Off-Grid Driver’s Ed: Learning to Drive a UTV

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Photos courtesy of Joey Nickischer and Team TORN

In Issue 26 of RECOIL OFFGRID we discuss using a Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV) as a potential bug-out vehicle. UTVs are quick, agile, and designed to handle all but the toughest ground conditions. They offer all the off-road benefits of their ATV siblings, but unlike ATVs, UTVs can accommodate between two and four passengers and most models feature a pickup-style bed for additional cargo. All but the most bulked-up UTVs can fit inside a two-car garage and be hauled on a trailer.

UTV learning to drive offroad bugout vehicle car truck atv trail shtf 2

While they offer many benefits, some people are easily misled to believe the only prerequisite to driving a UTV is having a license. Wrong answer. Just like novices who pilot a boat or personal watercraft for the first time, thousands of people are injured every year who mistakenly assume that driving a UTV is just like driving a car on a dirt road. Before you go down the proverbial road of purchasing one, we’d like to give you some advice. Like anything with an engine, UTVs require skill, experience, and more than a little respect to be used safely and effectively.

We spoke to two off-road experts specializing in the selection, fitment, and use of UTVs in austere environments. They gave us some pointers on the perils of driving UTVs under various conditions as well as what to look for in a UTV you may have to stake your family’s survival on.

 

UTV Expert Interview

RECOIL OFFGRID: What are the biggest differences between driving a UTV and driving a car?

Joey Nickischer: The biggest difference is that a UTV does not handle like a car. Aggressive off-road tires, high ground clearance, and a narrow wheelbase, while assets in the off-road environment, give the UTV a higher center of gravity compared to the average road vehicle.

“Muggs” McCoy: For starters, the characteristics that make a vehicle suitable for off-road and rough terrain often detract from on-road performance. Flexible suspensions with long travel, high ground clearance, and heavier driveline components can cause a UTV to respond to driver input in ways that the uninitiated may be unprepared for. The UTV’s higher center of gravity and narrower width means less stability. This, in addition to their increased suspension travel, causes the UTV to have more body roll when swerving or cornering than a typical car.

If the UTV driver isn’t accustomed to this feeling they may not know how to correctly manage it. This can cause them to either over-correct, which causes the UTV to sway and swerve back and forth, making the vehicle hard to manage, or, they interpret the body roll as impending rollover and instinctively apply the brakes, unintentionally increasing the chance of the back tires catching on rocks or dirt buildup. As a UTV driver, you need to start out slowly, get a feel for the suspension, and understand what your vehicle is doing underneath you.

UTV learning to drive offroad bugout vehicle car truck atv trail shtf 3

Inexperienced drivers often feel the temptation to take unnecessary chances with a UTV to test its capabilities. In an...

Do the rules change when the environment changes?

JN: Absolutely. Speed can be your friend in certain circumstances, such as when driving through mud. That same speed can lead to uncontrollable driving in wet/icy areas.

MM: The terrain dictates how you must drive. In a sandy environment, the vehicle is going to react a little slower and follow any grooved path in the sand (the path of least resistance). If that “line” is good, stick with it, but if not, it can be difficult to drive out of. Driving out of grooved or rutted terrain in the sand, mud, or hard packed dirt requires caution. The best approach is to keep your eyes up and look ahead for the best place to exit; commit to your decision and don’t second-guess yourself (hesitation can lead to its own issues).

Be prepared to manage abrupt steering jerks and try to keep the wheels as straight as possible. In rocky terrain, you need to slow down. Going fast over rocks can quickly overwhelm and even damage your suspension. The size of the rocks dictates how much you must decrease your speed. Slowing your speed down enables you to successfully negotiate obstacles and increase your vehicle’s survivability.

Your vehicle’s electrical components are exposed and can easily get wet and short out. Additionally, you could get water in the air intake and sucked into the engine, creating a very bad day. The best approach for a water crossing, if the situation dictates, is to get out of the vehicle prior and test the depth and bottom composition of the water. Determining the water is at a safe depth ensures it will not reach the electrical components and, more dramatically, ensures you won’t drive into a huge hole. Once you’ve check the water”s depth and bottom composition, drive through slowly and attempt to keep the water as low and still as possible. Too many people worry about getting stuck during a water crossing and try to “gun it” to get across. That’s the worst thing you can do.

UTV learning to drive offroad bugout vehicle car truck atv trail shtf 1

Team TORN provides UTV as well as motorcycle training in various scenarios as part of their curriculum.

When you teach UTV driving, what are the most common mistakes you see students make?

JN: The average person isn’t accustomed to driving on steep slopes, boulder fields, and other low-traction terrain. It’s a completely different driving experience. When surmounting obstacles, it’s common to have one foot on the gas and the other on the brake. You want to climb your obstacle with control and ensure you don’t start to slip backward.

The steering wheel can also kick back violently and unexpectedly when the front tires encounter certain obstacles. As such, it’s imperative that you keep your thumbs outside of the steering wheel. The common 10 and 2 or 9 and 3 hand positioning is fine, but make sure your thumbs are out if you don’t want a very painful thumb injury.

Another thing that takes getting used to is not being able to see the terrain and having to rely on the spotter. The spotter can see a lot better than you can, and it’s imperative that you trust him or her. If your spotter says turn the wheel left and move forward 12 inches, then you need to turn the wheel left and move forward 12 inches. When the spotter says stop, then stop! One of the drills I have my students do is driving through a typical traffic cone driving course while blindfolded. This way, they learn to trust the spotter and to only do exactly what the spotter says, lest they “crash” into a cone.

MM: The greatest and most dangerous mistake students make is being overconfident in their abilities. The similarities with a car (the side-by-side seats, seatbelts, steering wheel, etc.) give first-time drivers the impression the UTV will handle like a car, and provide the same level of protection. Students end up driving too fast which gives them little to no time to react to the terrain in order to correct mistakes before they lose control.

For people who are considering buying a UTV as a potential survival tool or bug-out vehicle, what would you recommend they look for?

JN: You want a vehicle that has known durability, easy-to-find spare parts, and is easy to service/repair. The best-selling UTV is the Polaris Ranger and they even make a special line of vehicles strictly for the U.S. Government. Those vehicles are built around commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components.

Something else that could be mentioned is drive systems. Many of the common UTVs feature a belt-drive CVT drive system. These transmissions require a certain amount of engine rpm before the belt engages between the sheaves of the transmission. Having inadequate engine speed coupled with a difficult to turn tire can lead to belt damage or failure, a term known as “smoking the belt.” CVTs are found on the Polaris Ranger, Can-Am Defender, John Deere Gator, and others.

Few UTVs utilize a hydraulic drive system, like those found on hydrostatic tractors. With these, the engine runs a hydraulic pump, which funnels fluid to the drive system. They tend to be very torquey in the low end. The Kubota RTV uses this system. As an added bonus, the hydraulics can also be used to power other components.

Some UTVs use a gear drive, which is a little more familiar to the average driver. However, unlike modern vehicles where you can switch between 2×4 and 4×4 on the fly, you usually cannot do so on gear-drive UTVs. The Honda Pioneer uses this type of drive system. As usual, safety should be discussed. Always, always, always wear your seatbelt. You should also consider upgrading the three-point seatbelt to a four-point harness style.

Before attempting any water crossings, get out and check the depth of the water first to avoid drawing water into the UTV’s components.

Before attempting any water crossings, get out and check the depth of the water first to avoid drawing water into the...

The harness-style seatbelt will hold you in position a lot better in the event of a rollover. In UTVs with a full rollcage, you should still wear a helmet, even if it’s only a half helmet. And never, never, never hold onto the rollcage. Only hold onto manufacturer-specified grab bars. If the vehicle rolls over while you have a death grip on the cage, there’s a very good chance your hand will be crushed and amputated. And to go along with that thought, don’t try to stop a rollover by sticking your hand or leg outside of the vehicle. You’re not going to hold up, or even slow down, a 1-ton (or heavier) vehicle that is rolling over. You will most likely lose that limb in the rollover.

MM: The No. 1 thing I advise people to look for in a UTV is durability. If SHTF, you won’t have the luxury of taking the UTV in to get serviced or parts replaced. Therefore, look for a brand with high durability ratings. Don’t simply look at popular opinion on the “cool factor” or the latest gadgets and features. Get under the vehicles, look at their components and how well they are made. Research the engine — how does it perform? What are the top service issues? Even for new UTVs, most of their engines are the same or similar ones that have been used in snowmobiles for years.

Meet Our Panel

Joey Nickischer

UTV learning to drive offroad bugout vehicle car truck atv trail shtf 6

A nationally certified Search and Rescue Technician 1 Lead Evaluator (SARTECH1), Joey Nickischer is also a retired New York City Police Department detective. Over the course of 20 years, his assignments in NYC have included uniformed patrol, Tactical Patrol Force, Citywide Task Force – Plainclothes and Pickpocket Squad. Additionally, for 14 years, he was assigned to the Fugitive Enforcement Division, where his job was to track down people who didn’t want to be found. He currently works as a lead technical rescue instructor for RIT Safety Solutions, AAA Emergency Supply, and Newburgh Rescue Supply.

On the volunteer side, Joey is the Chief of New York Search & Rescue and has led his team through searches ranging from the Word Trade Center Terrorist Attacks, to Hurricane Katrina ravaged New Orleans and through the Catskill Mountains of New York. He serves as a team leader with both the Westchester County Technical Rescue Team and the Putnam County Technical Rescue Team, as well as an Assistant Chief with the Patterson Fire Department.

“Muggs” McCoy

UTV learning to drive offroad bugout vehicle car truck atv trail shtf 7

The owner of Team TORN (Technical Off Road Navigation), Muggs is a retired, 24-year veteran of the military. With 18 years in special operations, Muggs’ professional experience spans a broad range of technical and tactical skills essential for training the nation’s elite forces. Throughout his career he has trained hundreds of members of the special operations community in tactical mobility, as well as developed and utilized mobility tactics, training and procedures in both Iraq and Afghanistan. Muggs began motorcycle and UTV racing during his military career, culminating in the country’s longest off-road race: Vegas To Reno.

During his military training, Muggs noticed a gap in instruction that’d link superb riding training and tactical mobility needed for special operations professionals. He then approached race-professionals Jimmy Lewis and Shane Watts to create a program that combines the necessary skills for riding with the tactical knowledge necessary for real-world missions, thus starting Team TORN. www.teamtorn.com

More From Issue 26

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Read articles from the next issue of Recoil Offgrid: Issue 27

Read articles from the previous issue of Recoil Offgrid: Issue 25

Check out our other publications on the web: Recoil | Gun Digest | Blade | RecoilTV | RECOILtv (YouTube)

Editor's Note: This article has been modified from its original version for the web.

