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Lock Picking 101

By
Nicholas Italiano
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image of a lock pick set picking a lock

Lock picking is a skill that elicits a lot of different feelings in people when it’s brought up. Some think of crafty criminals breaking into homes, while others think of spies employing discreet tools to ply their trade. While both these situations can be true, the reality of lock picking is that it’s a skill that prepared-minded people value for both emergency and everyday situations. It’s a common misconception that lock-pick sets and bypass tools are illegal. However, most states and municipalities have no restrictions on carrying lock picks beyond the intent to use them in a crime. In fact, most basic lock-picking sets are inexpensive and accessible to everyone.

Before we get into how to pick a lock, let’s look at some of the practical reasons why we would need to pick a lock.

decoder bypass tool in a combination lock

In an emergency, locked gates may inhibit our ability to bypass blocked or damaged roads. This decoder bypass tool made short work of the gate’s combination lock.

Practical Everyday Lock Picking

One of the most straightforward reasons to learn lock picking is being stuck in one of the most common and frustrating situations people face: getting locked out of the house. This is exactly why I got started. After locking myself out and having to climb all over my house to try and find an open window, I was eventually able to kick in a small basement window and squeeze myself through it. I could’ve spent a few hundred dollars and had a locksmith come out, but for the price of a few scrapes and bruises, I learned some valuable lessons. First, my home security needed improvement because of those basement windows. Second, if I had lock-picking skills and a lock-pick set, I could’ve easily avoided any discomfort in this circumstance.

Since then, I’ve been in a few situations that being able to pick locks proved valuable. I’ve found myself returning later than expected during a day hike to find the parking lot gate locked. Being able to quickly bypass the pad lock and relock the gate allowed me to egress from the parking lot and saved the park ranger a trip. This is a more common occurrence than people think, as I have spoken with several avid outdoors people who have been in a similar situation.

Beyond that there have been quite a few pad locks that have had lost keys and dial locks that we have long since lost the combinations to that needed to be opened. With all these examples, it’s clear to see knowing how to pick a lock can aid us on a day-to-day basis, but what benefits does this serve in an emergency?

propane tanks locked in cage

When SHTF, valuable resources like the propane tanks may be locked behind gates and cages. Having the ability to pick or bypass the lock can quickly and quietly give you access to what you need to survive.

Lock Picking in an Emergency

In emergencies, especially in urban environments, the ability to pick a lock can help us access supplies, obtain shelter, or egress an otherwise closed-off area. A news story that comes to mind occurred in upstate New York. There was a major winter storm that left numerous people stranded in their vehicles. The quick thinking of one man saved several lives when he opted to break into a local school and gather people from assorted vehicles to take shelter indoors.

While this action was technically breaking and entering, no charges were filed because of the nature of the emergency. In this case, a window was broken, resulting in repair expenses. If anyone in the group was proficient at lock picking and had a lock-pick set with them, the people would have been able to access lifesaving shelter without the need to destroy any property.

man picking a lock

Locked out? Lock picking provides a quick and inexpensive way to get back in.

How to Pick a Lock

When we look at the question “how to pick a lock,” there isn’t really a single, straightforward answer. This is mainly due to the large number of different lock-pick sets and tools available and all the different types of locks that exist. You can take any lock, from the simplistic Master Lock all the way to cylinder key locks and even electronic locking systems, and there will be numerous tools out there to bypass each of them.

“Lock Sport” is a term that you may come across while researching lock picking. This refers to lock picking as a hobby and, in some cases, a competitive sport. As with many skills and tools that move into the realm of hobbyists, there will be many opinions out there as to what tools are great and what tools are not so great. For the novice or those who are just interested in learning how to pick locks for emergency preparedness, it’s best to avoid the hype of the latest and greatest and stick with some of the tried-and-true classics.

Ultimately, learning how to pick or bypass locks comes down to having the proper tools and a lot of practice. Let’s look at some of the basic tools used to bypass common locks and how they function.

diagram of a lock

Anatomy of a Lock and How Lock Picks Work

The inside of most standard locks looks remarkably similar. Inside of a rotating cylinder, there are several pins attached to springs that must be pushed up to certain levels to release the lock. The grooves in our keys are designed to precisely do this.

