training
sessions to teach
match the mode. emergency com-
Hams generally are restricted to conversing munications teams
how to work togeth-
only with other licensed operators on amateur er. Formal training
frequencies. This can present a problem when such as this is not
necessary with the
you need to communicate with family or group WGS EMAIL WITH
members who are not licensed or don’t have HAM RADIO kits.
access to their radio and, due to the situation,
“HAMS HAVE BEEN SENDING AND RECEIVING

WINLINK EMAIL THROUGH THEIR RADIOS FOR
DECADES—EVEN BEFORE THE INTERNET
GLOBAL RADIO WAS COMMONPLACE—FOR EMERGENCY
AND CASUAL CONVERSATIONS.”
EMAIL SYSTEM all you have available is your amateur radio. Although FCC regulations prohibit non-licensed per-
sons from transmitting on amateur frequencies (except in life-or-death emergencies), reaching
The Winlink Global Radio Email system is a hybrid email service those you need using ham radio is as easy as sending an email.
created by and for amateur radio operators. Due to the sys- Hams have been sending and receiving email through their radios for decades—even before the
tem’s ability to work with or without Internet connectivity, it is a Internet was commonplace—for emergency and casual conversations. By interfacing a computer
tremendous benefit to emergency response and disaster recovery to their transceiver, they can send messages over the airwaves without any reliance on a local
communications, as exhibited during the recovery efforts following connection to land-based infrastructure. Today, much of this email is sent through the Winlink
the devastating hurricanes that struck Puerto Rico in 2017. Massive Global Radio Email system (see sidebar). In the past, the gear to do this was often expensive,
amounts of information, much of it sensitive in nature, was and the task of putting it all together and making it work required a high level of expertise.
conveyed back and forth, without any physical connection to the Fortunately, times have changed.
US mainland, in the form of email originating from ham stations Chandler Friedman, founder and owner of World Gone Silent (WGS), recognized the need for
on the island to emergency coordinators and relief agencies in the a simplified and cost-effective solution to provide even inexperienced radio operators with the
United States. ability to send and receive email. Through extensive research and testing, Chandler developed
Winlink supports different modes of operation including conven- kits that can do this and more: introducing World Gone Silent’s Email with Ham Radio Kit.
tional Internet-based traffic (telnet); peer-to-peer (P2P) for direct The Email with Ham Radio Kit is available in two versions: a VHF kit, which includes a portable
radio-to-radio messages; and radio only, wherein messages are
stored at one primary (and one alternate, if desired) radio station
for pickup.
In their own words, Winlink is “a worldwide radio email service
that uses radio pathways where the Internet is not present, and
is capable of operating completely without the Internet—auto-
matically--using smart-network radio relays. Winlink provides its
users email with attachments, position reporting, weather and
information bulletins, and is well-known for its role in emergency
and disaster relief communications.
“Licensed Winlink operators/stations use both amateur radio and
government radio frequencies worldwide. The system is built,
operated and administered entirely by licensed volunteers. Support
for the system is provided by the Amateur Radio Safety Founda-
tion, Inc., a US 501(c)(3) non-profit, public-benefit entity. Winlink
Global Radio Email® is a US registered trademark of the Amateur
Radio Safety Foundation, Inc.”
URL: www.Winlink.org

transceiver, computer-to-radio interface with required cables, and an instruction booklet; and THE WGS EMAIL WITH HAM RADIO ‹ Above, left: The VHF
kit connected to a
an HF kit, designed as an optional add-on for the WGS Portable HF Pack, which comes with a VHF KIT portable computer,
computer-to-radio interface, cables, and instructions (Portable HF Pack available separately.) At the heart of the kit is the Yaesu FT-60 ready to send email or
text messages.
A computer (not included) is required to send and receive messages through the Winlink Global Dual-Band (VHF/UHF) Handheld Transceiver
Radio Email system. Chandler sent both kits to evaluate for this review. (HT). The FT-60 has been in production for ‹ Above, right: The
Yaesu FT-60R made its
These kits operate on amateur frequencies, so an FCC-issued ham radio license is required. quite some time and remains one of the most debut in 2004, and is
You must have a valid call sign to set up the email application and use the Winlink Global Radio recommended handheld radios on the market. still in production with
no end in sight. This
Email system. If you are not already a licensed ham, don’t worry; a prepaid subscription to the Built to withstand the rough handling and highly-rated handheld
Ham Test Online study course (www.HamRadioLicenseExam.com) is included in the VHF kit. extreme conditions that often occur in emer- transceiver is superbly
designed, ruggedly
Vouchers are included in the WGS HF Pack for the general class license. gency situations, it is a top pick for search and built, and very easy to
operate.
‹ Left: Testing the

EMAIL WITH HAM
RADIO VHF kit
in the field with a
Microsoft Surface
running Windows
10. With these kits,
you can send and
receive email and
text messages
from just about
anywhere.
‹ Left, bottom:
Using the EMAIL
WITH HAM RADIO
VHF kit mobile.

‹ Left: Radio on and
software running,
stations can be
left unattended
and connected to
peer-to-peer (P2P)
to exchange email
messages. This frees
the operator to do
other tasks and not
worry about missing
important commu-
nications.
‹ Below: The EMAIL

WITH HAM RADIO
kit connected to the
Yaesu FT-857D found
in the WGS Portable
HF Pack. Email
and text messages
were sent through a
Winlink station over
1,000 miles away
on HF, and VHF con-
nections locally and
through Digipeaters.
rescue teams and disaster response personnel.

Yaesu FT-60 Specifications
• Receive range: 108-137 MHz (Air Band); 137-
520 MHz (AM/FM); 700-999 MHz (FM)
• Transmit bands: 2 meters, 144-148 MHz
(FM); 70 centimeters, 430-450 MHz (FM)
• Selectable transmit power: 5 watts high; 2
watts mid; 0.5 watts low (approximate)
• Antenna connection: SMA
• Battery: 7.2 V/1400 mAh nickel-metal
hydride battery pack with drop-in overnight
charging cradle (Charging cradle and AC
adapter not shown in photo.)
The computer-to-transceiver interface is a
SignaLink USB made by Tigertronics. Connect-
ed between the computer and the radio, it
passes audio signals back and forth and con-
trols the transmit (PTT) function of the HT.
As explained in the instruction booklet, a
magnetic compass is included for the purpose
of ensuring the path between stations is not
obstructed by buildings or terrain.
The kit is contained in a well-constructed
MOLLE-compatible pouch with zipper closure,
and it can be attached to a pack or vest or
worn on a belt. The VHF kit measures approxi-
mately 7 inches wide, 5 inches tall, by 3 inches
thick and weighs in at about 1½ pounds. The

‹ Amateur Radio operators use voice, digital
modes and email to pass information. Gear
can be complex and require a strong skill set.
U.S. Army MARS operators, all licensed hams,
like AAT3OT pictured here, carry out critical
communications in support of military and
disaster response missions. Photo by KB3JUV,
Wikipedia commons
that, you can refer to the manufacturer’s user

manual, which is also included. As mentioned,
there are some software applications that
must be downloaded and installed from the
Internet (all are free). Web addresses and
installation steps are contained in the WGS
instruction booklet.
SETTING UP AND TESTING

My experience with the process would give
me an unfair advantage, so I enlisted one of
the members of my group for this test; she
holds an amateur technician license but was
HF kit is the same size but a bit lighter since no radio is included. not familiar with the hardware or the steps
Though not included, a computer running Microsoft Windows version 7 or higher, with an avail- involved. As she followed the instructions,
able USB port, is needed. An Internet connection is required to download and install software downloaded and installed the software, and
including Winlink Express (the email client), and for updates in the future. The hardware require- assembled the gear, I took notes. Within a few
‹ Below: Add email
ments are not very demanding, and most any PC should work. For portability, choose a laptop, minutes, she was on the air.
and text message ca-
notebook or tablet PC. (Mac and Linux operating systems are not officially supported.) pability to the Yaesu Creating email and text messages in Winlink
FT-8900 contained
The WGS instruction booklet, created by Chandler, guides you through every step. The booklet Express is similar to any other email applica-
in the WGS Repeater
is very well written and does not contain a bunch of eye-crossing technical jargon. If you need Pack with the HF kit. tion, but there are additional steps to perform

“ALTHOUGH FCC REGULATIONS PROHIBIT
NON-LICENSED PERSONS FROM
TRANSMITTING ON AMATEUR FREQUENCIES
(EXCEPT IN LIFE-OR-DEATH EMERGENCIES),
REACHING THOSE YOU NEED USING HAM
RADIO IS AS EASY AS SENDING AN EMAIL.”
WORLD
GONE SILENT
World Gone Silent, founded by Chandler Friedman and based in Los
Angeles, specializes in emergency communications. Every kit includes
an expertly written instruction booklet to create an easy-to-use, rapidly
deployable solution for most any emergency communications scenario.
Chandler also assists individuals in developing customized communica-
tions plans.
Chandler, W2NP, is Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
certified and has been involved with the Amateur Radio Emergency
Service (ARES) in Los Angeles. Before moving to the West Coast, he
was the emergency coordinator for ARES in Atlanta. The knowledge
and experience he has gained by being an active member in emergency
communications means he knows what works and what doesn’t during
a disaster.
in the path, direct communications may not be possible. One solution is to move to a higher location
Whether you are just starting out, or wishing to add a new layer of ca-
to clear possible obstacles or to connect an antenna mounted at a higher elevation.
pabilities, WGS has the gear and advice you need. Visit the WGS website
Another method of increasing the range of the kit is through the use of a digipeater (short for
(www.WorldGoneSilent.com) for informative articles and
digital repeater). Winlink supports this type of operation and, it is how we ultimately connected to
videos on emergency communications topics, and to check
the other station.
out the growing list of products and services offered.
We also tested peer-to-peer messaging, where one radio calls the other and exchanges email
directly. This worked very well and proved to be extremely effective for longer distances when con-
necting through digipeaters.
WGS Email with Ham Radio Add-on for the HF Pack
before messages can be sent. After the radio is › The WGS EMAIL
WITH HAM
connected and turned on, it must be tuned to RADIO kit fits in a
one of the frequencies specified in the Winlink MOLLE-Compatible
pouch and weighs
Express channel selection table. This table is about 1 ½ pounds.
based upon location information you entered
while setting up the application. Location can
be manually changed as needed. The list of
available Winlink stations can change over time,
so update the database as often as practical,
but don’t wait till disaster strikes! Some of
these steps may seem complicated, but by
following Chandler’s instruction booklet it is a
simple task.
On our first test the receiving station was
› Right: The World
24 miles away, but with a high ridge in that Gone Silent EMAIL
direction (as determined by the kit’s compass), WITH HAM RADIO
VHF Kit includes
the stations wouldn’t connect. VHF is good for everything needed
line of sight, meaning the radio’s antennas must to send email and
text messages over
be able to “see” each other. If the distance is too the air from your
great or if there are terrain features such as hills existing computer.

“THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THE WGS INSTRUCTION
BOOKLET CAN SAVE YOU MANY HOURS OF FRUSTRATION
COMPARED TO TRYING TO DO THIS ON YOUR OWN.”
The interface and cables in the HF kit are configured for the Yaesu FT-857D, which is the radio Please keep in mind someone using a cellphone ‹ Email and text mes-
sages can be sent from
contained in the WGS Portable HF Pack. Since the FT-857D covers HF and VHF, we tested the kit to receive and reply to email and texts that come
anyone to your station
both with local stations on VHF, and with stations greater than 1,000 miles away on HF. In all tests, through the Winlink Global Radio Email system through the Winlink
Global Radio Email
the Email with Ham Radio Kit performed flawlessly. By the way, the Yaesu FT-8900 featured in the must still have normal cell or Internet service
system. U.S. Navy Pho-
World Gone Silent Repeater Pack uses the same interface cable as the FT-857D, so we tried the HF on their end. Winlink provides a gateway to the to by Mass Communi-
cation Specialist 3rd
kit with it and, not surprisingly, it worked perfectly sending and receiving email and texts over VHF. Internet for remote stations operating over the
Class Dana D. Legg/
airwaves; your radio is not talking directly to Released. DVIDS
SUMMING UP their phone.
Testing was performed with various computers, including an older laptop running Microsoft Windows Email and text messaging provide a way to
7, and on a newer Microsoft Windows 10 Surface tablet. Following Chandler’s instructions, installation communicate with family and group members
of the hardware and software was trouble-free, even for a first-time user. The information contained who do not have access to radio equipment. The S O U R C E S
in the WGS instruction booklet can save you many hours of frustration compared to trying to do this messages can be archived and referred to later,
on your own. so important information remains accurate. World Gone Silent
(770) 765-2976
The kits were tested inside the home, portable in the field, and mobile from within our vehicles. Since Winlink Global Radio Email is a highly resilient www.WorldGoneSilent.com
Winlink estimates the direction and distance to stations in its database based on the location entered system and is available to all ham radio opera- VHF Kit with Yaesu FT-60
MSRP: $549
during setup, the estimates become invalid when moving very far from that spot, but this really only tors. The WGS Email with Ham Radio Kits make
affects line-of-sight VHF operation (terrain and distance have much less effect on HF signals). To it possible to add this potent capability to your HF Kit for the Portable HF
Pack
overcome this issue, you should know what Winlink stations are reachable along your path and from preparedness communications plan simply and MSRP: $359
your destination, which should be part of your operations and communications plans already. cost effectively.

FIND EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO
SURVIVE AT THE SEASHORE
BY BRIAN M. MORRIS
© GETTY IMAGES

I
f popular culture had any truth to it, you might think that there was no fate worse than that
of being “stranded” on an isolated island or remote coastal shoreline. Well, contrary to pop-
ular belief, anyplace where the ocean and land make contact in this world, with the possible
exception of resort areas, tends to be teeming with life and natural resources; making them
an ideal location to find everything that you could possibly need to stay alive, so long as you
know where to find it.
FOOD
In most of the coastal areas on Earth, food should be abundant and readily available to catch or
forage so long as you know where to look and what to look for. Fish, crustaceans, and a plethora of
other plant and animal life can all be found in most of the coastal regions around the globe.
Before you eat anything, it is imperative to first know that the food you are eating is safe. The best
way to assure this is to apply the Universal Edibility Test before eating anything you can’t positively
identify as being safe to eat.
CAUTION: Verification that a potential food item is edible by humans does not come from obser-
vations of wildlife eating the item and having no negative effects. Many animals have immunities
to poisons and other toxins, making them impervious to food dangers that would sicken or kill
humans. Please see page 63 to learn more about the Universal Edibility Test.
FINDING FOOD ON THE COAST

Finding food on the coast should be relatively easy to do compared to more desolate environ-
ments you could find yourself in. Plant life is normally abundant, and there are many types of
seaweed and other flora that you can harvest for food in coastal regions and along the seashore.
There are also a variety of animals living in these areas that can be caught or collected for food in a
survival situation.
Clams, limpets, mollusks, mussels, octopuses, sea slugs, sea snails, and squids are all edible. In
“IN MOST OF THE COASTAL AREAS ON

EARTH, FOOD SHOULD BE ABUNDANT AND
READILY AVAILABLE TO CATCH OR FORAGE
SO LONG AS YOU KNOW WHERE TO LOOK
AND WHAT TO LOOK FOR.”
© GETTY IMAGES
‹ Freshly harvested clams can be prepared several ways but probably shouldn’t be eaten raw.

a coastal survival scenario, you should be able › All day, every
day, seashores and
to find all the protein needed to survive in the coastal estuaries
shellfish you are able to find on the beach. can provide the
survivalist with an
WARNINGS: BEWARE OF “RED TIDES” AS abundant source of
THEY HAVE BEEN KNOWN TO MAKE MOL- food with the lowest
investment of ener-
LUSKS TOXIC AND INEDIBLE. gy compared with
AVOID THE CONE SHELL. ANY SHELLFISH virtually any other
wilderness environ-
THAT IS THE SHAPE OF AN ICE CREAM CONE ment. (Photo: Chris
SHOULD BE AVOIDED. SOME CONE SHELLS Goldblatt)
CAN BE VERY POISONOUS AND EVEN DEADLY.

THESE SHELLFISH HAVE A HOOKED BARB
THAT THEY USE TO CATCH THEIR PREY.
In a survival situation, it is perfectly OK to eat
worms as a food source. To do so, try placing
them in a vessel containing fresh water first.
This will cause them to purge all the soil and
sediment they are holding inside and make the
experience of eating them far more bearable.
Another great use for worms is to act as bait for
fishing.
Arrow worms (not a true worm) live in the
sand and can be found on the coast on beaches
and near waterways. If you are lucky enough to
find an Arrow worm while digging in the sand,
you will find that it is quite tasty and can be
eaten raw, cooked, or dried in the sun.
CRABS, LOBSTERS, AND › Right: Vegetation

that can provide
BARNACLES
food, fuel for fire,
These animals are seldom dangerous to man and wood for shelter
can often be found
and are an excellent food source. The pincers of
on the water’s banks
larger crabs or lobsters can crush a man’s finger. in many coastal
regions around the
Many species have spines on their shells, making
globe. (Photo: Chris
it preferable to wear gloves when catching Goldblatt)
‹ Far left: Driftwood

can be excellent to
use as the frame-
work for a survival
shelter or to burn in
a fire. (Photo: Chris
Goldblatt)
‹ You need look

no further than the
mud at your feet
when searching for
protein-rich shell fish
and worms to provide
you with lifesaving
nutrients that do not
require any advanced
skill or a great deal
of energy to harvest.
(Photo: Chris Gold-
blatt)

‹ Many of the birds
you will find in
“FINDING FOOD ON
coastal regions are
edible, but they can
THE COAST SHOULD
be challenging to
catch. From a sur-
BE RELATIVELY EASY
vival perspective,
since many coastal
TO DO COMPARED
birds nest on the
ground, you may
TO MORE DESOLATE
find it far easier
and less physically
ENVIRONMENTS
taxing to simply
locate their nests
YOU COULD FIND
and harvest their
eggs. (Photo: Chris
YOURSELF IN.”
Goldblatt)
FINDING AND PURIFYING WATER

Inner coastal waterways and coastal marsh-
lands contain brackish water with salt contents
that are still too high for safe human consump-
© GETTY IMAGES
tion. Luckily, fresh water can usually be found
them. Barnacles can cause scrapes or cuts and are difficult to detach from their anchor, but they’re quite easily near coastal areas. Look for fresh
worth the effort. Sea urchins are also a good source of food, however you should take care to remove water streams, brooks, or tributaries that are
all of their spines before eating. Sea cucumbers can be eaten whole after you gut them as long as fed by underground springs and aquifers or from
you either cook them over a fire or smoke them first. Take caution not to step on sea urchin spines as high mountain snow melt. Even though this
they can easily pierce the skin and inflict a painful injury that could become infected. type of water may seem pure, you should still
decontaminate it before drinking it if you have
WATER the chance in order to kill any microorganisms or
‹ Below left: Low
When it comes to survival, few things are as vital to human life as water. With over 75 percent of tide is one of the other contaminants that could still be present.
the human body being made up of water-based fluids, your ability to stay alive is directly related best times to forage The only water that you can drink immediately
for food in coastal
to your ability to consume potable water. Even under the most ideal conditions, your body needs a areas as much of after harvesting it is rainwater, unless it came
minimum of 2 liters of water each day for it to maintain function. Extreme conditions such as heat, the plant and ani- into contact with building structures or unclean
mal life that spend
cold, and excessive physical exertion contribute to an accelerated loss of these vital fluids and add to most of their time containers.
the total amount of water you will need to take in each day to stay sufficiently hydrated. underwater will
become accessible
Before you start considering the different ways to procure water, you may want to start by simply to the hungry sur- DECONTAMINATING WATER
looking for something to hold the water in. With 10 billion to 20 billion pounds of plastic waste vivor for an easy There are many methods that you can use to
meal. (Photo: Chris
ending up in our oceans each year, chances are pretty good that no matter what beach or coastal Goldblatt) decontaminate water to make sure it’s safe to
environment you find yourself in you won’t need to look very far to find an old plastic water bottle. drink. Here are a few of the most widely used
Another successful technique used by indigenous coastal people throughout the world is the use of ‹ Below right: Sea techniques:
bamboo sections to store and boil water in. If you can’t find a traditional container, then consider cucumbers can be • Boil
found on the sea
using an absorbent material such as a cloth or a piece of your clothing to sop up the water and then floor worldwide. • Distill
wring it out over your mouth. Bear in mind that drinking seawater is very dangerous as it will cause They are quite slow • Filter
and easy to harvest
extreme dehydration and could lead to death. once identified. • Treat with UV light device
© GETTY IMAGES © GETTY IMAGES