Vaporwear: Gas Mask Buyer’s Guide

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The history of gas masks is long and varied, in hopes of matching the threat from various different types of agents. Early “masks” were just wet sponges covering the user’s mouth and nose. As threats changed, so did the masks and the technology behind them. Lots of people are familiar with the M17 military gas mask, but like everything in life, filters and composition have improved. Today, the M17 is nothing more than a conversation piece since the filters contain chromium, which we now know to be a carcinogen.

The first question you should consider is whether you even need a gas mask. If the anticipated threat is simply riot control agents (RCA), then any of the masks listed here will be fine. And depending on how uncomfortable you want to be, so will a wet sponge. The penalty for exposure to RCAs is discomfort for a brief period of time. If it’s something more nefarious, like VX nerve agent, then a mask is only the first step since the agent can also be absorbed through exposed skin. That type of threat requires full body protection and coverage — but level A to D chem suits are a topic for another day.

In this article, we’ll discuss two types of threats: CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear) and RCAs. Considering the nature of these hazards, only full-face respirators are considered. These types of agents not only affect your breathing, but they’re particularly good at disrupting your moist bits, like eyes, mouth, and nose. All of those areas need to be covered to be properly protected, hence the need for full-face protection.

Photo courtesy of Avon Protection

Photo courtesy of Avon Protection

Plenty of people lose their minds as soon as the “octopus” attaches to their face. Hyperventilating and feelings of claustrophobia are fairly common. So, if the face-hugger creatures from the Alien franchise really freak you out, air-purifying respirators (APRs) will take some getting used to. Drawing breath will be harder in an APR — you’re pulling air through a fairly dense filter, so normal breathing will be affected. Add in any physical activity, and it only gets worse.

It goes without saying that you should be checked by a doctor to determine whether you’re healthy enough to wear a mask, how long you should wear it, and whether or not prolonged use might have adverse health effects. Most occupational health clinics can perform this type of checkup since they routinely do it for cops and occupations that require respirators.

Of course, if you’re faced with a situation where a mask is truly needed, you’ll need to weigh the potential health risk of wearing it versus that of exposure. The general health checkup is still important for training in a mask though, so please don’t neglect it.

Selecting a full-face mask isn’t enough on its own — you’ll also need to consider its level of protection. In conjunction with the type of filter chosen, the mask’s materials are also important. Butyl rubber (BR) and silicone are the most common, with butyl rubber being more resistant to UV and different types of chemicals. BR and silicone are most common since they provide a great sealing surface as well as resistance to a large variety of agents.

Ideally, the mask you choose should accept filters with a 40mm NATO thread. This will allow you to choose from a variety of NATO filters. A NIOSH-rated (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) CBRN filter will handle damn near everything. The MSA Advantage doesn’t have this feature, so its value is diminished as a result. Filter adapters are available, but introduce an additional point of potential failure in a very important system. Masks are certified, but only filters are rated. To learn more about the accreditation system you can visit www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/topics/respirators/disp_part/default.html.

The upper portion of your mask should provide clarity of vision and keep peripheral vision obstructions to a minimum. It should be easy to don without a complex webbing system, and lastly it should be comfortable to wear for prolonged periods. A hydration tube port is always a welcome feature — in some hotter climates and more strenuous conditions it should be considered mandatory. Remember that you may not be able to take off the mask for several hours, and without a hydration port, you won’t be able to drink anything during that time. A CamelBak adapter is readily available for most masks with drinking tubes.

The addition of voice amplifiers and radio cables might also be mandatory depending on your task and purpose. And if you’re using it frequently for police or military operations, or if you’re really committed to making sure it can save your life, then you need to be clean shaven to ensure the best seal. Sorry neckbeard dudes, but no amount of Vaseline smeared into your beard will give you the same seal as bare skin.

Testing

An OHD fit machine.

An OHD fit machine.

All of the masks evaluated were size medium, and this author tested all of them for “fit factor” on an OHD Fit Testing Machine. The OHD machine is designed to test the overall fit of the mask on an individual user. The filter is removed, and the machine is hooked to the filter port of any mask with 40mm threads. Once hooked up, the wearer goes through a series of tests while holding their breath. The machine purges the air from the mask and creates negative pressure. Sensors determine the overall “fit” of the mask to the wearer. This takes the guessing game out of what size is best for you, and helps determine the best size based on the shape of your face and head. The test procedure includes standing straight up, bending over at the waist, vigorous shaking of the head from left to right, and so forth.

Gas mask buyers guide survival prepper shtf emergency chemical biological weapon safety 3

You’re allowed to breathe in between each test, but you must hold your breath for each event. The end result is either a pass or fail, and the machine will provide a number, or “fit factor.” The higher the number, the better the seal and fit of the mask to the user. If you don’t have access to a machine, a negative pressure test or the use of strongly scented sprays like Bitrex or banana oil are good alternatives. The latter items should be available through safety supply distributors that cater to industry professionals. We’ll explain negative pressure testing in a bit, but for now let’s talk about the masks that were tested and evaluated. A minimum point value of 500 is required to get a pass; there’s no maximum number that we’re aware of. The higher, the better.

Evaluation Procedures

With the exception of the Mestel mask, this author has worn all of these masks into RCA environments for prolonged periods of time during building searches for criminals. Agent exposure was CS and OC — in other words, tear gas and pepper spray. In most cases the agent was in both liquid and powder form, and usually both types of agents were deployed on the location. The Mestel mask was worn for a period of 90 minutes to test for comfort and weight, but due to the lack of a location to deploy live agents, no agent exposure test was performed.

In addition, we conducted peripheral vision measurements using a standard tape measure. These measurements were taken while standing with head straight up and then while casting eyes down to determine how far forward we could see on the ground without tilting the head. This is important if you’re navigating through a congested space, even more so in low light. We also took a measurement looking straight down at the ground with head tilted forward. This simulates having to climb down something or just looking for obstructions directly at your feet.

Lastly, we measured with head straight and then eyes moved hard left and right to determine how much peripheral vision was available. These measurements are indicated below by straight, downward, and peripheral vision loss, respectively. This was conducted using a tape measure with the base of the tape at the wearer’s feet. Zero inches would indicate no loss of vision and then extends out from there. So the higher the number, the further away the visible point is.

Negative Pressure Testing

While the OHD machine provides the best measurement of fit, negative pressure testing comes in second, followed by a squirt of Bitrex or banana oil as mentioned before. A negative pressure test is easy to perform and can be done every time you put the mask on to ensure you have a proper seal. If you think you’re already exposed, hold your breath first. Don the mask, cover the exhale port, and breathe out forcefully. This will vent the contaminated air that you just scooped onto your face. Immediately cover the filter inhale port and attempt to breathe in. You shouldn’t get any air.

If you do get air, the mask isn’t secured properly and is allowing air to pass — or you didn’t completely cover the filter inhale port. Reposition and try again. Adjust the head harness accordingly. If you still sense agent, vent the mask again using the procedure above, but don’t remove the mask. Start at step two. If you’re simply putting your mask on due to concern about possible agents being disseminated, there’s no need to hold your breath during the donning procedure.

Fogging

If the eyepiece is fogging, it’s generally an indicator of a bad seal. Reposition and go through the aforementioned steps again. The mask is designed so that contaminated air gets pulled through the filter and cool air goes over the eyepiece to de-fog. The air is then drawn into the mouth/nose piece, and you breathe the filtered air. When you exhale, diaphragms in the nose piece are sealed. This forces the condensation and exhaled air out of the exhale port. Breathe in and the diaphragm on the exhale port is sealed.

Filter Changes

Filters with red circles highlighting protection level, CBRN, and CS/CN/P100. P100 means it’ll filter particulates out of the air down to 1 micron in size. The width of a human hair is 75 microns. CN is a riot agent that’s no longer used due to its high carcinogen factor, but it’s still indicated on filters. OC is generally never listed as an RCA, even though you wouldn’t want to inhale it — OC is a derivative of hot peppers, thus it’s considered a food product not an “agent.”

Filters with red circles highlighting protection level, CBRN, and CS/CN/P100. P100 means it’ll filter particulates...

If you’re in a chemical environment and need to conduct a filter change, take a deep breath and hold it. Unscrew the old filter and screw on the new filter without taking a breath. Once the new filter is seated, cover the exhale port and forcefully breathe out. If you inadvertently breathe in with the filter off, you’ll draw contaminated air into the face piece. Once the new filter is on, breathe normally. It’s worth noting that this procedure is different if you have an Air Boss LBM. The LBM is designed so that when the filter is removed, a spring-loaded mechanism seals the mask. If you attempt to breathe in, you won’t get air until the new filter is seated. It goes without saying that you need to be able to conduct a filter change rapidly while wearing the mask in any condition.

Maintenance

Maintenance for all the masks is simple. Remove the filter. Filters can be exposed to rain and fog, but shouldn’t be submerged in water. Once a filter is removed from its foil pack, it’s certified for 15 minutes of use for the agents it’s designed to defeat. For riot control, you can reuse the same filter over and over until you start to sense agent. Then replace as necessary. For CBRN, you better have new ones in foil pack ready to go that aren’t expired, per the date on the package. If you don’t, use what you have, but you’ll be taking a chance.

Once the filter is removed, the whole mask can be dunked in warm soapy water and rinsed clean. Air-dry and then use an appropriate lens cloth on the eyepiece. If the mask is contaminated with CBRN, you can’t just pop it off and start cleaning it. You need to go through an entire decon process. For RCA, you can just clean it, but be careful about touching your eyes, face, and other sensitive areas until your hands are thoroughly washed as well.

For peace of mind, a certified CBRN filter from a reputable manufacturer will work for both CBRN and RCA. They are fairly big, however, so police officers may want a separate RCA-only filter as well as CBRN filters stored in foil packs. This keeps the good ones ready and the smaller, usually cheaper RCA filters for most common use.

Review: MSA Millennium

Gas mask buyers guide survival prepper shtf emergency chemical biological weapon safety 8

Allows for hydration and the use of a voice amplifier that attaches to the front of the mask. It has a 40mm NATO thread for filters of all types and ports on each side. The user can mount the filter on their support side so it doesn’t impede shouldering a weapon or using two filters simultaneously. The face piece is huge and flexible, allowing the mask to deform slightly when shouldering a weapon to facilitate use of the sights. This deformation can also cause distortion, so user beware. It’s very comfortable to wear over prolonged periods. It’s lightweight, there are no pinch points, the material is soft and seals easily, and the head harness is easy to center and tighten. The interior mouth and nose cup are also soft and seal easily. Electronic voice amplifier doesn’t come standard, but is easily attached if you want to spend the money.

Weight
19.9 ounces

Straight vision loss
91 inches

Downward vision loss
22 inches

Peripheral vision loss
1 inch

Overall Fit Factor on OHD
Pass / 1,537

Our overall rating
8/10

MSRP
$632

URL
us.msasafety.com

Review: Mestel SGE 400/3 BB

Gas mask buyers guide survival prepper shtf emergency chemical biological weapon safety 9

No hydration value or electronic voice amp is available for this mask. The mask has 40mm threads for filters and is outfitted with three ports, one on each side and one in the front. The face piece is hard plastic and quite large; however, only the center portion is optically correct. The rest of the clear portion is distorted due to its curvature, so only the section that’s about the size of a standard set of dust goggles is usable. This design also makes prolonged wear uncomfortable since it causes some eye fatigue. You tend to look through the distorted sections because they’re clear, but the resulting image is blurry. It was comfortable on the face during the test, and the head harness centers easily. Each strap on the head harness has positive “clicks” when you tighten them. This allows you to better center the head harness with clicks and feel. This mask was unable to pass the OHD machine testing in size medium on this author. It failed three times in a row before we could even start and a fourth time after the first stage. Mestel then sent a small. It passed on the OHD machine, but compressed eyebrows down to the point that it was uncomfortable and impeded vision.

Weight
22.5 ounces

Straight vision loss
107 inches

Downward vision loss
13 inches

Peripheral vision loss
1 inch

Overall Fit Factor on OHD
Pass / 1,194

Our overall rating
5/10

MSRP
$299

URL
www.mestelsafety.com

Review: Avon Protection FM53

Gas mask buyers guide survival prepper shtf emergency chemical biological weapon safety 10

This mask accepts both hydration and an electronic voice amplifier. Of all the masks tested, this is the only one that currently supports a direct comm cable for a radio, providing much clearer radio transmissions than a voice amp to boom mic setup. However, the design of the mask puts the internal mic on the mask, exactly where all of your breath condensation and sweat accumulate. As a result, members of this author’s team constantly ruined the mics. Sometimes they could be recovered by popping them out and throwing them in a bag of rice overnight. Other times, they were just fried from moisture and had to be scrapped as a total loss. It’s very easy to change them out, but it gets expensive. The mask is very comfortable to wear and the viewport design is very much like a set of old-school shooting goggles. The mask is supple and seals easily, and the head harness is easy to adjust and center. Donning the mask is fast and efficient. It accepts 40mm NATO thread filters on either side to aid in shouldering weapons. The only downside to this mask is its long, protruding shape. Other than that, it’s a great mask and has served well on countless barricades and warrant services.

Weight
26.8 ounces

Straight vision loss
75 inches

Downward vision loss
18 inches (long face piece and protrusion)

Peripheral vision loss
3.5 inches

Overall Fit Factor on OHD
Pass / 1,156

Our overall rating
9/10

MSRP
$1,218

URL
www.avon-protection.com

Review: Air Boss LBM (Low Burden Mask)

Gas mask buyers guide survival prepper shtf emergency chemical biological weapon safety 7

This mask allows for hydration and an electronic voice amplifier with an adapter that Air Boss provides. We used an MSA brand voice amp with this mask on duty. It doesn’t have a radio cable, but our understanding is that one is being developed. It accepts 40mm NATO thread canisters. The mask is extremely lightweight and supple. The eyepiece is also the same design as a pair of shooting goggles; however, the lenses are hard. Users can purchase tear-away lens covers to protect against scratches, smudges, and other marks. In our opinion, this is the optimal way to do it. We want to be able to tear-away the covers and have the hard lens remain for protection without adding a hard cover. It has a very short front profile and doesn’t protrude very far. The eyepiece sits very close to the eyes, which is a bonus if using night vision devices since they can be positioned closer to your eyes. This may vary depending on the wearer’s facial features, but we do notice a difference compared to the other masks tested. The mask seals easily, and the head harness stays centered. Subjectively, it’s the most comfortable mask we’ve used, and it’s been fantastic on numerous barricades and warrants with live RCA agents. We could sleep in this thing. It also has the lowest weight, best vision measurement numbers, and highest fit factor of any of the masks evaluated by a wide margin.

Weight
17 ounces

Straight vision loss
59 inches

Downward vision loss
0 inches (no loss of visibility)

Peripheral vision loss
0 inches (no loss of visibility)

Overall Fit Factor on OHD
Pass / 1,732

Our overall rating
10/10

MSRP
Approx. $500

URL
www.airbossdefense.com

Conclusion

This article covers just a small sampling of the many masks available on the market. Most of them were chosen with the fighting man’s needs in mind, but many of those same needs are common for the citizen. A base guideline would include: full face piece, 40mm thread compatibility, comfort, and hydration, with the cost factor considered after all the others. Anything manufactured prior to 2000 shouldn’t even be considered for purchase, as technology has advanced way too far to accept anything else.

Gas Mask

A mask is also only the first step in protection. Dermal exposure is a concern for many CBRN agents, but that’s an entirely different topic. A tall optic mount for your rifle allows for faster and easier acquisition of sights, but a laser aiming device is best when wearing a mask. If the mask manufacturer makes a lens cover, they’re highly recommended to keep the viewport clear. Most do, and some even offer smoke, yellow, and laser safety lenses.

Lastly, if you’re considering starting a riot or helping to maintain a riot, and you’re reading this article to thwart law enforcement attempts to maintain the peace, then shame on you. No mask will protect you against a barrage of less lethal munitions or a pair of handcuffs.

About the Author

Bill Blowers spent six years in the U.S. Army before becoming a police officer. He recently retired from law enforcement after 25 years, 22 years of that assigned to SWAT. He was his department’s respiratory protection specialist for several years and his last assignment included supervising the program. Bill is the owner of Tap-Rack Tactical, LLC, a police training company focusing on SWAT topics. www.tap-rack.com

More From Issue 26

Don’t miss essential survival insights—sign up for Recoil Offgrid's free newsletter today!

Read articles from the next issue of Recoil Offgrid: Issue 27

Read articles from the previous issue of Recoil Offgrid: Issue 25

Check out our other publications on the web: Recoil | Gun Digest | Blade | RecoilTV | RECOILtv (YouTube)

Editor's Note: This article has been modified from its original version for the web.

New: Boker Plus Wasabi Folding Knife

Written by

Differing tasks require differing blades — you'd never chop wood with a scalpel or perform delicate surgical cuts with a machete. While a single mid-size every-day-carry knife can suffice for most ordinary tasks, it's nice to have a few folding knives to choose from, depending on your activities and attire. Often, all you may need is a small and lightweight pocket knife that won't feel like a boat anchor clipped to your pants. These light-use tools are sometimes classified as gentleman's knives.

Boker Plus Wasabi slipjoint folding knife pocketknife edc blade 3

German knife company Boker recently released a new folder called the Wasabi under its affordable Boker Plus line. The knife is a non-locking slipjoint — for those not familiar with this mechanism, it uses the tension of a backspring to hold the blade open or shut, rather than a lock. It also features a flipper for quick opening, and a slender tip-down pocket clip.

Boker Plus Wasabi slipjoint folding knife pocketknife edc blade 5

The Boker Plus Wasabi was designed by bladesmith Kansei Matsuno, and its slim shape and Japanese tantō profile match its origin. The blade is made of easy-to-sharpen 440C steel. Blade length is 2.88 inches; overall length is 7 inches.

Boker Plus Wasabi slipjoint folding knife pocketknife edc blade 4

This knife is available in three variations:

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The Road Less Traveled in a Yamaha Wolverine X4

Written by

Photos by Mark Saint

The dreaded, high-pitched buzz of the Emergency Broadcast System simultaneously came across my phone and television. I was finishing my coffee and bracing myself for Friday morning rush-hour traffic, but realized there was something unusual about this broadcast. I was so used to hearing the word “test” after these alerts began that I initially ignored what was being said. As the message continued past its usual duration I realized things were about to get hairy real quick.

Yamaha Wolverine X4 UTV review offroad bugout survival vehicle car truck 2

A massive chemical spill had occurred at a railway junction less than two miles from my home. The broadcast was unclear about the contaminants being released into the air, but what I knew for sure was that staying here was dangerous. It was time to beat feet. Since the freeways were gridlocked due to time of day and others surely looking to bail after hearing the broadcast, I determined that the best thing to do was to drive my UTV (Utility Task Vehicle) away from the direction of the accident using an escape route I’d plotted a while back. I grabbed my backpack, strapped down some other ancillaries as fast as I could, started up the UTV, and split like a bat out of hell toward my bug-out location.

This is Only a Test … This Time

Although the aforementioned prompt is fictitious, it’s meant to get you thinking about your means of transportation and evacuation plans if you were faced with a similar situation. The train crash mentioned was based on the Graniteville, South Carolina, rail disaster in 2005 where tanker cars hauling chlorine ruptured after a collision, releasing poison gas into the atmosphere. It was considered by many to be the worst chemical accident in U.S. history. Nine people were killed, several hundred were injured, and thousands were forced to flee their homes. Had winds been stronger, the death toll would’ve undoubtedly risen.

According to a Department of Transportation report, Train Wreck and Chlorine Spill in Graniteville, South Carolina by A.E. Dunning and Jennifer Oswalt, “The emergency response community has recognized a need to reduce the chaos of the type experienced in Graniteville. Poor communication between agencies and lack of clear decision-making authority exacerbated the disaster. Responders disagreed over how to evacuate the town, and this disagreement resulted in inaction. While the Reverse 911 system worked, the timing and decision making of the evacuation actions rendered the system only marginally effective. Responders couldn’t quickly and positively identify the hazardous material or the proper procedure.”

What does this tell you? As we’ve said in RECOIL OFFGRID before, sometimes you only have yourself to rely on. Unfortunately, in instances like this, hazardous materials are often transported through rural areas that are ill-equipped to deal with such a large-scale incident. When you combine that with bureaucratic bungling, sometimes it’s better to preplan rather than risk your life waiting for rescue personnel who could be hours away to handle the situation. That being said, how do you plan to evacuate if fleeing on foot may not be realistic?

Getting Out of Harm’s Way

Here we’re exploring the use of a UTV (also called a side-by-side) during bug-out for several reasons, including the number of advantages it offers over a conventional vehicle. We won’t get into criteria for selecting a temporary or permanent bug-out location, as that’s a whole other list of priorities to cogitate on. This article is more focused on what transportation you’ll use to get there and related considerations to make when traveling off-road.

There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to the method you use to evacuate, but there’s no perfect solution either. While every vehicle has strengths and weaknesses, consider that various catastrophes may render surface streets and highways impassable. Here are some things to keep in mind if you’re in the market for a UTV. Your initial intentions to buy an off-roader may be strictly recreational, but let’s examine how it could also double as a very practical escape vehicle.

Yamaha Wolverine X4 UTV review offroad bugout survival vehicle car truck 5

Why a UTV?

Mobility and Access: Remember that gridlock mentioned earlier? The UTV can get places a standard car or truck can’t. When the usual roads and highways are inaccessible or jammed with commuters, you may find yourself wishing you had an alternative to your daily driver. If you’re forced to cut through firebreaks, access roads, horse trails, or other off-road thoroughfares, a vehicle designed specifically to negotiate that kind of terrain could prove invaluable.