‹ Far left: A dotted
sea slug slowly
makes its way along
the ocean floor.
‹ Left: Sea snails often

wash up on the shore
at low tide and re-
main in shallow pools
until the tide comes
back in, making them
extremely easy to
© GETTY IMAGES © GETTY IMAGES harvest.
› Right: An Ameri-
• Apply solar water disinfection (SODIS) can slipper limpet
• Use disinfectant tablets shell on a beach
with acorn barna-
• Bleach cles growing on it.
In a survival situation you may not have all
of the equipment needed to efficiently purify
water and make it safe to drink. During these
extreme scenarios, it may be necessary for you
to improvise or fabricate a water purification
system in order to stay alive. Here are a few
systems you can try that do not require any
specialized gear.
› Below: Tubeworms
should not be eaten
ABOVE-GROUND STILL
because they are
To make an above-ground still, you need sun- toxic to humans.
They can be easily
light, a hill slope, a clear plastic bag, leafy green
identified by their
vegetation and a small stone. Open the bag sharp-edged tubes.
wide by scooping air into it. Then fill the bag to about three-quarters with leafy green vegetation. Be
very careful not to puncture the plastic bag. Do not put any poisonous vegetation in the bag, or there
is a good chance that your water will be contaminated and not safe to drink
Remove as many sticks and twigs from the leaves as you can before putting the leaves in the bag.
Place a small rock in the bottom corner of the bag in order to guide condensation to the bottom of
the bag. Finally, if you have a straw or a hollow reed you can put it into the bag with one end down
by the rock and the other end coming out of the top. Plug the end of the straw so as not to allow air
to escape.
Seal the bag with as much air inside the bag as you can get and then lay the bag on the side of the
hill getting the most direct sunlight and wait. As the sun heats the bag, the moisture in the leaves
will be drawn out in the form of pure water and drip down the sides of the bag, puddling in the
corner where the stone is. When you are ready to harvest the water, simply open and drain the bag,
or unplug the straw and allow the water to drain out from it.
BELOW-GROUND STILL
To make a below-ground still, you need a digging tool, a container, a clear plastic sheet, a drink-
ing tube, and a rock. Locate your still where you suspect the sand or soil holds lots of moisture,
such as a dry stream bed, and where it will receive plenty of sunlight.
Dig a bowl-shaped hole about 3 feet across, tapering down to about 18 inches deep. Place a cup
or other container to catch water in the center of the hole and then cover the hole completely
with the clear plastic. Loosely weigh down the edges of the plastic and then place the rock in the
© GETTY IMAGES
center of the plastic, above the cup.

THE UNIVERSAL EDIBILITY TEST
• Amount of time needed to conduct test: About 25 hours 5. LICK
• Prior to conducting this test, abstain from eating any food for at least 8 hours. Place the item on your tongue and do not chew or swallow it. Keep it there for
• Divide the plant into like parts. at least 15 minutes. If you feel any burning, stinging or any other discomfort, spit
- Leaves it out immediately and discontinue the test of that item.
- Stems 6. DIP
- Roots Thoroughly chew the item being tested and place the wad of material between
- Buds your lower lip and gum (like a dip of chewing tobacco). Keep it there for 15
- Flowers minutes. If you feel any discomfort to your skin or in your stomach discontinue
• You MUST only test one part at a time, and the results of the test will only the test.
apply to the part of the plant that you tested. Obviously, as in the previous steps, if you experience any adverse reactions,
• If the sample passes a test step, move on to the next. cease the test and clear your mouth completely of any residual materials.
7. SWALLOW
1. SMELL Move the food material from your gum line and swallow it.
Smell the potential food source. If you notice a strong, foul or acidic odor, dis- 8. WAIT
continue the test and assume the item to be unsafe for humans. After swallowing the test material, you should wait 8 hours to see if it causes
2. FEEL you any discomfort, such as stomach pain, skin irritation or nausea. If you experi-
Place the potential food item on a sensitive area of your skin, such as the inside ence any of these signs, you should immediately begin to induce vomiting and
of your wrist or between your forearm and bicep. Before doing this, squeeze it drink plenty of water.
between two fingers or mash it with a rock to release some of the inner fluid. 9. SAMPLE
Leave the sample there for at least 15 minutes. If you feel pain or discomfort or Take ¼ cup of the same item tested and prepared in the same manner as before
see irritation, stop testing that part and consider it inedible. and eat it. If you detect any adverse reactions, immediately induce vomiting and
3. PREPARE drink plenty of water.
Prepare the section of food you are testing the way you plan to eat it. The best 10. WAIT
way to do this would be to boil it but if this is not practical, you can cook it over a Wait an additional 8 hours to see if you have any of the aforementioned reac-
direct fire, dry it in the sun, or, in a worst-case situation, eat it raw. tions or ill effects from the test item.
4. KISS 11. MANGIA!
Squeeze the sample to release its natural juices then hold it against the outside At this point, as long as you showed no signs of distress from any part of the
of your lip for 3 minutes to see if you feel burning or itching. If you do, discard the test (other than hunger pangs), then you can assume that the portion of food
sample and do not eat it. that you tested is safe for consumption.”
Before the plastic touches the cup, secure the Compared to virtually any other environment on Earth, coastal regions can provide some of the
entire circumference of the plastic sheet with most abundant and accessible natural resources available to support life and boost your chances
rocks, sand or other weighted materials that of thriving in the wild. Not only is there normally an ample supply of shellfish and other animal
will keep it from moving. As the sun heats up and plant life available throughout the entire year, there is generally no shortage of driftwood
the still, fresh water will evaporate from the and other useful debris to support shelter-building, fire making, signaling and a host of other
ground and condense on the underside of the survival applications.
plastic sheet. Eventually, the beads of water All these positive attributes don’t come without a downside. Besides the obvious risks such as
will run down the plastic sheet toward the tsunamis, floods and hurricanes; there are plenty of less-publicized but dangerous risk factors
rock then drip directly into the collection cup. that should be considered. Treacherous rip tides and undertows, toxic fish, venomous snakes,
As with the above-ground still, if you have alligators or hungry sharks are just a few of the ever-present coastal dangers that you should be
access to a long straw or hollow reed, you aware of.
can run it from the bottom of the cup to the All things considered, there are not many survival scenarios that humans can’t endure when we
outside of the still to allow you constant put our minds to it. Armed with the power of knowledge and fueled by the will to survive, you will
access to the drinking water without the need have more than a fighting chance of making it out alive from a coastal survival scenario as long
to disassemble the still. as you never quit and you never lose faith in yourself.

HOW TO PLAN FOR AND DEAL
WITH POST-DISASTER URBAN LIFE
BY JONATHAN KILBURN
© GETTY IMAGES

› Near right: suburban areas do offer more cov-
erage and space compared to urban. However,
staying out of sight can be equally as difficult.
A
fter several major world
events in the last few
decades, it seems like more
people are becoming aware of
the need for a survival plan.
Hurricanes, tsunamis, fires, and even civil un-
rest all remain likely possibilities in nearly every
part of the world. However, urban environ-
ments offer unique and daunting challenges › Above right: When
when it comes to survival.
bugging out, regular HAVING A SINGULAR BASE OF OPERATIONS
The idea of being trapped is not something
transportation
routes might be (COMMAND) WHICH IS WELL-STOCKED
that anyone enjoys thinking about. Howev-
compromised.
While railroad
AND EASILY DEFENDABLE IS A MAJOR
er, catastrophic disasters can trap even the tracks can be a good
alternative there
ACHIEVEMENT BUT, BEFORE DISASTER
best-prepared person in a hostile and treacher- will still be dangers STRIKES, IT’S NOT A BAD IDEA TO PLAN FOR
ous environment. Anyone could devote years
preparing the perfect bug-out plan only to
like these homes
which overlook the CONTINGENCIES.
tracks. If someone is
squeeze everything in their car and get trapped watching they have large emergencies than other areas. Staying in a city during times of adversity can be a difficult en-
an excellent vantage
in never-ending traffic after an earthquake. point.
deavor. The main problem is the lack of local sustenance resources. Everything a city dweller needs
Bugging out is not always a possibility. to survive must be shipped in from other areas and those resources are finite, especially if the
disaster cripples transportation systems. While shelter-building supplies are likely to be common
DANGERS OF AN URBAN CLIMATE and can be utilized for fortification and fire preparation, there isn’t much else a city offers. Once all
Cities experience a unique set of issues that of these supplies are gone there is no way to resupply other than to prey upon weaker survivors.
make them more likely to be dangerous during Another significant hurdle is population. The presence of more desperate people results in a

loss of social decorum, leading to riots, mob
mentality and increased chances of innocent
people being victimized. As resources start to
run low, people inherently turn on one another
in a search for essential goods. From the World
War Two Siege of Leningrad to Hurricane Ka-
trina, history demonstrates multiple examples
of this betrayal of the human condition.
TYPES OF DISASTER AFTERMATH

AND CORRESPONDING ACTIONS
AND SUPPLIES
There are three time periods when aftermath
will affect an individual or a community. While
there may be some overlap among them,
these periods will see an increase of aggres-
sion as well as potential risk in the community.
No matter what kind of lasting effects a
disaster will have, the steps in dealing with
the aftermath remain the same.
TEMPORARY/SHORT-TERM longer than short term. These disasters can bring neighbors closer together or make them begin ‹ Above left: With
many people living in
A type of aftermath which almost everyone to plan what items to steal. apartment complexes
has experienced is temporary/short-term. or condos it will be
hard to avoid everyone
Most disasters experienced in first-world TEMPORARY/LONG-TERM nearby. One can never
countries have thus far been temporary Arguably, the most damaging type of aftermath is when the standstill of ordinary life lasts go wrong with having
a plan in place when
although some of their effects have lasted several weeks or months. Major catastrophes, civil unrest, war and other issues contribute to entering or leaving a
building which may
have a bottleneck.
‹ Above right: Keep a de-

cent vantage point clear
of all obstacles. When
the area begins to look
rundown, so should
your vantage point.
Make it a point to have
your space blend into
your environment.
‹ Opposite page:
With homes so close
together it’s import-
ant to know who is
friendly and who
is not. Operational
Security is a must
when analyzing and
establishing friendly
contacts.
‹ Left: Populated
areas offer a lot
of places rich in
resources. After
some time, every
resource will become
scavenged through
theft, looting, and
destruction.