Maintenance: The more features you have on a vehicle, the more things can break. You won’t care about the convenience of cruise control or parking sensors during an emergency. A UTV’s simplicity makes it desirable since it’s devoid of the abundance of electronics most standard vehicles are becoming dependent on. UTVs are built for durability and easy maintenance or repair in the field.

Size/Signature: Not only does its smaller size and design enable a UTV to traverse unforgiving topography and obstacles, but it also increases your ability to remain hidden if necessary. It’s much harder to conceal a larger vehicle when parked, as well as the footprint it leaves behind. Having a smaller vehicle will draw less attention to your escape route. While you may be concerned about the noise UTVs make versus a car, there are plenty of mufflers and exhaust systems you can use to minimize sound output.

Modifications: The aftermarket support for UTVs is huge. Tons of companies offer modifications for your UTV’s drivetrain, suspension, lighting system, cargo storage, fuel capacity, and other features. One can easily upgrade a stock UTV to support a heavier payload or haul a trailer. It all depends on what your intentions are and how much weight in people or supplies you intend to carry. But rest assured that consumers have plenty of choices to improve upon the vehicle’s existing capabilities. Many require only basic tools and knowhow to install.

Where Are You Going?

Although many bemoan the range and carrying capacity of UTVs as being limited compared to standard vehicles, that may not necessarily be a deal breaker if you’ve preplanned your escape routes and destinations. The first determination you should make is whether the range of a UTV you’re considering is conducive to your destination. For instance, if your bug-out location is 100 miles away, can you get there on a full tank of gas with plenty of margin for emergency detours? How will that range be impacted by the amount of people and supplies you’re loading? Research the range, fuel capacity, and payload capacity of the vehicles you’re considering.

Determining possible routes out of the area shouldn’t be something you put off to the last minute. Unless you already have a bug-out location in mind, find some suitable spots that are reachable in a UTV. Plan alternate routes and revisit them every few months to confirm they’ve remained unfettered. Better yet, test them out with your UTV, preferably loaded up with supplies to ensure they’re as accessible as you think they are when you’re fully laden. Continued urban and suburban development has a way of throwing up obstacles and changing topography from when you initially scouted out access to a locale that works for your purposes. You might return to an escape route you’d planned out six months ago only to find much of the property has been built up, which forces you to rethink the whole strategy.

Yamaha Wolverine X4 UTV review offroad bugout survival vehicle car truck 1

What Should You Bring?

Your load-out, and the weight thereof, will be just one of the factors that affect fuel consumption. The range ratings for vehicles are measured on flat surfaces, so rough terrain, other passengers, and how heavy your right foot is are variables that make it difficult to determine the total range you’ll get out of an off-road vehicle. If you have friends with UTVs, borrowing theirs would be another way to help get an accurate idea of the range before you make that initial purchase. Do some test runs loaded up with the supplies you plan to bring so you have an accurate baseline of the fuel consumption. That will help determine how much extra fuel you should carry.

Fuel Storage: Aside from possibly adding a secondary tank, RotopaX or Cam Cans are great ways to store additional fuel or water on the vehicle and take up a bare minimum of space. Due to the additives and compounds found in modern pump gasoline in the U.S., assume fuel will begin degrading within a year or so to the point where it loses much of its volatility and gums up with resins. This may clog fuel lines and pumps. Even with stabilizers added, gasoline supplies should be rotated at least every six months if you plan to cache any fuel.

Yamaha Wolverine X4 UTV review offroad bugout survival vehicle car truck 4

Keeping current maps of the areas you need to travel through during an emergency is essential in the absence of GPS or...

Maps: Remember those? Local automotive stores and online retailers are great resources for maps. These will show off-road trails that your smartphone’s map app or GPS might not clearly identify (assuming you’ll even have reception). You can also visit MyTopo.com for USGS Topo, satellite, and even lake maps. Replace your maps every year or so to ensure you have the most up-to-date versions available.

Tools: Bolt cutters or a small breaching saw will come in handy if you have to cut through locks, chain-link fences, or barbed wire to save your skin. A toolkit consisting of wrenches, a ratchet and sockets, screwdrivers, locking pliers, zip ties, duct tape, epoxy, and a multi-tool should be enough for the repairs you may encounter during a breakdown. Many UTVs come with toolkits designed specifically for that vehicle. Aftermarket accessories such as a winch, Hi-Lift jack, and MaxTrax ramps can help you bail yourself out if you get stuck on a remote trail.

The rest of your supplies are only limited by your imagination. Carrying a tent, stove, cooler, flashlights, first-aid kit, binoculars, clothing, radio, fire-making supplies, power supply, and firearms/ammo is really up to the user. Assemble your desired contents and start Tetris-ing them onto the vehicle to figure out the best configuration to economize space and to get an idea of how much weight they’ll add.

Don't wait until an emergency arises to scout out potential bug-out locations. Do your homework on suitable places to hold up well in advance.

Don't wait until an emergency arises to scout out potential bug-out locations. Do your homework on suitable...

Do Your Homework

A golf cart is not a UTV, so don’t think it’s a suitable vehicle for driving on anything other than nicely manicured lawns. If you own a large piece of property and use construction or ranching-style vehicles to get around and perform menial tasks, don’t assume these will work for bug-out purposes either. Visit trusted manufacturers, test-drive as many as you can that are within your budget, ask about their warranty programs, and spend some time getting off-road training from certified instructors. Driving a car on surface streets is vastly different than driving an open-cockpit vehicle like a UTV through rough terrain during an emergency, especially if you have no prior experience.

Also, ask yourself if you can save weight by taking off anything that you feel is unnecessary for your intentions (and consider if removing those items will void your warranty). Spare tires or features meant to protect your suspension like glide plates should not be sacrificed to save weight. Spend some time changing parts yourself and outline some practice situations that would simulate problems you might encounter in an emergency. Extraction in water crossings, deep sand, mud, and low-light conditions are all great ways to become familiar with how the vehicle handles and what to do to mitigate potential obstacles. The more time you spend getting the feel for a UTV’s capabilities, the better off you’ll be if you have to make a quick departure. For a full review on the Yamaha Wolverine X4 SE seen here, check out Issue 37 of our sister publication, RECOIL.

Sources

Flashlight
SureFire EDCL2-T
www.surefire.com

Yamaha Wolverine X4 UTV review offroad bugout survival vehicle car truck 10

Tent
PahaQue Green Mountain 4XD – Blue
www.pahaque.com

Rifle Bag
5.11 Tactical VTAC MK II 42” Double Rifle Case / Rush Tier System
www.511tactical.com

Gloves
Mechanix Wear M-Pact Woodland Camo
www.mechanix.com

Tomahawk
SOG Knives Voodoo Hawk
www.sogknives.com

Stove
Camp Chef Rainier Campers Combo
www.campchef.com

Solar Charger/Panel/Power Bank
Goal Zero
Venture 70 Power Bank
Guardian 12V Plus Charge Controller
Nomad 28 Plus Solar Panel
www.goalzero.com

Extra Battery & Charger
Shorai LFX36A3-BS12 / Battery Management System (SHO-BMS01)
www.shoraipower.com

Yamaha Wolverine X4 UTV review offroad bugout survival vehicle car truck 8

Binoculars
Bushnell Engage 10×42
bushnell.com

UTV
Yamaha Wolverine X4
www.yamaha-motor.com

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Editor's Note: This article has been modified from its original version for the web.

What If Your Subway is Attacked With Chemical Weapons?

Written by

Illustrations by Joe Oesterle

The rhythmic vibrations of the subway car had almost lulled me back to sleep, even though the cabin was crowded with morning commuters. Strong scents wafted back and forth. The cologne and perfume of the passengers, as well as the countless cups of coffee, created a riot of scents assaulting my nose. I tried to ignore the odors in my groggy state, shutting my eyes and blocking everything out. It was working, until the passengers at the end of the subway car started screaming and a new smell caught my attention.

Nostrils stinging, I began to process the new information. My eyes opened as the stinging sensation traveled from my nose into the back of my throat. Scent can trigger memory, and as I fumbled for recognition, it hit me — bleach, it smelled like chlorine bleach! As frightened people began to rush past me, I wondered if this would be my last subway ride.

For this episode of RECOIL OFFGRID’s “What If?” column, the editors gave us a nasty urban nightmare. We had to work our way through a terrorist attack in a crowded subway car. Continuing our new format, the editors asked us to explain what we would personally do in these emergency situations. This isn’t some random character stumbling through a scenario, this is exactly what we’d do in a packed subway car full of panicked people and poisonous fumes. Try not to hold your breath while reading!

The Scenario

SITUATION TYPE
Traveling to work
YOUR CREW
You
LOCATION
New York City
SEASON
Spring
WEATHER
Rainy; high 47 degrees F, low 39 degrees F

The Setup: There’s been recent news of intercepted communications that an unnamed terrorist group is threatening to attack a major New York City subway line with a chemical gas attack. It has been two months since the initial reports, but media coverage has subsided so you begin to assume the reports may have been exaggerated. While these current events are still unfolding, you’re attending a daylong lecture at Columbia University.

Chemical weapon attack subway what if survival preparedness emergency shtf 3

Since you don’t own a car and the subway is your usual method of travel, you board the subway near your home at the Bedford Park Station at around 7 a.m. on your way to the 116th Street station near the University. The train is full of the usual commuters and nothing seems out of place.

The Complication: After the train stops at the 155th Street station and then resumes its course, you notice a commotion in the car behind you. People start fleeing that car and entering yours, covering their mouths with their hands and clothing, acting like they’re in pain and choking. At this moment, you notice a distinct acrid smell and yellow-green haze that, based on your research and knowledge, you believe to be chlorine gas.

You suspect your subway has been the victim of a chlorine gas attack/domestic terror incident. The conductor is obviously not aware of what’s going on. What can you do? There may be multiple chemical gas attacks happening simultaneously in various cars; you’re just not sure yet. What steps can you take to help protect yourself, save lives, and alert authorities?

SURVIVAL EXPERT: Tim MacWelch's Approach

Prep

The sprawling public transportation system of New York City safely moves over 1-billion people a year, but with the threat of a terrorist attack in my mind I’d think long and hard whether to ride a subway car with that looming threat. Sure, more people die every year from automobile accidents than train wrecks and terrorist attacks combined — so much so that car accident fatalities rarely make the news. But that doesn’t mean that I’d be eager to get into a crowded underground facility with limited exit strategies.

In my preparation, job one is to study the subway transit system. Learn its routes, its safety procedures, and escape routes, with particular attention to obvious bottlenecks or other points that would hinder evacuation.

My second specific piece of preparation for this type of threat would be to research previous terrorist attacks on subway cars and trains. In 2004 in Madrid, terrorists set off 10 backpack bombs on the commuter rail network, killing 191 people and wounding more than 1,800. One year later, a sarin gas attack occurred in a Tokyo subway. This attack was perpetrated by the Aum Shinrikyo (Supreme Truth) cult, a group of doomsday fanatics with thousands of followers all over Japan. Their insane leader, Shoko Asahara, gained access to the wealth of his followers and employed a chemist to create the sarin gas weapons that killed 12 people and injured more than 5,000. While the motives of these nut jobs are part of the research, their methods would be my primary area of focus.