this type of long-term aftermath. Those who
were friendly at the beginning of a disaster
may turn on each other as soon as their
COMMUNICATIONS
stomach begins to growl.
PERMANENT
Even many who designate themselves
as preppers lack preparations for a lasting
Communication is a key to success but delivering the plan is only the first step. The second
change following a disaster. This type of
involves communicating the need and process for acting on contingencies. Hobo signals
aftermath may not last forever but will cause
have been used for generations to communicate good and bad areas, directions, and
lasting effects for the rest of their lives on the
campsites. As technology has advanced, a team can communicate through simple two-way
people who survive. The Dust Bowl and Great
radios from companies like Midland, and these radios can be utilized to inform others a
Depression had long-lasting effects, some of
considerable distance away about potential concerns. The ability to communicate does
which still ripple through the country today.
not need to cost a lot but it’s advisable to test radio performance in urban settings prior to
Along with three types of disasters, there
needing them in an emergency.
are also three main areas everyone should
plan for when preparing and moving in these
environments.
› Right: Pre-loaded
medical kits and
emergency packs
are great options for
a vehicle. If some-
one needs to seek
emergency shelter,
they have everything
necessary for a few
days.
GENERAL SUPPLIES ‹ Above: Radio com-

munications can be
This includes food, water, and medicine. shelter-, vehicle-,
It’s probably the most important part of any or operator-based.
They don’t have
preparation and what nearly all self-pro- to be secure but at
claimed preppers focus on. This will determine least an established
code of communica-
the amount of time someone is able to stay tions should be put
in one place without needing to resupply or into practice.
restock goods. Having something on hand is
essential for longevity if items are not readily
available.
MOVEMENT
Gray man, communication, and navigation
skills are instrumental. They come into play
when trying to scavenge more supplies, keep
others aware of potential dangers and find
your way back to a safe location. While each of ‹ Left: Water purifi-
these can be independent of the others, they cation and medical
supplies should be
may be just as easily intertwined. the center of some-
one’s kit following
a disaster. Not only
DEFENSE is this type of kit
Firearms, firearm accessories, and perime- excellent for home
preparedness but it
ter-building supplies are needed to defend will all fit in an old
family. Many put defense and general supplies bucket and can be
carried in the back of
along an equivalent level of importance. a vehicle every day.

› Right: Concealable pistols are an excellent
carry choice. Non-lethal options are also a pos-
sibility during the beginning of any disaster.
Left to right: SS80 G43, Taser Pulse, and G19
clone by Polymer80 and 5D tactical.
However, if other areas are well-planned, the

need for force should be limited and the focus
can be on evasion.
HOW TO PREPARE/WHAT PROVI-

SIONS TO HAVE
Preparation is going to be completely
subjective and depends on available resources
(financial and natural), skills and room. Room
is finite in urban environments and storing
goods is a difficult task when real estate is at
a premium. However, the first step should be for fallback and bugging out in the event of a problem with your primary location or a secondary
to create plans for general supplies, move- disaster. They can also be used to keep overstock or less-essential provisions.
ment – or lack thereof, and defense. When scouting for optimal locations, visit them at multiple times over multiple days. There may
Having a singular base of operations not be any movement during the day but, as night hits, signs of activity may become observable.
‹ Below: Bug-out kit
(Command) which is well-stocked and Supply Secondaries with mainstays of water, food, medicine, and weapons but expect a high
components are subjec-
easily defendable is a major achievement but, tive and still follow the likelihood of them being found unless you do a superior job of concealing them. You will need all
Five C’s of survival. (cut-
before disaster strikes, it’s not a bad idea to the provisions to keep yourself alive, healthy, and defend what is yours.
ting tool, combustion
plan for contingencies. Search for back-up device, cover, cordage
and container) Carrying
(Secondary) locations that are not far from MOVEMENT WHEN NECESSARY
all necessary supplies is
your Command location. These can be used an absolute possibility. Arriving at or leaving from a safe location may be necessary. It’s important to stay well-stocked
on provisions and be able to find your way back to your Command while traveling on the road.
There are several ways that you can move while remaining unseen, or at least remain forgettable.
Gray man skills are essential to survival. Stay to the shadows, only move when necessary,
change up your look constantly but always blend in with those around you. It sounds very simple
but it is far from easy. From every item of clothing you wear to how clean you look will impact
how well people notice and remember you. When others have gone two weeks without shower-
ing, a clean-shaven person will stand out in a crowd. Know your environment.
Likewise, it’s critical to navigate through hostile crowds by being like them. This may mean
leaving the tactical three-day pack, which will draw attention, at a contingency location and
reclaiming it later. Possessing the proper weapons to remain discreet is part of the gray man skill
set. Walking though lower Manhattan with an AK will draw attention.
Any movement should have a purpose, and staying in touch with others in your party is going
to help everyone avoid unnecessary risk. Remaining connected through motioned signals, radios,
and drawings can increase the likelihood of everyone staying safe. Small radio communications
are great for short range and can be the factor that may help team members avoid a mob.
DEFENDING WHAT’S YOURS

Your defense plan is threefold: Personal defense, group defense, and location defense. Your
location can be outfitted with tripwire systems for early warnings. Every group member should
know the locations of these systems and the one way in or out of a shelter to avoid setting them
off. The downside is that once the perimeter is tripped it’s time to relocate.
Second to a perimeter is sensory warnings (sights and sounds) which are combined with
AS A GROUP GAINS EXPERIENCE WITH

MOVES AND PLANS, THE PROCESS
BECOMES EASIER. THE UNKNOWN IS
ALWAYS FRIGHTENING, BUT SOMETIMES
THE KNOWN TRAGEDIES AND OBSTACLES
HOLD MORE FEAR THAN GAMBLING ON
THE UNKNOWN.

› Near right: Glock
Store’s SS80 frame
is a Glock 43 clone.
A single stack pistol
which can easily be
concealed. Small-
framed people
should have no
problem being able
to easily grip, fire,
and conceal this
firearm.
weaponry. Weaponry could be anything from ‹ Above, left: Shel-

ters can be made in
a sharpened nail to a .308 hunting rifle. Use local wooded areas
what’s available in your defense. easily. Choose the
color of your tarp
Personal and group defense rely not merely based on whether
on gray man skills in public, but also weap- you want it to be
seen or blend into
onry. Urban combat has typically been within the environment.
200 yards. While knives are a significant
weapon and deterrent, common firearm cali-
ber types, which should be easier to scavenge
for, offer the best option for these defensive
weapons. 5.56/.223, .30-30, 7.62x51/.308,
9mm, .380, .45, 12 gauge and several others
are those most likely to be found in urban
environments.
It's not hard to plan your “armory” before di-
saster strikes. Purchasing the proper firearms
and optics for hunting can translate over to
home defense in a disaster situation. There is
no need to plan and stock unnecessary goods
and items when the most effective options are
also the most common. Being able to utilize
a tool, like a firearm, in multiple applications
› Above: Blending into the environment will reduce the amount of attention gained. The author
uses a 5.11 Tactical Sierra soft shell jacket with an easy conceal carry pocket to safely traverse the
Big Apple despite having a backpack, which stands out from the local crowd.
reduces cost and increases effectiveness.
BUG-OUT?
If you’re asking this question and have many supplies, the answer is no. A bug-out is not a guar-
antee of safety but puts identical problems and obstacles into a new environment. If gray man
skills, communication, and secondary locations are used effectively, bugging out can become a
› Above: Tripwire systems can be an early warning alert that can be set gradual and progressive process. Each secondary location can transport you a bit closer to the
up in almost any building. Used in an apartment or office building, they
are loud enough to be heard within a decent area. exterior of a metropolitan area. As you find new secure areas, moving supplies and rehoming

› Above: The larger 12-gauge perimeter alarm from PyroCreations can be
set up with a standard shotgun shell (not recommended) or empty shells
which can be packed with pepper or other distractions to give the user
time to evade any intruders.
Command is possible.
MAKE EVERY SHOT COUNT

As a group gains experience with moves and plans, the process
becomes easier. The unknown is always frightening, but sometimes
the known tragedies and obstacles hold more fear than gambling on
the unknown. When supplies are still readily available and everyone is
relatively safe, bugging out should remain the last option. Even when
bugging out, lacking the proper skills to defend yourself, regardless of
your location, will keep you vulnerable no matter where you are.
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CONCLUSION www.hiperfire.com 651.762.2800 @HighPerformanceFirearms
Many people already have some essentials in place but it’s good
practice to continually add to your supply of the basics. In the event of
a significant disaster with an extended aftermath, it’s often the best
choice to hunker down and lay low for a period of time. Once supplies
or patience run low, danger is soon to follow. Establishing a plan now
will prevent being caught off-guard in the future. Secondary locations,
scavenging techniques, deployable gray man skills, situational aware-
ness and good communication will keep many safe when others find
themselves in danger. Even if nothing happens, you’ll still be one step
ahead of everyone around you.
Follow us on
www.facebook.com/
americansurvivalguidemagazine
› Above: No matter how many firearms someone owns, being able to

instagram: ASGMAGAZINE
maintain, clean, and properly care for them is paramount. A firearm is
a tool which needs to be properly maintained in order to be used for
protection.
BANGAROUNDTHEBUSHWITHOUTBREAKINGTHEBANK
BY MIKE TRAVIS

B
› Right: With a ushcraft. For me, the word
Bushbaby HC and a
quality ferro rod in conjures images of Ray Mears
hand, fire is never setting up camp in the forests
far away.
of England, on the lake shores
of Canada or along the fjords of
Norway. I see visions of canoes laden with can-
vas packs and an elaborately built bush camp,
with axes and knives shimmering in the light of
a campfire. I can almost smell the wood smoke
as I type these words...
The word bushcraft has become heavily
romanticized and is often associated with ex-
pensive gear and skills that can, to some, seem
mystical and, to many, seem unattainable.
However, bushcraft is not about expensive
gear or exotic locations. Bushcraft is using and
making tools to create the things needed to live
comfortably in a natural environment. Knowl-
edge is the most important thing to possess and
far outweighs fancy gear and exotic locales.
With enough knowledge of skills and natural
resources, it is possible to go out onto the land
and make everything you need using nothing
but your hands and the tools you pick up and
create along the way. However, most people
involved in bushcrafting will agree that there
are three basic tools that will make life in the
wilds much easier. A good knife, a saw and a
› Below: The Bush- chopping tool. I rarely go to the woods without
baby HC comes
some version of these three tools.
with a distinguished
family history. It is Type “bushcraft knife, saw or axe” into a
shown here with
search engine and you will be met with a diz-
the larger legendary
L.T. Wright Genesis. zying array of choices. These implements can
cost anywhere from $15 to $1,500 each and can

be purchased everywhere from big box stores to
custom craftsmen.
For this article we will assemble a solid
bushcraft kit that will be functional, versatile,
won’t break the bank and instill some pride of
ownership in the user. All the tools chosen cost
under $100 each. They are all made by reputa-
ble manufacturers and have withstood the test
of time and use.
THE KNIFE
Custom knife maker L. T. Wright is known
for his high quality custom and semi-cus-
tom knives. L. T. uses premium materials to
produce knives designed to serve hunters
and outdoorsmen under the most demand-
ing of circumstances. His knives have proven
themselves time and time again with a variety
of participants on the History Channel Show
“Alone”. Unfortunately for those on a budget,
the materials and level of craftsmanship in L.

‹ Left: The L.T. Wright Knives Bushbaby HC is
as handsome as it is useful.
L.T. Wright Handcrafted

Knives Bushbaby HC
SPECIFICATIONS:
• Overall length: 6 ¾ inches
• Blade steel: 3/32-inch 1075 high carbon
• Grind: Full flat with a convex edge
• Handle: Natural canvas Micarta
• 2-step blade patina for rust prevention
• Alloy lanyard hole
• Fish-eye bolts and marine-grade epoxy
MSRP: $55 without sheath; $85 with

leather sheath
THE WORD › Right: The knife’s

small size, comfort-
BUSHCRAFT HAS able grip, and excel-

lent blade geometry
BECOME HEAVILY means that fine

carving tasks are not
ROMANTICIZED a problem.
AND IS OFTEN
ASSOCIATED
WITH EXPENSIVE
GEAR AND SKILLS
THAT CAN, TO
SOME, SEEM
MYSTICAL AND,
TO MANY, SEEM
UNATTAINABLE.
T. Wright’s premium line come at a price. That
said, you definitely get what you pay for.
L. T. Wright recognized that the price of entry
for custom craftsmanship was too high for
many and decided to do something about it.
L. T. created the Bushcrafter HC and Bushbaby
HC. These knives maintain the same level of
performance and service in the field as his
higher priced knives but are constructed with
materials that help to keep the costs at a
minimum.
For this project I chose the Bushbaby HC. I › Right: The leather
sheath gives the
wanted a belt knife that would be small, light-
owner the option to
weight and nimble. I love large knives, but, for carry it high, directly
on the belt or lower,
many bushcraft tasks, they can be cumbersome.
using the included
Smaller knives excel at many of the common dangler.

› Silky saws come in all
shapes and sizes. From
top to bottom: Big Boy,
Gomboy, Super Accel,
Pocketboy
› Middle right: Silky bushcraft tasks. A small knife is also easier

saw blades are built
with a spine that is for beginners to use when learning their initial
narrower than the skill set.
teeth. This helps to
promote smooth The Bushbaby HC is a full tang knife made
cutting and prevent from 1075 high carbon steel. It features a flat
binding.
ground 3-inch blade, and a contoured Micarta
handle that fills my hand well despite its small
size. The steel is expertly heat treated and given
a two-part patina to help resist corrosion.
The optional sheath is made from high quality
leather. It includes a ferro rod loop and a dangler
to drop the sheath below bulky clothing or the
hip belt of a pack.
The knife alone only costs $55.00! Adding the
sheath (which I highly recommend) only adds
$30 to the package.
Despite its small size and price tag, the
Bushbaby HC is a solid performer. The thin blade
stock coupled with the full flat grind ensures
that the cutting performance is outstanding.
The drop point design and the centered tip
make this a very intuitive knife to use. The
steel might not hold an edge as long as some
of the steels used in the premium line, but
it still holds an edge well and is very easy to
touch up in the field.
THE CHOPPER
When people think of a trio of bushcraft
cutting tools, the axe is the first chopping tool
› Bottom right: The
Bushbaby HC is a nat- that typically comes to mind. An axe is an
ural when it comes
outstanding tool to have in the woods. In some
to making feather
sticks. environments, a case can be made that an axe

‹ Left: In the author's experience, Silky saws
are able to effectively cut wood that would
choke and bind lesser saws.
Silky Saws Gomboy 210

SPECIFICATIONS:
• Blade steel: 1.2mm SK4 high carbon
• Teeth per inch: 8.5
• Handle: Rubber
• Weight: 8.8 ounces
• Carry case is included
MSRP: $43.99
is more valuable than a knife. advantage of the thinner grind found near the
For our kit, my goal was to achieve maximum versatility while not being intimidating for the begin- ricasso. I have used my Skrama to chop down
ner. To serve that end, I replaced the traditional axe with the Terava Skrama Bush Knife. The Skrama trees, baton wood for a fire, build shelters,
is a tool that I have personally relied on for years. It is tough, versatile, easy to use and falls within our carve trap triggers and make feather sticks. It
sub-$100 budget. has never let me down.
The Skrama was designed in Finland by a former Finnish soldier and is manufactured by Lauren
Metalli, Finland's leading knife blade manufacturer. It was designed to be a viable “one tool option”. THE SAW
The Skrama is patterned after the ancient Seax design. It is a full tang design with a comfortable, As far as this author is concerned, there is
multi-position rubber over-molded handle. The 9.5-inch blade is made of 80crV2 high carbon steel only one saw manufacturer that I consider
and incorporates two grind angles to allow it to be equally adept at heavy chopping and fine cutting when heading to the woods. Silky saws have
work. The Skrama does an outstanding job when building shelters and preparing firewood. Its been designed and manufactured in Ono,
multi-position handle combined with its edge geometry make the Skrama an extremely good Japan since the early 1900s. I’ve tried a lot of
chopping tool. That same handle allows the user to get their hand close to the edge to take saws from a variety of manufacturers and none
› Bottom right: There

are few wood pro-
cessing chores that
can’t be handled by
these two tools.

› Even larger pieces of wood are no
challenge for the Skrama.
Terava Skrama Bush Knife

SPECIFICATIONS:
• Overall length: 16.9 inches
• Blade length: 9.4 inches
• Blade width: 1.8 inches
• Steel: 0.17-inch 80CrV2
• Hardness: 59HRC
• Handle: Rubber overmolded
MSRP: $60.99 with plastic sheath;

$87.99 with leather sheath
of them come close to the performance of a ‹ Left: The Skrama is

designed to be able to
Silky saw. baton through wood.
Silky produces a wide array of saws, from
pocket-sized folding saws to large fixed blade
designs. Their saw blades are differentially
tempered which allow them to be flexible
while still having extremely sharp, durable
teeth.
Silky saws cut on the pull stroke only and
are hands down the quickest, most efficient
saws I’ve ever used. I have used their larger
models to cut down large trees and buck them
up for firewood and I regularly use several of
their smaller saws for a wide variety of tasks.
The Silky saw is the reason I am comfortable
leaving my axe at home and taking a large
chopping knife in its place.
Their saws start at about $25 and go up from
there. They may be a little more expensive
than the folding saws available at most hard- ‹ Below, left: Need to
get to the center of a
ware stores, but they are still very affordable. log? The Skrama has
When their performance is taken into consider- you covered.
ation, the choice becomes obvious.
CONCLUSION
The goal of this article wasn’t to tell you
what you must buy or use to be an effective
bushcrafter. Its aim is to provide you with
affordable tool options that will provide S O U R C E S
maximum versatility while serving the needs
L. T. Wright Knives
of both the beginner and the seasoned (740) 317-1404
woodsman. You can certainly spend less www.LTWrightKnives.com
money and get similar performance from your Silky Saws
tools. However, these tools are not disposable (866) 345-2468
www.SilkySaws.com
junk with a short service life. When properly
cared for, they will last you a lifetime and are Varusteleka Army
and Outdoor Store
tools that you will be proud to pass on to your www.Varusteleka.com
children.

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DIFFERENT ENVIRONMENTS
DEMAND DIFFERENT
SURVIVALKITS.
Y JIM COBB

T
he story goes that there were
two cousins, a town mouse and
a country mouse. The details
change with the telling but es-
sentially the town mouse goes
to visit his rural cousin and finds the lifestyle
there isn’t to his liking. He doesn’t much care
for the food and the quiet, Spartan existence.
He implores his country cousin to come with
him to the city.
His country counterpart soon comes to visit
and, wouldn’t you know it, he finds that the
fast-paced urban environment isn’t for him.
Far too much going on that could lead to his
demise and he prefers his simpler existence.
The fable’s moral is usually said to be that it
is better to be poor but secure than rich but
living in fear.
However, there’s another angle at work here.
Had the country mouse been a little better
prepared, he may have enjoyed his visit to the
big city a bit more. And if the town mouse
knew ahead of time what he was getting into, › Above: Money and one with a wilderness emphasis. Bear in mind that there truly is no one size fits all solution
talks and it’ll
he might have realized the value in a quiet get you out of
when it comes to survival prepping. Every kit is going to be a little bit different. They should
afternoon spent with a good friend. innumerable sticky each reflect the user’s skills and experience while also remaining well within the budget.
situations.
The mission defines the gear and the work-
ing environment is an important factor. While URBAN SURVIVAL KIT
there are many similarities between urban and This may sound anticlimactic but the most powerful tools in your urban survival kit are your
rural survival planning, each area of operation wallet and your cell phone. Cash or a credit card can solve an awful lot of problems that don’t
has specific unique qualities that must be quite rise to the “end of the world” level.
taken into account. Car breaks down? Call a tow and an Uber.
We’re going to look at putting together two Emergency evacuation due to a building fire, chemical spill, or civil unrest? Get a motel room
basic survival kits, one with an urban focus and grab take-out along the way.
‹ Far left: Lock pick-

ing might sound like
a sketchy skill set but
if you’re locked out
of where you need
to go, it’ll come in
handy.
‹ Near left: When you

absolutely need to
get a fire going, not
much beats a dispos-
© GETTY IMAGES
able lighter.