My next job would be to research respiratory devices. Many of us include simple masks (like an N95 mask) in our everyday preps, but it’s largely useless in a gas attack. Vapors, fumes, and gases go right through the mask — just like the air we breathe. And even though N95 masks will filter out anthrax and the cough droplets that transport the flu virus, you’ll need something made for gases to remove them from the air you’ll breathe.

One commonly available filter that can be found at most home improvement stores and attached to half masks or full face masks is the 3M Multi Gas/Vapor Cartridge (filter #60926). This affordable cartridge can attach to a variety of respirator masks and remove chlorine, hydrogen chloride, chlorine dioxide, plus a number of other nasty chemicals. Just remember that a mask is only as effective as the surface it seals against. Mustache, no problem. Soul patch, OK. But full beards keep the rubber mask from sealing against your skin.

As my final prep for close-quarters travel on a subway, I’d want a city-friendly EDC kit. This assortment of everyday carry gear would include a whistle, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and a small pry bar. It wouldn’t hurt to have an element that prepares you for a possible chemical attack too (besides the respirator). A product called Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion is now available to civilians. RSDL is the only decontaminant cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to remove or neutralize chemical warfare agents such as tabun, sarin, soman, cyclohexyl sarin, VR, VX, mustard gas, and T-2 toxin. It’s a simple little packet of lotion-like neutralizer. Each kit comes with instructions and a training product, so you can get a feel for it through realistic practice. It also comes with a packet of decontaminant for one person, which removes the chemical agent from the skin in a single step. It won’t help with our chlorine gas scenario, but against other agents — it’s better to have it and not need it ….

On Site

After deciding to take the subway, my first safety precaution would be to choose what I perceive to be the safest car on the train. But which car should I choose?

Conventional wisdom would lead us to believe that the front and rear cars of a subway train (or other type of train) are the most dangerous places in a crash. The front car would take the brunt of the damage in the event of a head-on collision, with the rear car taking damage if the train were rear-ended. But a terrorist attack is a very different event compared to a train wreck. In the event of a terrorist attack, the most crowded car would likely be the most tempting target.

Just one example of this sinister planning can be seen in the London subway bombings of July 7, 2005. In this attack, three suicide bombers detonated explosives onboard subway trains during the busy morning commute. While a number of people were also killed and injured that morning in a double-decker bus bombing perpetrated by a fourth group member, the subway portion of the attack killed 39 people and wounded hundreds more. Each of the three subway bombers sat or stood near the train doors, where the highest concentration of passengers would be located.

From my perspective, the least populated car is the least desirable target for someone intent on causing mass casualties. Once onboard the undesirable subway car, I’d take history’s lesson to heart and stay away from the double doors in the car. Sure, this would typically result in more walking, but that’s a small price to pay for a greater margin of safety. And whether I was in the subway in NYC or in a tube in any other part of the world, I’d find the emergency exits and alarms.

Once I’ve chosen my seat on the unpopular car (story of my life), I’d still remain vigilant for suspicious activity. In a less populated car, there would be fewer people to observe for any odd behavior or packages. This quieter area might be chosen as a setup or staging area, where a terrorist could potentially prepare to launch an attack.

The Crisis

Chemical weapon attack subway what if survival preparedness emergency shtf 1

In the midst of a chlorine gas attack on a subway, with the circumstances still unclear, the first thing I’d do is use the passenger alarm or passenger emergency intercoms to notify the train crew that something was seriously wrong. I’d have scouted out the location of these when boarding. Once the commotion started and I smelled a noxious gas, that’s the time to hit the “panic button,” though I’d want to avoid actual panic internally and avoid the frightened throngs of people that may be rushing my way. I could also try 911 on my phone, but there are no guarantees with mobile phone reception in a tunnel. It’s also possible that the systems that support the phones would be flooded with calls during a crisis.

As for my position, I wouldn’t want to be far from an emergency exit, but at the same time I wouldn’t want to be in a spot where a crowd could crush me up against a wall or unopened door.
I definitely wouldn’t try to get down low toward the floor. First, gaseous weapons wouldn’t necessarily rise like smoke, and secondly, I don’t want to be trampled.

Once I sounded the alarm, I wouldn’t expect the train to stop between stations. If I had a multi-gas half-mask, I’d don the respirator and hide the mask by pulling up my shirt. I wouldn’t want desperate people to rip the mask from my face. With the mask covered by clothing, I’d look like everyone else.

Without a multi-gas respirator, I’d have few choices for protection. I could use clothing as a filter and also attempt to limit my breathing. I could also try to move to an area with clearer air. If the agent gives any visual cues, such as dust, haze, or color — you could move the other way. Once the car stops (on route or at a station), I’d get out and seek medical attention. I may not immediately notice signs or symptoms of poisoning, so outside help is definitely warranted.

PHYSICIAN AND INSTRUCTOR: Lorenzo Paladino’s Approach

Prep

Chlorine gas forms hydrochloric acid on contact when it’s inhaled. Its victims suffocate to death from fluid accumulating in their damaged lungs, and escape is difficult when afflicted with burning, tearing eyes. There has been increased chatter of credible threats, and you know the subway has been targeted before. Preparing for your commute under these circumstances isn’t being overly paranoid, it’s the responsible thing to do.

Packing for the commute: Many discreet tactical bags, eschew an overtly military look, while still featuring plenty of rapid-access pouches, MOLLE, and Velcro in the interior to hold all your essential gear. While many are primarily designed to facilitate the quick draw of a firearm, in this situation having instant access to the key contents such as those below can be just as life saving.
Flashlight. In a confined space, a little bit of smoke or gas can severely limit your visibility. Also, yellow/amber lenses seem to reflect less (or appear to reflect less) than standard white light on particulates in the air (smoke and fog).

A cell phone. Remember, many phones have a flashlight feature. While not as effective as a tactical flashlight, it’s another resource. Although your phone probably has a digital compass and GPS, the only directions you need to know are a route away from the source and up the stairs.

Backup power. A charger that’s rugged, drop-proof, water-resistant, and has a built-in light can serve as an emergency backup to your primary light. Redundancy is always good. Aside from your phone, it can also power a rechargeable flashlight, should the situation get prolonged.

Knife or multitool. Assuming local laws permit carrying such an item, something sturdy that can pry and has a glass breaker is ideal. The glass on the trains is heavy duty and won’t shatter as easily as a car windshield. They also have a plastic film that’ll keep the glass in place to avoid injuring others when blown out. For these reasons, they’ll require a forceful shove or kick after being shattered. You may have to kick through broken glass, and in the worst case, walk on the tracks.

Footwear. I’d wear a trail running shoe that’s sturdy enough for climbing but comfortable to run fast in.

Gloves. Another carry item to consider is heavy work gloves. These will come in handy in case you have to hold onto a windowpane studded with broken glass and for climbing over debris once the train stops.

Bottled water mixed with baking soda (sodium bicarbonate). This mixture can be used to flush your face and wash out eyes if they’re tearing and getting blurry.

Respiratory protection. A CBRN (Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear) mask isn’t as common or easy to carry as the above items, but there really is no safe solution that can be improvised. There are historic accounts of soldiers using urine-soaked socks to combat chlorine gas in WWI. This doesn’t work well in actual practice (not enough ammonia) or logistically on a subway with only seconds of warning.

In a pinch, you could pour the water and bicarbonate solution over a thick cotton rag and attempt to breathe through it. You’d probably still get sick, but maybe not as sick as having nothing. Wool shouldn’t be used as it’s too difficult to breathe through when wet. Another problem is that holding the rag tightly to your nose and mouth would tie up your hands, impeding your escape.

Emergency escape hoods. These are a more practical alternative to carrying a bulky full gas mask on a commute all the time. More importantly, when an attack happens, you’ll have little to no warning and will need to resort to something you can deploy and don quickly. Emergency escape hoods are one-time-use head coverings with built-in filters and an elastic neck seal. It’s as fast and simple as opening the wrapper and pulling it over your head. They’re packaged small enough to fit in your bag, briefcase, or in a pouch on your belt. Emergency hoods provide chemical air filtration for 15 to 60 minutes, enough to escape a situation. They should deploy in one step, without straps to adjust. You should look for hoods that are CBRN-rated and “NIOSH-approved” (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health). The Avon NH 15 and RSG CE 200 series are a few models that fit this need nicely.

Like all emergency equipment, you should train and familiarize yourself with their use before you use them in a real situation.

For even more portability, rapid deployment, and a quarter of the cost, Scott Safety has an alternative — the Emergency Escape Mouth Bit Respirator. It’s like the mouthpiece of a snorkel with a filter attached, so it won’t protect your eyes and face. You could put on swim or ski goggles if using this option.

It’s important to point out that gas masks and hoods filter air but don’t create oxygen. In a scenario of a confined space where a poison gas is displacing atmospheric gases, this deadly fact should be kept in mind. A solution to this and alternate option to an emergency hood is to carry a small portable air supply. The aviation industry uses the HEED (Helicopter Emergency Egress Device) and the diving industry uses a version called Spare Air. It’s basically a small scuba tank the size of the water bottle you carry to the gym, so it’ll fit in your commute bag. It supplies approximately 30 breaths or up to 3 minutes of air. Considering the average subway stops are two minutes apart, it should give you what you need to get out.

Swim or ski goggles. These are useful if you don’t opt for the escape hood, or as a backup to it. They can help to minimize burning to your eyes from the irritating gases, so you can preserve your vision while looking for an escape. Mucous membranes absorb faster than skin, so they may decrease the possible surface area for entry while protecting your eyes from burns and blinding. It’s not what will kill you, but being blind in the subway might.

I wouldn’t carry a chemical suit as it takes minutes to get into and tape up. Many aren’t available commercially anyway without special certifications and substantial training to use properly. It’s impractical to don in a subway car full of panicking people and will waste precious time. Suiting up can take several minutes, whereas escaping can take seconds.

Know your environment: The NYC subway system maintains two separate fleets with at least three different model cars. The dimensions of subway cars vary from 51 to 75 feet in length and 8 to 10 feet in width. Know how many steps this translates to for you. On average it’ll be approximately 22 to 32 steps in length, depending on the car. I do a similar calculation in airplanes, counting steps from the entrance to my seat. I also count headrests with my hand.

In a dark or smoke-filled airplane, you may lose track of steps because you’re taking longer strides or jumping over things, so the number of seats you can touch by extending your hand while running is a nice tactile backup. You can also make it a game during your morning commute to count how many stairs and steps from turnstile to platform edge. This will give you an idea of the average distance you’ll need to cover to reach the relative safety of outdoors.