© GETTY IMAGES
An encrypted or password-protected ‹ Left: Carrying a
firearm for defense
thumb drive containing scans of important brings a host of re-
documents and such can be a great tool sponsibility. Seek out
the proper training
during the rebuilding phase of a disaster. and education.
Having immediate access to your insurance
paperwork, copies of your identification, even
reasonably current photos of your family
members may all be important.
While we often think of water filtration in a
wilderness setting, having a small filter in an
urban setting is also important. Many experi-
enced travelers will tell you that drinking tap
water in a new city is truly rolling the dice. A
small filter like the Sawyer MINI is a powerful
tool in any survival kit.
If you pay attention while walking through
an urban area, you may notice that many
buildings have outdoor faucets but they lack
handles. A sillcock key will allow you to open
those faucets and fill your water container.
They are available in most hardware and
home improvement stores.
SOME PEOPLE DON’T HAVE TO THINK Every survival kit should have a cutting tool.
LONG. THEIR “PLAN A,” WHICH HAS BEEN An urban setting might dictate something
CEMENTED FOR YEARS, IS TO GRAB on the smaller side, though, such as a good
‹ Below: This urban
quality folding knife that easily fits into a back alley requires a
THEIR BUG-OUT BAG AND HEAD FOR THE pocket. Many restaurants and other busi- flashlight and defense
weapon far more than a
WILDERNESS. nesses in the city might frown upon seeing a compass or fire starter.
© GETTY IMAGES

‹ Left: A wallet with
cash and a credit card
will save the day in
almost any typical
urban or suburban
emergency.
© GETTY IMAGES
› Near right: Para-

cord bracelets are
great but make sure
you know how to
untie them properly.
© GETTY IMAGES
large fixed blade knife hanging off your belt. ‹ Above: A small
A pocket flashlight is something that, once selection of pocket
flashlights. Top to
you start carrying it, you’ll wonder how you bottom: Stream-
lived without it. Look for something that has light ProTac 1AAA,
ThruNite 1A V3, and
variable output as not every use will require UST SplashFlash.
a blinding light. As should be obvious, the
brighter the light, the more battery energy it
will consume.
Should you find yourself needing to flee an
area quickly in an urban setting, there are a
few tools that might come in handy. A small
pry bar can be used to open doors and win-
dows, though obviously not without causing
some degree of damage. Conversely, it could
also be used to delay a pursuer by wedging
it between the door and the frame, thereby
jamming the door. Not a perfect solution but
‹ Left:Maps and com-
if seconds count, it could make a difference. passes go together
If a more subtle approach is needed, a set of like peanut butter
and jelly. Know how
lock picks might be the way to go. Basic lock to use them together
© GETTY IMAGES
picking isn’t difficult to learn and picks can be for the best impact.

purchased online without any sort of license
or certification required. However, be sure to
METHODS OF CARRYING
research your local laws as such items may be
considered burglary tools and possession of
KIT ITEMS
them may lead to unpleasantness if they are
found by the authorities.
A small spool or hank of cordage is very use-
ful. Paracord is sort of traditional but Kevlar
cord is thinner and is durable enough to be There are a couple of different layers to consider when it comes to carrying survival equipment. The first is against
used to saw through plastic pipe, should that your skin, such as a neck knife and a paracord bracelet. These are things that, even if you somehow lost the clothes
need arise. It works just like a flexible cable on your back, you’d still have available to you.
saw, just wrap it around a couple of makeshift Next is on your body. Here, we’re talking about things you can keep in your pockets, like a folding knife or a dispos-
handles and pull it back and forth across the able lighter, as well as belt-worn items like pouches or a fixed blade knife.
pipe. Of course, depending on the size of your The third layer consists of what you can carry, like a backpack or a sling bag. More and more people are using back-
kit, you could always carry both paracord and packs as EDC bags to carry their work equipment, such as a laptop. While this gives you the opportunity load up a fair
Kevlar cord. amount of survival gear as well, do not overlook the other layers available to you. Redundancy is important when it
In a city, the largest threat to your safety is comes to survival planning.
going to be other people. If you are legally
allowed to carry a defense weapon, seek out
the proper training for the weapon of your can lead to hypothermia and other dangers in just a matter of hours.
choice. In an urban area, a handgun is typical- Keep in mind, you shouldn’t be preparing for situations that turn out to be a walk in the park.
ly the recommended weapon. It is easier to You should be thinking “worst case scenario”. With that in mind, one of the primary compo-
conceal than a rifle or other firearm and, let’s nents of your wilderness survival kit should be, at the minimum, a good quality emergency
face it, if you walk into a conference room for blanket. In addition, a compact fire starting kit is just common sense. This should include a
the Monday staff meeting carrying your AR couple of disposable lighters, as well as another ignition source like a ferrocerium rod, along
rifle, it is probably going to raise an eyebrow. with a supply of tinder.
In addition to a handgun, you might consider Cordage is also useful when it comes to erecting some sort of shelter during an unexpected
pepper spray, a slungshot, or another less than overnight in the field. As with the urban kit, paracord is one of the most common selections
lethal option.
Lastly, a small first aid kit, including an easily WATER PRE-FILTER – YOUR WATER FILTER WORKS
accessible tourniquet, coupled with the train- BETTER AND LONGER IF YOU CAN REMOVE THE
ing on how to use the items properly. You are SEDIMENT, BUGS, AND OTHER FLOATING GOODIES. ‹ A water source in the
your own first responder. Learn how to stop RUN THE WATER THROUGH THE COTTON FABRIC wild can be a godsend,
if you have the means
the bleed and save a life. FIRST TO TRAP WHAT YOU CAN. to collect and filter it.
WILDERNESS SURVIVAL KIT

Signaling gear should be a top priority for
your survival kit. Select multiple methods
to help searchers find you. A loud whistle
is cheap insurance. The sound of a whistle
will carry much further than that of a human
voice, especially in wooded terrain. In addi-
tion, a signal mirror can be used to catch the
attention of search planes. For night signal-
ing, an activated Cyalume SnapLight can be
tied to a short length of cord, then spun in a
circle to create a large glowing signal for help.
While we’re talking about signaling for help,
a portable charger for your cell phone might
be all it takes to help rescuers find you, if you
can pull up your GPS coordinates using the
phone and communicate them by call or text.
The first threat we need to address is a lack
of shelter. On a mild evening, say about 72 de-
grees (F) with clear skies, shelter and warmth
aren’t likely to be problems. But, in inclement
weather or at other times of year, this could
be a serious issue. Exposure to the elements © GETTY IMAGES

‹ Near left: Excellent
fixed blades for the
wilderness survival
kit. Top to bottom:
Bark River Knives
Fox River EXT-1,
Nordsmith Knives
Lapwing, Craig
Schneider Trades-
man.
› Above: The Vehe- and it will suffice in most situations. However,

ment Spike, a col-
laboration between tarred bank line or Kevlar cord might also be
Vehement Knives added to the kit. While it is certainly possible
and Kopis Designs,
is a very handy tool to weave your own cordage from material
and easily slips into a found in the wild, from plant fibers to plastic
pocket.
trash, you might find it easier to just toss a
hank or two of paracord into your kit.
Next on the list of threats is dehydration.
While the vaunted Rule of Three states that
› Right, top: Stan- you can survive upwards of three days without
dard pocket EDC
includes Rite in the water, that can be dramatically reduced in
Rain notepad, Tuff warm weather, with exertion, or coupled with
Writer pen, a durable
multi-output other factors. A small water filter, such as
flashlight, and a a Sawyer MINI, combined with a container
small Bic lighter.
RESOURCE
CONSERVATION
Any time you venture into the field, you do so with a limited
amount of supplies. Do what you can to extend what you’ve
brought by making use of natural materials you can scrounge.
For example, keep a couple of empty zippered plastic storage
bags in your wilderness kit. As you come across plant fluff and
other types of natural tinder, fill a bag and close it up. Should
you need to make a fire later, use that material and save the
tinder from your kit until a time when you don’t have another
option available.
The edge on your cutting tool is a perishable resource. When
possible, break sticks by wedging them between two trees and
pulling rather than using your knife to cut them. Save the edge
for jobs where it is truly needed. That said, wearing a leather belt
and knowing how to properly strop a knife to touch up the edge
is also wise. © GETTY IMAGES
‹ Above: A disposable lighter is cheap insurance in a survival kit. But, pack back-up fire starters as well.

KEEP IN MIND, YOU SHOULDN’T BE PREPARING FOR
SITUATIONS THAT TURN OUT TO BE A WALK IN THE PARK. YOU
SHOULD BE THINKING “WORST CASE SCENARIO”.
© GETTY IMAGES
© GETTY IMAGES
in which you can carry water will go a long be much good to you. On the other hand, knowing where you are but being unable to find the ‹ Above: Cash is
nothing more than
way toward keeping you hydrated. Drinking direction in which you need to go for safety is equally problematic. expensive tinder
untreated water from a wild source can lead A commonly heard piece of advice is to stock your survival kit with multi-purpose items as this when you hit the trail.
Uber doesn’t come
to stomach upset, which in turn can cause will keep the weight down. This practice can be somewhat debatable as many multi-purpose out this way.
further dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea. tools might do a lot of things but can’t do a lot of them very well. However, the shemagh is a
For a cutting tool, a sturdy fixed blade knife great addition to the survival kit as it weighs nearly nothing but can perform many functions:
is a better option than a folder for use in the Extra clothing layer – It can be tied around the head or neck to help keep you warm.
wilderness. It need not be so large it inspires Water pre-filter – Your water filter works better and longer if you can remove the sediment, bugs,
jealousy in Rambo or Crocodile Dundee. A and other floating goodies. Run the water through the cotton fabric first to trap what you can.
four-inch blade will suffice for just about any Defense – In a pinch, you can put a rock into the shemagh and swing it around to strike someone
routine chore. Make sure it has a sheath that or something.
will keep it secure. A folding knife in your Bindle – If you’re foraging, you can use the shemagh as a small pouch. Simply place your wild
pocket can serve as a backup, just in case. edibles in the middle of the scarf, then draw up the corners to carry it.
A compass and a map of the area could turn A compact first aid kit is always a good idea. If you are injured out in the field,
out to be very useful, provided you know how Every survival kit should be unique and suited not just for the user but for the environment.
to use them together. If you cannot find your While many of the items in a wilderness kit can be used in an urban area and vice versa, having
current location on the map, it isn’t going to the right gear for the job is always a good plan.