On Site

Sit at the front of the compartment by the door between the cars. This door is easy to open (even when the train is moving), doesn’t require the train to be stopped, and doesn’t have to be pried open to escape the compartment. In a panic, most people will stampede and crowd the exit doors to the platform; not many will think of escaping through the door in between cars if the train is stopped.

If the train is moving, people will quickly realize your door is their only escape, so be prepared for the rush toward you and possibly getting crushed. Being between cars while the train is moving is dangerous, but when the train comes to a stop you can jump to the platform from there. If you can, continue into the next car and keep moving further and further away from the attack, putting more distance between you and ground zero.

Why the front end of the compartment as opposed to the rear? It increases your likelihood of being upstream from an incident if it occurs. If gas is escaping a stricken car and spreading to other compartments, in a moving train it’ll spread primarily backward, pushed by the wind currents, not forward and up wind in the direction of motion. You want to get upwind.

Crisis

When it comes to communicating for help and alerting authorities, the NYC subway system offers Wi-Fi and cellular service in all its stations. In a simple gas attack without structural damage from an explosion or collapse, the system will likely still be functional. Texts require less bandwidth than cellular calls. Oftentimes, a signal too weak for a successful phone call will still be sufficient to bounce around and eventually complete a text or post to social media.

Chemical weapon attack subway what if survival preparedness emergency shtf 2

If signal isn’t good enough to call for help, you can alert authorities using these means. The NYPD and many large city law enforcement agencies have social media accounts such as Twitter and Facebook. The use of social media to alert and contact for help has been proven in disasters before. You should move toward the very front car of the train, placing the largest distance possible between you and the gas release and alerting the train operator to what is happening. They can radio the authorities.

If you’re stuck in a compartment that is gassed and can’t get out for whatever reason (doors jammed, crowd density, etc.), use your glass breaker on the windows and start ventilating to dilute the gas. This is where you’ll be thankful that you always put your EDC gear in the same place in your bag every time and have rehearsed grabbing each item without looking. You need to find that glass breaker in low visibility, heavy smoke, or through tearing eyes. Instruct other passengers in the car to “ventilate” the train too.

Keep in mind you don’t want to stick your body too far out of the broken window if the train is in motion, as you can get hit by a passing column. Stand on seats or climb up a pole if you can. The gas is heavier than air, so the higher you go, the less the concentration of the chemical agent.

This is the opposite of the crawl you’re taught to avoid smoke when escaping from a fire. The reality is that this principle works best when we’re dealing with greater heights, such as going up another floor or two, not so much the 2 feet you get by standing on a seat, but it may buy you a few seconds as you survey your escape route and break glass. If you were out of the train, getting to a higher level by stairs should definitely result in a noticeable change in concentration gradient of the gas.

Though getting away from the gas is the single most important key to survival, if stopped in a tunnel, leaving the train and heading out has its own hazards. There’s also the danger of being hit by another train or coming into contact with the electrical supply and being electrocuted. Also, the tracks are the lowest point in the station and that’s where the gas accumulates. Many of the tunnels are several blocks long. You’ll have to weigh these dangers and decide if it’s worth the risk.

Trains are frequent targets for terrorists. Escaping the epicenter of the attack to the outside is the key. Dilution is your friend — get to higher ground, as most chemical gases sink.

Conclusion

Terrorism does part of its job when people are harmed, but it also succeeds when people are afraid to go about their normal lives. Terror attacks instill people with fear, in addition to causing physical harm to people, systems, and places. This threat may cause some people to go about their business with a sense of unease. It may keep people from traveling to crowded places or visiting certain cities that may be considered a likely target. Or it may leave people paralyzed with paranoia.

So how do we find a balance between keeping ourselves and our families safe and walking boldly through life? Terrorists win when good people cower in fear, but this doesn’t mean we should be foolhardy in our defiance and willingly place ourselves in harm’s way to prove how brave we are. There’s always a middle road we can travel, avoiding the greatest risks while exercising reasonable caution. And the key to staying on this middle road is situational awareness. During your daily routine, pay attention to people, places, situations, and your instincts. Be vigilant as you go about your day. Transform from a nation of sheep into a nation of sheepdogs, ever watching for the wolves that would try to harm the helpless.

Meet Our Panel

Tim MacWelch

Tim MacWelch has been a survival instructor for more than 20 years, training people from all walks of life, including members from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, the State Department, DOD, and DOJ personnel. He’s a frequent public speaker for preparedness groups and events. He’s also the author of three New York Times-bestselling survival books, and the new Ultimate Bushcraft Survival Manual. When he’s not teaching survival or writing about it, MacWelch lives a self-reliant lifestyle with his family in Virginia. Check out his wide range of hands-on training courses that are open to the public at www.advancedsurvivaltraining.com.

Lorenzo Paladino

Lorenzo Paladino MD is an emergency physician at a large trauma center and an EMS medical director. He’s an advanced trauma life support and a tactical combat casualty care (TCCC) instructor, frequently working with DOJ, DOD, Air Force Pararescue (PJs), Army Special Forces, and SWAT personnel. Dr. Paladino is a Team One Network instructor (teamonenetwork.com) and a medical director for ADS Medical Support Team International on overseas deployments. Expertise includes penetrating trauma, critical care, blast injuries, injury ballistics, chemical attacks, austere and hostile environments, K9 medicine, scuba rescue, and emergencies. He can be contacted at Lorenzo.Paladino@gmail.com.

More From Issue 26

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Read articles from the next issue of Recoil Offgrid: Issue 27

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Editor's Note: This article has been modified from its original version for the web.

Pocket Preps: Identification Lights

Written by

Compared to other members of the animal kingdom, humans have a major deficiency: poor night vision. As ambient light fades, our eyes struggle to perceive even the faintest outlines of objects in our immediate vicinity. This poses a safety risk during nighttime group activities such as hiking and cycling, since it’s easy to get disoriented and separated when you can’t clearly see your friends. It’s also a hazard in urban environments, because motorists may struggle to see you from a distance. And in a SHTF situation, a persistent light source provides the means to signal for rescue after dark.

A flashlight or headlamp can illuminate your field of view, but these directional light sources aren’t ideal tools for making others aware of your position (at least not without temporarily blinding them). Enter the identification light, a device designed to attach to your gear and provide a source of long-lasting, clearly visible light. Identification lights are typically compact, lightweight, and durable — some are even intended to be disposable one-time-use items.

Pocket Preps identification lights flashlight clip light LED chemlight glow stick 1

The most commonly known ID light is the chemlight, also called a glowstick. These flexible plastic tubes contain a glass ampoule that can be snapped to mix two chemicals, inducing a reaction known as chemluminescence. This reaction can be calibrated by the manufacturer to glow dimly for a long period or brightly for a short while, but either way, the stick’s light will gradually fade after a few hours. Chemlights are still commonly used today, but technological advancements have made ultra-compact LED lights a viable alternative. LED identification lights can be reused and often feature multiple output colors or modes.

We collected and evaluated seven compact lights that are ideal for nighttime identification, or for use in situations where only a small amount of diffuse light is needed, such as reading a map or illuminating the inside of a tent. Consider one of these lights as a supplement to your current flashlight or headlamp.

Streamlight ClipMate USB

OFGP-180800-POCKET-19.jpg

Claimed Maximum Brightness
70 lumens

Claimed Maximum Runtime
65 hours

Dimensions
3.1 by 2 by 0.7 inches

Weight
1.9 ounces

Battery Type
Built-in lithium-polymer rechargeable

Controls
Push-button switch

Output Modes
low/high red, low/high white

MSRP
$55

URL
streamlight.com

OFGP-180800-POCKET-21.jpg

Notes
With a flexible neck and slim rectangular body, the ClipMate USB is just the right size for a shirt pocket. Its strong metal clip also fits nicely on PALS webbing loops, 1.5-inch belts, or a hat brim. When light is needed, the segmented neck can be aimed precisely in any direction, casting a dense spot beam. The ClipMate includes red and white output modes, which can be accessed by either a short-press or long-press of the top-mounted power button (short-press turns on the last-used mode). This light is also USB-rechargeable via a hidden charge tab that enables the user to plug it directly into any USB outlet or computer port. Streamlight says it can be fully charged in 2.5 hours, and it’s rechargeable up to 300 times.

Pros:

  • Flexible neck allows for targeted hands-free illumination
  • Red light is directly accessible, preserving the user’s night vision

Cons:

  • Tight spotlight beam pattern is too focused for identification purposes
  • Integrated charge tab hangs the light precariously on a USB port while charging and blocks nearby ports. Its cover is also easily dislodged, allowing for ingress of water and dust.

Nite Ize TagLit

OFGP-180800-POCKET-13.jpg

Claimed Maximum Brightness
Unlisted

Claimed Maximum Runtime
70 hours

Dimensions
2.2 by 1.6 by 0.5 inches (folded)

Weight with battery
0.5 ounces

Battery Type
CR2032 lithium (one, included)

Controls
Push-button switch, press repeatedly to change modes

Output Modes
Green flashing or constant-on

MSRP
$10

URL
niteize.com

OFGP-180800-POCKET-15.jpg

Notes
This magnetic LED marker light features a folding design with two strong neodymium magnets that can adhere to the edge of any shirt, jacket, hat, headlamp band, or even a dog collar. The TagLit is available in three high-visibility colors: red, pink, or neon yellow. The former two feature four red LEDs, and the latter features four green LEDs; all include stripes of reflective silver for an additional boost in visibility. A hidden pressure switch under the power symbol turns the light on and cycles between its two modes. Nite Ize doesn’t advertise an exact lumen output for this light, but we’d guess it’s around 5 — plenty to alert motorists of your position during a nighttime jog. Clipped to the brim of a ball cap, this light can also be used for map reading and other low-light tasks.

Pros:

  • Magnetic clasp attaches securely to clothing and other gear
  • Bright color and reflective accents increase visibility

Cons:

  • Weather-resistant but not waterproof
  • Slightly too wide to fit into PALS webbing loops

Princeton Tec Amp 1L

OFGP-180800-POCKET-16.jpg

Claimed Maximum Brightness
90 lumens

Claimed Maximum Runtime
72 hours

Dimensions
5.1 by 1.4 inches (including cone)

Weight with battery
2.2 ounces

Battery Type
AAA (two, included)

Controls
Twist head

Output Modes
On-off only

MSRP
$20

URL
princetontec.com

OFGP-180800-POCKET-18.jpg

Notes
The Maxbright LED in the Amp 1L produces 90 lumens and gradually ramps down brightness to yield a 72-hour run time from its AAA batteries. Twisting the rubberized bezel turns on the light, and pressing on the included cone diffuser attachment scatters the beam into a broad lantern-style pattern. The light can then be attached to a tent loop or ridgeline with a carabiner to illuminate your campsite, or used as an ordinary flashlight with the cone removed. Half of the light’s polymer body is rubberized for extra grip, and it’s fully O-ring-sealed for an impressive waterproof rating. The loop at the tail end of the Amp 1L also features a bottle opener tab in case you need a way to open a cold beverage. Made in the USA.

Pros:

  • Bright, diffuse light works great as a mini-lantern
  • With the cone removed, it works equally well as a spotlight
  • IPX8 waterproof to 100 meters

Cons:

  • Bottle opener seems like an afterthought, and can’t be used when the light is attached to a carabiner
  • The cone attachment is held in place by friction alone
  • Single output mode limits versatility

Nitecore NU05

OFGP-180800-POCKET-10.jpg

Claimed Maximum Brightness
35 lumens

Claimed Maximum Runtime
20 hours

Dimensions
1.2 by 1.2 by 0.6 inches

Weight with battery
0.4 ounces

Battery Type
3.7v 120mAh lithium-ion rechargeable

Controls
Push-button switch, press repeatedly to change modes, press and hold for lockout

Output Modes
Red LED indicator, slow flash, or fast flash; white LED slow flash or constant-on

MSRP
$20 with headlamp/bike kit, $15 for light only

URL
nitecore.com

OFGP-180800-POCKET-12.jpg

Notes
Nitecore calls this tiny light a “headlamp mate” due to its ability to be used in tandem with a full-size headlamp, either clipped to the back of the head strap or worn elsewhere on the body. As a result, the NU05 is tailored to identification purposes. It features a total of five LEDs — two white, two red, and one low-output red indicator light — each of which includes a flashing mode. The NU05 also features one 35-lumen constant-on setting that can be paired with an optional head strap and bike mount bracket kit to provide emergency illumination. The built-in battery will last just one hour when used this way but can be quickly recharged via a micro-USB port. We noted that this light is the perfect size to clip onto a single loop of PALS webbing, making it a valuable accessory for nighttime hiking or backpacking.

Pros:

  • Tiny size and light weight make it an ideal backup for emergency use
  • For an extra $5, the head band and bike mount kit add versatility.
  • IP66 waterproof

Cons:

  • Short battery life when used in constant-on mode
  • Lacks constant-on mode for red LEDs

COAST HX4 Cliplight

OFGP-180800-POCKET-04.jpg

Claimed Maximum Brightness
80 lumens

Claimed Maximum Runtime
3 hours 45 minutes

Dimensions
3.1 by 1.8 by 1.2 inches

Weight with battery
1.8 ounces

Battery Type
AAA (two, included)

Controls
Push-button switch, press repeatedly to cycle through modes

Output Modes
White constant-on, red constant-on

MSRP
$18

URL
coastportland.com

OFGP-180800-POCKET-06.jpg

Notes
This new LED light is available in a variety of color configurations that include white plus red, blue, green, and/or ultraviolet. The HX4 features a spring-loaded pocket clip that allows the light to be easily attached to the hem of a pocket, PALS webbing on a MOLLE-compatible pack, or the brim of a hat. Four small magnets are also attached to the corners of the clip, providing more hands-free mounting options. COAST says the light’s head rotates 180 degrees, but we’d say it’s closer to 220. Combined with the wide flood beam, this makes the HX4 ideal for illuminating a workbench while mounted on your shirt pocket or lighting your path while mounted on your belt. Pressing the large rubberized power button turns it on in white mode; pressing again cycles through other colors.

Pros:

  • Wide beam pattern provides a smooth wash of light for your work area
  • Clips onto gear in a variety of locations, and can be aimed easily by rotating the head

Cons:

  • White light must be turned on before other colors, potentially impacting night vision.
  • An additional low-output mode would’ve been helpful to extend run time.

Fenix CL09

OFGP-180800-POCKET-07.jpg

Claimed Maximum Brightness
200 lumens

Claimed Maximum Runtime
150 hours (90 with included battery)

Dimensions
3.1 by 0.9 inches

Weight with battery
1.8 ounces

Battery Type
ARB-L16-700U rechargeable (one, included) or CR123A (not included)

Controls
Twist tail cap, twist on and off repeatedly to cycle through modes

Output Modes
Low, medium, high, turbo, red, red flashing, green

MSRP
$45

URL
fenixlight.com

OFGP-180800-POCKET-09.jpg

Notes
Serving as a hybrid between an identification light and a miniature lantern, the CL09 can sit upright on any flat surface, hang from a small carabiner, or slide securely into PALS webbing. There’s also a magnet in its tail cap, making it a good hands-free work light. This light includes Fenix’s ARB-L16-700U battery, which features a micro-USB charging port, but it also accepts more common rechargeable CR123A (aka 16340) and standard CR123A batteries. Twisting the tail cap repeatedly cycles through a total of seven modes, with a white light that ranges from 1 to 200 lumens, as well as 5-lumen red and green. The anodized aluminum body is available in either black or gray finish.

Pros:

  • White setting works great as a mini-lantern for your campsite; red and green modes can be used for identification or signaling.
  • Magnetic tail cap adds versatility
  • IP68 waterproof to 2-meter immersion

Cons:

  • Red and green light modes aren’t directly accessible
  • Included Fenix battery has a convenient charging port, but offers 40-percent shorter maximum run time than a standard CR123 (90 hours versus 150 hours).

Blue Force Gear MARCO Marking System

OFGP-180800-POCKET-01.jpg

Claimed Maximum Brightness
Unlisted

Claimed Maximum Runtime
4 hours at maximum intensity, more than 24 hours total glow time

Dimensions
6 by 3 by 0.75 inches

Weight
3.8 ounces

Battery Type
None

Controls
Push forward to partially eject a marking stick, then bend upward to snap and activate light

Output Modes
Available in red, green, blue, or infrared

MSRP
$65

URL
blueforcegear.com

OFGP-180800-POCKET-03.jpg

Notes
This system was originally designed to identify cleared rooms inside a building. Instead of carrying a handful of loose chemlights, the MARCO enabled quick access to dozens of smaller marking lights. The system has many non-combat applications, such as marking a trail or tracking downed game animals. The MARCO’s tough polycarbonate dispenser features a spring-loaded follower that feeds 30 2-inch sticks to the top one at a time. These sticks can be activated one-handed by bending them upward with your forefinger as they’re dispensed. Various optional storage pouches are available. Made in the USA.

Pros:

  • Easy to activate and deploy several light sticks with one hand
  • Ideal for identifying multiple items or individuals
  • Color options increase versatility

Cons:

  • No built-in way to attach the sticks to gear, although we found sandwiching one behind the edge of a Velcro patch works well.
  • You’ll need to use all 30 lights in a short time frame, since the active chemicals begin degrading as soon as the dispenser is unwrapped.
  • Each dispenser is designed as a single-use item.

More From Issue 26

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Read articles from the next issue of Recoil Offgrid: Issue 27

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Editor's Note: This article has been modified from its original version for the web.

Issue 26 Gear Up

Written by

OFGP-180800-GEARUP-PROMETHEUS-01.jpg

Make & Model
Prometheus Design Werx Raider Pant

Colors
Dark Arid Earth (shown), Dark Leaf Green, Machine Mineral Gray

MSRP
$129

URL
prometheusdesignwerx.com

Notes
We’re sick of poorly designed cargo pants being labeled as either technical or tactical pants. Fortunately, the Raider Pant has arrived to blow away its competition with superior protection, comfort, and versatility. It has a double seat reinforcement, diamond-shaped gusset panel, reinforced and articulated knees, and triple needle stitching on major seams — all of which spell durability and flexibility while you’re hitting backcountry trails or the firing range. Made from Mil-spec cotton-nylon ripstop, this pant has dedicated EDC tool pockets, hidden pocket for cuff key or cash, horizontal hand pockets that clear padded belts or backpack straps, and many more smart features. Yet, the Raider Pant has a modern regular fit with a streamlined appearance so you’ll look good strutting down the street or hiking through the backcountry.

OFGP-180800-GEARUP-511-01.jpg

Make & Model
5.11 Tactical Cascadia Windbreaker Jacket

Colors
Black, Curry, Lake, Stampede, TDU Green (shown)

MSRP
$80

URL
511tactical.com

Notes
Whether you’re camping overnight, hiking to higher elevations, or need backup apparel in case of a bug-out scenario, outerwear is a smart thing to have regardless of the season. After all, clothing is the first form of shelter. The Cascadia Windbreaker Jacket is a lightweight option that matches most everyday clothes, but can also serve as a shield against the elements. When not in use, it can be packed into the chest pocket and (thanks to an internal hanger loop) attached to a hook, branch, or carabiner. The 100-percent polyester shell features YKK zippers and soft brushed tricot lining on the chin guard and hand pockets. Speaking of which, the pockets have an internal pass-through, allowing you to access your concealed-carry pistol.

OFGP-180800-GEARUP-ARCTERYX-02.JPG

Make & Model
Arc’teryx Norvan LD Shoe

Sizes
Men’s: 7 to 13
Women’s: 5 to 10

MSRP
$160

URL
arcteryx.com

Notes
Wearing sandals during a fast-moving disaster is like wearing wingtips to the beach. A pair of off-road-worthy footwear is good not just for hiking or trail-running, but also for hauling ass in a SHTF situation. The Norvan LD lineup makes the ideal low-cut bug-out shoe because they’re designed for maximum comfort on long trail runs. Lightweight yet supportive, it’s built on a Vibram Megagrip outsole that has grippy treads for handling tough terrain, yet is comfortable on pavement. The shoe is also breathable, regulating foot temperature by allowing moisture vapor to escape when things heat up. It comes in various colors for both men and women.

OFGP-180800-GEARUP-WAZOO-01.jpg

Make & Model
Wazoo Survival Gear Blackticool Cache Cap

Number of Pockets
Six

MSRP
$30

URL
wazoosurvivalgear.com

Notes
Wazoo’s original Cache Cap soon became a fan favorite thanks to its six hidden pockets that can be used to stash everything from cash and credit cards to a 2-inch firesteel and water purification tablets. After a couple of years of listening to customer feedback, Wazoo is now releasing an all-black tactical version of its baseball hat that’s made of lightweight ripstop, has a buttonless top for use with helmets and ear protection, and houses a front patch area with edgeless embroidery to show off your favorite morale patch. And like its predecessor, it has a half-dozen covert pockets that can hold small tools and accessories.

OFGP-180800-GEARUP-COPPER-02.JPG

Make & Model
Copper Basin Takedown Firearm Backpack

Dimensions
23 by 13 by 5 inches

MSRP
$100

URL
copperbasingear.com

Notes
When it comes to firearms, many survivalists advocate for a takedown-style rifle for portability, among many other reasons. But discreetly carrying one is just as important as owning one in a post-SHTF scenario. This Copper Basin backpack is dimensioned specifically for popular takedown-style guns, such as the 10/22 Takedown, KRISS Vector, and AR pistols. The exterior is devoid of PALS webbing and looks similar to common hiking packs, but the interior has sections and pockets to house a disassembled rifle with mounted rail accessories, magazines, ammo, and other gear. To haul all that kit the pack has padded shoulder straps, adjustable sternum strap with a whistle buckle (for signaling), and a padded breathable backing with lumbar support, among other features.