PREPPER PLANT ADVISOR
THE STINGING
HAS A MULTIT
BY CHRISTOPHER NYERGES
Name: Stinging Nettle to store the plant is to dry the entire plant (in the sun or an electric dryer). When
(Urtica dioica) ready to use, the dried leaves can be crumbled and stems removed. The dry leaf is
then added to soups, or stews, or made into tea.
Stinging nettle is a member of the Nettle family, which includes about 700 species
found worldwide. The genus Urtica has 45 members, and most are very similar to NUTRITION: The USDA database shows that 100 grams (slightly more than a cup)
the stinging nettle described here. of blanched nettles contains 65 calories, 5.5 grams of protein, 481 mg of calcium, 71
mg of phosphorus, 1.64 mg of iron, 334 mg of potassium, 57 mg of magnesium, 76 mg
Description of vitamin C, and 2,011 IU of Vitamin A.
This annual plant typically arises in the spring after the rains and as the snow
thaws. It produces a single stalk that can reach up to several feet tall. The leaves MEDICINE: Nettles are popular as a tea, made by infusing, for diarrhea, menstrual
are oblong with toothed margins and taper to a point. cramps, and colds. The tea is popular with people suffering from allergies and hay
The entire plant, leaves and stalk, are covered with hairs that will cause a stinging fever, and is suggested for prostate problems.
irritation if you brush up against them. The tops of the leaves have a shiny appear- There are anecdotal reports that suggest the use of nettle tea helps to keep the
ance. vascular system healthy, and could actually prevent heart attacks if used regularly.
(As with all serious medical issues, you need to consult with your doctor).
Areas Found
Though this European native does best around wet and riparian areas, it can be OTHER USES: Nettle stalks are a long-time source of fiber, used for making cloth
commonly found in wilderness areas, gardens, backyards, and in farm lands. This and fabrics in Scotland and other European countries. In a survival setting, you could
plant can be found in almost all 50 states and Canadian provinces. take the mature nettle stalks, soak or wash them to extract just the fibers, and work
them into usable cordage by twining or braiding.
When To Harvest/Availability
Harvest the leaves and tender tips for food as early as possible, which would be in Advice For Growing
the spring while the plant is still young. You can harvest just the leaves of the older Nettles are extremely easy to grow. If they do not grow in your yard, you can collect
plant later in the year, but they are tougher. If you’re using it for a tea, you can har- some seed from the wild, or purchase some seed from a seed catalog. Then, once the
vest at any time, and dry the entire plant. If you’re gathering it for fiber, you should nettle plant matures, it will re-seed itself year after year. It prefers some shade in the
cut the stalks when they are fully mature, typically late summer. garden, and does best in rich soils. As you harvest nettle leaves during the growing
season, only pick the tender tips, and do not uproot the plant. This will prolong the
Uses plant’s growing season.
FOOD: Nettles have served countless generations for food when nothing else was
available. The tender tops and leaves are cooked and used in every dish like you’d Cautions
use spinach. They can be eaten simply steamed or boiled, and then seasoned. (Also Remember, this plant is called “stinging” nettles. When you brush up against the
drink that water! It’s delicious). The greens can also be added to any soup dishes, plant, you break off the little hairs, which release formic acid, and that acid is what
egg dishes, casseroles, stir fries, etc. causes the stinging on your skin. Be careful when you’re around nettles, and wear
Fresh nettle can be collected and blanched, and frozen for later use. Another way gloves when you collect any parts of the plant.

‹ Below: This hearty nettle cream
soup will hit the spot on a cold day.
(Getty Images)
First, rinse and steam the nettle tops. Melt the butter in your pot and add a little milk. (You can
substitute water for the milk if you wish). Slowly add the potato flour, stirring as you go. Add the
nettles, and enough milk (or water) to make a soup of the thickness you desire. Add the bay leaf,
and let simmer for 15 minutes. Do not boil.
About ASG’s Plant Advisor

Christopher Nyerges has been teaching ethnobotany since 1974. He is the author of Guide to Wild
Foods and Useful Plants and other books on the uses of wild plants. Nyerges has contributed
many articles to American Survival Guide on a wide range of topics.
WWW.SCHOOLOFSELF-RELIANCE.COM.
› Far right: Ryan Swank examines the hairs on the

stinging nettle plant which can cause discomfort
when they come in contact with your skin.
› Near right: During one of

the author’s workshops,
nettles are being prepared
for cooking.
› Bottom right: Young nettle plants shown

growing in the wild.

FOUR TOOLS TO KEEP YOUR EDGES SHARP, AND
THEN SOME!
BY REUBEN BOLIEU
S
mith’s has been a trusted name in the stone company to their current position as the market
sharpening business since 1886. Through- leader in the knife and scissor sharpening category, Smith's
out their history, they’ve been focused on has become the fastest growing, full line supplier of
a single mission: provide customers with great sharpening products. Their simple goal is to provide
the best value in easy-to-use, effective consumers with the best edge for whatever task they are
sharpening and specialty tool products. Smith’s contin- performing.
ued focus on this mission has led them to be one of the They have the broadest line of knife and scissors sharp-
leaders in the manufacture and distribution of manual eners available, ranging from simple fixed-angle pull-
sharpening products. through sharpeners for consumers who want quick and
I frequently visit with Smith’s at trade shows whenever easy sharpening, to sophisticated precision kits designed
I can get to them. They always seem to set the tone for the knife sharpening enthusiast. Their offerings include
among their peers, mixing sharpening tools with survival both manual and electrical sharpeners that incorporate
implements. Their iconic Pocket Pal and Pocket Pal X2 many different abrasive materials including diamond, car-
have, in my opinion, changed the game for those who bide, ceramic, bonded synthetic abrasives and, of course,
carry a variety of knives and want to keep them sharp natural Arkansas stones.
with one sharpener.
Sticking with their tradition of being responsive to their PACK PAL TINDER MAKER
customers’ needs, Smith’s has created two products that The Smith's Pack Pal Tinder Maker with Fire Starter is a
may have a significant impact on the way people look at lightweight compact camping tool that makes tinder from
their sharpening tools. dry wood in minutes. This model features a stainless steel
grater, a yellow synthetic tinder box, and a fire starter/
SMITH’S AT A GLANCE striker with lanyard that stores inside the tinder box when
From their humble beginnings as a small Arkansas not in use. A nylon cord connects the fire starter and box

S O U R C E
Smith’s Consumer Products
(800) 221-4156
www.SmithsProducts.com

‹ Below: Smith’s Pack Pal Tinder Maker
alongside the Axe & Machete Sharpener.
Two very useful, yet different products
from Smith’s Sharpening.
via a lanyard loop.

At first sight, this looked both gimmicky and cheap to me. The bright yellow box, with red fer-
rocerium rod, looks like a toy to most. In fact, the colors are not only the same as most of Smith’s
products but, from an outdoors perspective, they are possibly the smartest colors for outdoors
gear, because they can be seen!
The most unusual feature is the small grater, which is meant to process wood down to small
shavings for igniting with the supplied ferrocerium rod. On another note, the end user can use
whatever they want to ignite the tinder once it is shaved with the grater. The whole affair is quite
simple. The stainless steel grater acts as a common, mini cheese grater. It feels like the same
thickness as one too. Soft wood and fatwood are easily grated into the rectangular box, where
‹ Far left: The lean-to fire in the background was

started with fatwood shavings processed by the
Smith's Pack Pal Tinder Maker
‹ Near left: On the camp kitchen side of

things, the small stainless steel grater
worked well with cheese and garlic.
Other vegetables or lemon peels (zest)
can also be used.
‹ Bottom left: The author is about to

ignite a pile of fatwood shavings. The
ferrocerium rod is drawn back against
the V-shaped striker for maximum
sparking potential.

he Smith's Pack Pal
with Fire Starter is
aping wood to make
shavings. The author
h of fatwood to get the
gs shown collected in
ox.
Pack Pal Tinder Maker

Specifications
ight: Wearing gloves for safety, the • Dimensions: 3.65x1.53x1.02 inches
rubs a piece of wood against the • Weight: 1.1 ounces
o produce fire-friendly bits of tinder. • Fire starter with striker attached
• Stainless steel grating blade
• Fire starter and striker store in box when
TICKING WITH THEIR TRADITION OF not in use
ING RESPONSIVE TO THEIR CUSTOMERS’ • Nylon cord connects fire starter and box
• Lanyard loop
EEDS, SMITH’S HAS CREATED TWO MSRP: $11.99
RODUCTS THAT MAY HAVE A SIGNIFICANT
MPACT ON THE WAY PEOPLE LOOK AT
HEIR SHARPENING TOOLS.”
collected and kept off the damp ground where it could also fall victim to the wind. Anyone
o’s ever had any experience with shaving magnesium or thin wood shavings can attest to
frustration of keeping a uniform pile. This is especially important when a fire is needed in an
ergency.
This tool is no substitution for proper fire preparation. However, starting your campfire or
backyard BBQ is always easier with the right amount of tinder to start with. Rub a piece of wood
against the grater, toward the rough edges, to grate the wood shavings into the box. When the
tinder box is full, the amount seems to be more than enough tinder for two or more fires. With
just simple soft wood, half or the entire box would be enough. If you are using fatwood, which is
very resinous, half would be plenty.
Once your firewood preparation is done, dump the required amount of tinder shavings out and
start working the included ferrocerium rod and V-shaped striker. Position the striker closer to
the ferrocerium rod handle so you can have a full strike backwards, propelling the sparks toward
the tinder pile. I tried this on fatwood and it worked like a charm.
Preparation is always the main ingredient in successful fire building. I tried poplar wood
shavings as well, but more are needed because poplar lacks the amount of resin required to
prolong the flame as in fatwood. I would recommend sticking to softer, dry woods such as
poplar, spruce, pine, willow, and yucca. These will take a spark easier than harder woods, which
are generally better suited for fuel.
On the food side of things, this configuration caught my eye as another way to grate cheese
and garlic for an outdoor cooking situation. I cook a lot in the woods and jungle. The fact that
the small grater can be removed and kept separate from the rest of the set-up makes it a fine
backpacking food preparation tool. I used it on cheese and garlic while cooking during the ‹ The pile of fatwood shavings was quickly
course of a few overnighters in the bush. It worked well, giving this item validity to pack as a ignited by the author to start a nice winter
lean-to fire. The author used a piece of bark
multi-use tool, worthy of its weight. It could even be used to add zest from a lemon or orange to make ignition, then slid the lit tinder
peel, or to grate parmesan cheese. under the pile.