OFGP-180800-GEARUP-NOCTURNA-02.JPG

Make & Model
Nocturna Ltd. Sentinel

Range
Up to 50 meters (54.7 yards)

MSRP
$300

URL
nocturna.us.com

Notes
The flashlight is one of the best tools you can have on hand. You can use it as an improvised weapon in addition to illuminating dark places and signaling for help. But that last benefit can be a disadvantage if you want to stay as hidden as possible, yet still be able to identify a threat. Enter the Nocturna Sentinel. It’s a handheld infrared camera that lets you see up to 50 meters in the dark through a 2.4-inch monitor. With a simple on/off button, this lightweight night-vision device is easy to use; just point and click. The Sentinel is most ideal for home or basecamp protection.

OFGP-180800-GEARUP-BROWNING-03.JPG

Make & Model
Browning Speed Load Saw

Overall Length
18.125 inches

MSRP
$40

URL
browning.com

Notes
The Speed Load Saw is half folding knife, half pole saw. It combines the teeth, extension, and functionality of the latter with the portability of the former. The goal of this tool is to have a powerful camp and big-game saw that’s simple to use, quick to pack up, and easy to stow. For example, you can use it to cut tree limbs to build a shelter or to process a kill that’s too heavy to drag back to basecamp whole. And using its locking wood screw on the butt-end of the handle, you can connect it to a right sized branch to turn it into a high-reaching pole saw. The saw comes with a nylon belt sheath, which has sleeves for storing the included extra blades.

OFGP-180800-GEARUP-WHITE-02.JPG

Make & Model
White River Knife & Tool FC 3.5 Pro

Overall Length
7.75 inches

MSRP
$135

URL
whiteriverknives.com

Notes
While big production knife companies are garnering a lot of attention for churning out the same old designs just with new steels and different names, White River quietly produces some of the most innovative survival knives on the market. It’s time to shine the spotlight on this Michigan-based company, especially its FC 3.5 Pro. The smallest knife of its Firecraft series has a 3.5-inch S35VN stainless steel blade above the textured but comfortable G-10 scales on its full-tang handle, which has a safety ring at the end for increased retention. Meanwhile, on the blade’s spine is a notch for striking the included ferro rod, making this survival knife ideal for camping, hunting, or backpacking. Comes with adjustable Kydex sheath.

More From Issue 26

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Read articles from the next issue of Recoil Offgrid: Issue 27

Read articles from the previous issue of Recoil Offgrid: Issue 25

Check out our other publications on the web: Recoil | Gun Digest | Blade | RecoilTV | RECOILtv (YouTube)

Editor's Note: This article has been modified from its original version for the web.

New: Updated CRKT Woods Chogan Tomahawk

Written by

A tomahawk is a handy tool to have for a variety of outdoor tasks, from heavy chopping and delicate cutting to use as a thrown weapon for hunting. Unlike axes or hatchets, a tomahawk generally has a straight and slender handle, making it easy to throw consistently. Modern “tactical” tomahawks have also become popular with law enforcement, military, and search-and-rescue organizations due to their versatility.

We wrapped the handle of our older Woods Chogan T-Hawk model in paracord.

We wrapped the handle of our older Woods Chogan T-Hawk model in paracord (tutorial link below).

Bladesmith and designer Ryan Johnson of RMJ Tactical is well-known for his tomahawk designs, but these high-end tools also bear a high-end price. In order to produce a more-affordable ‘hawk, Ryan teamed up with Columbia River Knife & Tool and released the CRKT Woods Chogan T-Hawk back in 2014. We own one of these original models — you can read about it here.

The new Black Woods Chogan T-Hawk is available directly through CRKT.

The new Black Woods Chogan T-Hawk is available directly through CRKT.

CRKT has released an updated version of the Woods Chogan T-Hawk, and it's exclusively available through the company's web site. The 1055 carbon steel head now has a corrosion-resistant magnesium-phosphate coating, which produces a black finish. The Tennessee hickory handle has been charred to bring out the grain and produce a darker look. It's then sealed with a durable coat of lacquer to repel moisture and preserve the finish.

CRKT Woods Chogan tomahawk ax black leather tool wood survival 4

Another update is the inclusion of a leather sheath that secures to the head with three snaps and protects the sharp edge.

CRKT Woods Chogan tomahawk ax black leather tool wood survival 2

Other than these changes, the Woods Chogan remains functionally the same. It still has the hammerhead opposite the blade, a feature we've found handy for pounding in tent pegs. Overall weight is just under 2 pounds; length is 19.1 inches. MSRP for the Black Woods Chogan and leather sheath is $70 — that's the same as the old version, which didn't include a sheath.

CRKT Woods Chogan tomahawk ax black leather tool wood survival 1

For more information on the new Black Woods Chogan Tomahawk, go to CRKT.com.

Can You Spot the Signs of a Phishing Scam?

Written by

Imitation is a powerful skill, and one that malicious individuals will use to their advantage. In the security world, the strategic use of manipulation techniques for criminal purposes is known as social engineering — you can read more about social engineering and its sub-categories in our previous article, Social Engineering: 5 Manipulation Techniques. Phishing is one common technique in which criminals attempt to steal sensitive information from unsuspecting victims by imitating a trusted person or organization.

Phishing cyber security tech infographic 2

In phishing scams, attackers will often set up elaborate email campaigns, web sites, or phone systems that closely resemble those used by legitimate entities. These can include popular tech companies like Facebook or Google, banks, or government organizations like the IRS. The victim often thinks they're communicating with the real deal, but every username, password, or credit card number submitted through these digital facades is immediately taken and exploited. This can result in severe financial losses or stolen identities.

Fortunately, with a healthy dose of skepticism and an eye for detail, it's often possible to detect these attacks before you fall victim to them. If you want to test your skills, check out the email image below and count how many phishing red flags you can spot:

Infographic phishing spyware scam digital security computer internet safety 1

There are at least 9 potential warning signs in this screenshot that should make you skeptical. For an explanation, check out the following infographic from Varonis. It lists the signs in the phishing email, and also shows some of the things to look for on a malicious landing page (i.e. the fake web page you'd end up on if you clicked the link in the email above). Click here to download a full-size version of this infographic.

Infographic phishing spyware scam digital security computer internet safety 3

Infographic phishing spyware scam digital security computer internet safety 4

Infographic phishing spyware scam digital security computer internet safety 5

For a much more detailed explanation of these phishing tactics, and other information about digital security, check out this blog post from Varonis.

Rural Refreshments: Drinking Water from Non-Tropical Plants

Written by

Disclaimer: This article is meant to be a quick overview and not a detailed guide on identifying and consuming edible plants. Seek guidance from a trained botanist before attempting to eat any plants. Any attempt to consume plants shall solely be at the reader’s risk.

For those familiar with tropical survival techniques, you already know that water-rich jungle climates are home to many species of vines and plants that yield safe drinking water. But what happens if you find yourself in North America, staring down the barrel of dehydration? With only your surroundings as a resource, can you stay hydrated from plant water sources?

The Myth

Photo: flickr.com/18702768@N04

Photo: David Sawyer | flickr.com/18702768@N04

You’ve seen the cartoons. Just chop the top off a cactus and it will be full of drinkable water. The only problem is, we’re not in a comic book and that cactus is full of bitter, gelatinous pulp. There’s a myth in the survival community (likely started by disillusioned cactus choppers), that you can only extract drinking water from plants in tropics. But that’s not true.

The Reality

Tap a Tree: In late winter and early spring, numerous trees produce drinkable water. Tree tapping is a simple operation, if you get the timing and the species identification right. With a knife, drill, or similar tool, bore a hole into the tree trunk. It should go through the bark and a few inches into the wood. Insert a tube or some other item to channel the sap flow into a waiting container, and wait for the sap to start dripping. It typically flows best on days that are above freezing that follow a sub-freezing night. Try different tree sizes and locations of your chosen tree species.

A young strong tree may produce more sap than an older tree. It’s also best to tap the sunny side of the tree, above a large root or below a large limb. In mid to late winter, sycamore trees (Platanus spp.) will have a very irregular sap run. These trees are found in the east, as well as California and Arizona. In late winter, you can also tap maple trees (Acer spp.), which are found throughout the country. Maples can produce heavily; up to a gallon per day per tap during the peak of the sap run.

Photo: Barney Moss | flickr.com/barneymoss

Photo: Barney Moss | flickr.com/barneymoss

Walnut (Juglans spp.) and hickory (Carya spp.) will produce around the same time as maple. Birch (Betula spp.) is typically the last tree to have a sap run. Walnut, hickory, and birch species are found throughout the continent. But a word of caution, don’t drink any sap from unfamiliar trees. There are more than a few toxic trees in North America. Use a field guide!

Slice a Vine: After the sap run ends in usable trees, you have another chance to collect sap for drinking water. Grape vines (the genus Vitis) can be used on warm spring days. Chop the vine on an angle, place the pointed end into a container and collect the water. Due to the higher tannic acid level and low sugar content, grape sap will taste a little bitter and astringent, but it is perfectly drinkable. Vines less than a ½ inch in diameter will drip for a few hours before they stop, while larger vines will gush water like a faucet. Like tree tapping, this is all about timing. There’ll be days when the water will flow, and days when it won’t. You’ll only know for sure when you try. Again, make certain that the vine really is a grape, as there are some toxic vines with sap that wouldn’t be safe to drink.

The Alternatives

Boil Down Syrup: If you’re lucky enough to have trees producing sugary sap you can boil off the water to make your own syrup. All of the trees mentioned in this article can produce sweet syrup (except the grape vine). Maple has the taste you already know and love. Hickory is similar, with a hint of pecan. Walnut is sweet, with walnut essence. Birch and sycamore have their own special flavors. One quart of sap will boil down to a spoonful of delicious syrup. This is well worth the trouble, especially if you have a fire going anyway for warmth.

Berries as a Beverage: One frequently overlooked source of hydration is the juice from edible berries. Blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, mulberries, and other edible berries are found throughout North America. These edibles are at their most plentiful in the summertime and ripe ones have a high water content. You could, of course, eat them for solid food and moisture. But when you lack water, it’s not wise to eat anything. Digesting food and passing waste are both processes that require water. Your best option is to positively identify the edible berries, wrap them in a piece of clean cloth, crush them and wring out the juice. This juice will provide much needed hydration, with accompanying sugar, vitamins, and minerals.

Claim the Cactus: Remember the cactus pulp we discussed earlier? It’s not completely worthless. If you’re able to improvise some distillation equipment, the cactus pulp can be added to your other raw water sources. Whether you’ve built a still from a vessel and some condensation coil, or you’ve dug a solar still pit in the ground, cactus pulp will increase your water output. Use a local plant ID guide to ensure that you’re not using any toxic greenery.

More From Issue 25

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Editor's Note: This article has been modified from its original version for the web.