‹ Far left: The carbide blades are the heart of the
Axe & Machete Sharpener. The yellow plastic
strip is a good protector from the aluminum
casing.
‹ Near left: The Axe & Machete Sharp-

ener being used on an old machete that
has lost its edge. The hand is completely
guarded by the plastic safety guard as
the tool runs down the length of the
blade.
‹ Bottom left: The wire brush is

used before every sharpening.
It makes the sharpening go
smoother.
When not in use, the grater can be reversed with the smooth side facing out. This protects oth-
er gear and your fingers from an accidental cut. Either way, fire or food is equally made better
and easier with the Smith's Pack Pal Tinder Maker. The supplied ferrocerium rod is quite thin
and will not last too long. However, that can easily be changed out for any other ferrocerium
rod that fits the supplied V-shaped striker, or you can use your own. Ultimately, the gem of the
whole set-up is the grater and attached box, not limiting the end user to any source of ignition!
SMITH’S AXE & MACHETE SHARPENER

Smith’s handheld Axe & Machete Sharpener is the perfect tool for keeping your axe, hatchet
or machete in prime cutting condition. This simple and easy-to-use sharpener uses preset car-
SMITH'S
bide blades to quickly put a smooth, sharp edge on your blade in just minutes. It has a durable
plastic head, soft grip handle, and an oversized finger guard for safe and secure sharpening at
SCISSORS
all times.
An added feature of this tool is the built-in wire brush, stored in the handle. It allows the user
SHARPENER
to clean off the wood and grit that accumulate during use, thus keeping the carbide blades
cleaner when sharpening tools. Simply press on the front portion of the handle, where it says,
“Press,” and the wire brush will pop out of the handle. Besides keeping the sharpener clear
Smith’s 10-Second Knife & Scissors Sharpener features a of debris, the wire brush cleans pots and pans in camp when nothing else will work on that
V-shaped knife sharpening slot with two crossed carbide stubborn, burned-on food that needs a little extra push.
blades. The carbide blades allow you to put a quick edge on “Safety first,” is something I’ve heard my entire life when it came to working with edged
your knife with just three or four strokes and are preset at a tools. The oversized hand guard definitely takes safety to a whole new level. Drawing an axe or
fixed sharpening angle for guaranteed results every time. The long-bladed tool along the Axe & Machete Sharpener was as safe as it could be.
patented scissors sharpener (built into the The bright yellow tool is not easily lost in the forest, yard or workshop. The robust, plastic
handle) features a specially designed “floating” housing keeps the two V-set carbide bits in place. A new or neglected machete or hatchet can
round ceramic rod. This floating rod conforms to easily be run through the tool for a rough sharpening. Machetes meant for use in the yard often
the exact angle of your scissors during use and come with a dull suggestion of what the edge should be. Besides using a bastard mill file, this
works on both left- and right-handed scissors. tool from Smith’s is the fastest, safest way to get a rough working edge.
Just three or four strokes through the sharpener I first used this on a Council Tool Hudson Bay axe. It worked OK, but I did want to balance out
… to put the edge back the bevel later to be able to do some fine work with it. Thinner tools like machetes seem well
on your household suited for the coarse carbide bits that scrape off a fair amount of metal. I’ve been on trips to
scissors. The MSRP for South America where new machetes were issued to students who didn’t have a mill file or a
the 10-Second Knife & coarse stone to get them in working shape. The Smith’s Axe & Machete Sharpener would have
Scissors Sharpener is $7.99. come in handy, however, I didn’t know of its existence at that time. It sure would have made
my life easier!

“[SMITH’S] OFFERINGS INCLUDE BOTH
MANUAL AND ELECTRICAL SHARPENERS
THAT INCORPORATE MANY DIFFERENT
ABRASIVE MATERIALS INCLUDING
DIAMOND, CARBIDE, CERAMIC, BONDED
SYNTHETIC ABRASIVES AND, OF COURSE,
NATURAL ARKANSAS STONES.”
Recently, I took a short trip to Georgia, where I brought the Axe & Machete Sharpener. I came Axe & Machete Sharpener
across a few tools that could use a little looking after. I started with a South American machete
Specifications
that needed an edge badly. I used the wire brush to remove as many years of grit and rust as
• Dimensions: 7.3x3.5x2.1 inches
I could. Then I ran the long blade through the V-shaped carbide bits, and whatever the wire • Weight: 8 ounces
brush didn’t remove, the carbide bits did! • Sharpens axes, hatchets, and machetes
In no time, the shiny grind gleamed through the darkened rust. Next came a pair of shears and • Cleaning brush with wire bristles stores in handle
• Durable, plastic head for easier sharpening
an old hatchet that needed attention. Again, the wire brush was used first, removing as much
• Oversized handle allows for use with gloves
rust as possible. After I ran the tools through the carbide bits, a prominent bevel was soon • Large safety guard
established. On heavy, thick blades, not much is lost with the amount of metal removed by the
MSRP: $11.99
tool. If anything, it removes years of neglect off these tools and makes them fit for work again.
I was preparing some meat and vegetables for kabobs and saw an old Forge Craft Carbon
steel cleaver that needed a little edge work. Due to the thickness of it, I started out with the
Axe & Machete Sharpener, and then moved onto the medium diamond stone. Before long, it
was sharp enough to thinly slice veggies for a stir fry. I also ran a few kitchen knives through
the sharpener for a quick sharp edge, which is what you get with the Smith’s Axe & Machete
Sharpener.
SUMMARY
These Smith’s products, especially the Pack Pal Tinder Maker with Fire Starter, are great for
the avid outdoorsman, prepper, hunter, camper or backpacker. Shears, a hatchet, a cleaver and
a machete were all easily brought back to life with the Axe & Machete Sharpener. It is more of
a base camp or garage touch-up tool, rather than a hiking tool. I feel these two Smith’s offer-
ings can easily work in conjunction with one another, serving different purposes, yet covering
all the bases!
› Far right: The wire brush proved to be

an important tool in conjunction with the
sharpener. It gets rid of the grit that can
clog up the carbide sharpening blades.
› Near right: Here, an old hatchet has been

sharpened and the bevel re-established.
The carbide sharpening bits would be less
effective if the rust was still on the blade.
› Bottom right: An old pair of garden shears

now has a keen edge thanks to the Smith’s
Axe & Machete Sharpener. A few passes
with the coarse carbide and the tool was
reborn.
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BY BRIAN M. MORRIS
s Americans, we have been conditioned to think that if anything bad Now what I am definitely NOT saying is that if you live on the coast and you receive
happens we must “run to the hills”. Iconic movies like Red Dawn have warning that a Category 5 hurricane is headed your way that you should ignore orders
led to, or helped instill, this romantic fantasy. Many preppers and to evacuate and stay put. What I am saying is that, if a catastrophic event were to
others who have an interest in self-reliance expect that they can just occur, it would be smart to consider that many parts of the coastal United States offer
head to the mountains and survive if they ever need to disappear, and cover and concealment and access to food, water and shelter. The bottom line is that
they would do fine. coastal regions of the country offer the best chances of survival, especially for those
What people have not truly thought through is just how harsh life in the mountains who are not experts at sustaining themselves solely on the resources that Mother
can be. Unpredictable weather, extremely brutal winters, and truly sparse food all Nature has to offer.
year round, unless you are an expert hunter and trapper and have the knowledge of a Of course, if you have a bug-out homestead tucked deep in the mountains and
botanist when it comes to gathering food. stocked with a few years’ worth of supplies, that’s great! We recommend everyone
Consider this; Native Americans have lived in coastal regions of this country for thou- have an alternate location within a day’s drive from their current home that is stocked
sands of years. They did not have NOAA to warn them of major hurricanes or storms and ready when a situation unfolds where it is no longer a viable option to remain
and they were able to continue to flourish, even after the settlers started coming to at home. If a scenario like that was to occur, the most prudent decision would be to
this country. create distance from the threat, regroup and then plan out the next move.
According to the U.S. Census, we have 12,383 miles of coast line and 86,633 miles That said, regardless of whether you are a homesteader deep in the Tennessee
of shoreline. In addition to that there are hundreds of thousands of square miles of mountains or if you are a city dweller living in Chicago with a secret bug-out location
tributaries, marshes, mangroves and swamps that are part of these coastal regions. out in the hills, it is ALWAYS smart to have a Plan B and a Plan C. And when it comes
When you consider all of that, it should be easy to see how, in an emergency where it to having to stay alive by living off the land and with minimal gear or resources of
was no longer safe for you to stay in your home, that you would consider “bugging out” your own, then bugging out to the coastal regions of the U.S. is an excellent option to
to a coastal region of the country. consider.
In a situation where it is necessary to abandon your home and possessions, you
would want to ensure that your destination was remote enough to offer refuge and
protection from the threat that forced you to leave. You would want this location to
have enough natural resources to sustain you and whoever was with you. Coastal areas
typically provide all of the necessary survival attributes, making them an excellent
choice for maximizing your odds of living off the land.
One of the reasons that Native Americans did so well in coastal regions is that these
areas offer a plethora of food sources from land, sea and sky that require a minimal
amount of effort to procure. That is what gave them the time and the energy to
concentrate on honing more difficult and complex survival skillsets such as hunting,
trapping and protecting their communities from rivals, predators and Mother Nature.
© GETTY IMAGES

American Survival Guide Vol.8 Issue 8

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How-to: Coastal Survival

HOW TO PLAN FOR AND DEAL WITH

TOWN AND COUNTRY

U.S. $8.99 AUGUST 2019 DISPLAY UNTIL 7/23/19

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MSRP: $199.97 www.Klymit.com https://BushcraftOutfitters.com MSRP: $175.99

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Far left: Matt

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MG No. I’m where I’m supposed to be.

ASG How has your outlook evolved concerning

MG I’ve never really been into those things very

ASG Is it difficult to balance a simple back-to-

MG I have allowed many of my skills and

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Family First Aid Kit 4 DVD

*ALL OUR KITS ARE

Doom and Bloom Medical and Alton First Aid are

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Eze-Lap Diamond Sharpeners

Gingrich Tactical Innovations

Spyderco Tri-Angle Sharpener

Victorinox Dual Knife

UNIQUE DELTA LOCK

“WHEN IT COMES TO CHOOSING A KNIFE THAT MIGHT HAVE TO

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‹ Top left: The GTI Delta Lock Folder is a well-

‹ Middle: The open design of the

‹ Bottom left: The blade flipper allows for

GTI Delta Lock Folder

› The GTI Delta Lock Folder is slightly less

‹ Far left, middle: The knife’s glass break-

‹ Below: The open design of the knife helps to

“GINGRICH DESCRIBES HIS

TEM. IT’S A STRONG, TOUGH, CAPABLE KNIFE

HARD USE, NOT ABUSE

› While not one of the author’s usual everyday

› Bottom right: The author used the

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MI Ruger PC9 Mount

MI Ruger PC9 T1 Mount for MI Handguards

MI Ruger PC9 MI Ruger PC9

W292S4498 Hillside Road

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“WITH ALMOST HALF OF THE STATES IN THE U.S. BORDERING

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typical solution of heading for the hills.

THE LURE OF THE SHORE

preppers are already homesteaders, and if the

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› Right: Large game

› Far Right: This in-

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