When we’re picking a lock, instead of using a key we’re using small tools to manually push the pins into place. There are several distinct types of picks out there; some are designed to push single pins, while others are designed to move multiple pins at once.

rake lock pick set

Beginner Lock-Pick Sets and Tools

Beginner lock-pick sets typically include three different types of picks and at least one torsion wrench. The torsion wrench is a simple tool that allows the lock to be turned into the open position once the lock picks have done their job. For most people, mastering a beginner set will give them the skills and tools they need to open most common locks that use keys including padlocks and door locks.

For beginners, the rake-style pick is one of the most commonly used tools. It features a series of small bumps that slide across the lock’s pins to push them into position. Once the pins are aligned, a torsion wrench can be used to rotate the lock and open it.

single pick as apart of a lock pick set

Another tool that beginners should learn to use is the single hook pick. Although this pick moves only one pin at a time and is much slower than rake picking, it helps novices develop a better understanding of a lock’s structure and mechanics. Just like the rake pick, a torsion wrench will be used to turn the lock to an open position.

The last type of lock pick that’s usually found in beginner pick sets is the comb pick. The name itself is a bit of a misnomer, as it’s not a pick at all but a bypass tool. The comb pick functions by mimicking a key, pushing all the pins up simultaneously. While it works quickly, comb picks are generally effective only on low-quality padlocks and are unlikely to open high-quality locks, such as those used on house doors.

Common Bypass Tools

We discussed the comb pick being a bypass tool, but what exactly is a bypass tool and how does it differ from a lock pick? To put it simply, a lock pick allows the user to manually engage individual pins while a bypass tool is designed to completely go around the security measures built into locks. Bypass tools aren’t as versatile as lock picks; each one is designed for certain types of locks. While they lack the versatility of traditional lock picks, with a little practice they can typically defeat their intended lock in seconds.

Comb bypass tools

Combs

These are designed to defeat cylinder locks commonly found in Master brand and other similar-styled locks. There are different comb lengths that work for unique styles of locks. Combs work by inserting the comb into the lock face, which will push all the pins up to disengage the lock.

quick stick bypass tool

 

Quick Sticks

This simple bypass tool is designed to bypass low-quality padlocks by completely bypassing the pins and directly disengaging the lock. Simply insert into the lock face and push it up to disengage the lock clasp.

jiggler bypass tools

Jiggler

This bypass tool is designed to defeat wafer locks. Wafer locks are named after the flat wafers used internally instead of pins. These types of locks can be found on some mailboxes, filing cabinets, desk drawers, older car locks, and RVs. Wafer locks present a unique challenge, as the internal parts can be easily damaged if the wrong key is used or in aggressive picking, making it unable to disengage without physically removing the lock. To use a jiggler bypass tool, simply insert it into the lock face and gently move it around until the lock can be disengaged. It’s important to note that car locks require specific types of jigglers that are becoming increasingly ineffective due to electronic lock technology.

decoder bypass tool

Decoder Shims

These bypass tools are designed to defeat locks without keys such as luggage locks and combination padlocks. Like quick sticks, the decoder shim is pushed up through the side of the number dial to quickly disengage the locking clasp.
Practice Locks

While not an actual lock-picking tool, practice locks are essential to helping the novice develop their skill set. Practice locks offer a cut-away window to allow the user to see what’s going on inside the lock while they are practicing picking. These provide a deep sense of how a lock works and how each of the tools we are using impacts the internal components of the lock.

lock pick set with EDC gear

A set of lock picks and the skill to use them are a great addition to a functional EDC setup (items pictured Tuff Possum Entry, ZT0308CF, ASP Defender Sport, Fenix PD 25R).

Practice, Practice, Practice!

By reading the descriptions of how each of these tools works, it sounds easy to do. I wouldn’t classify any basic lock-picking activity as difficult, but it does require finesse and dexterity that’s only developed through practice. Starting with practice locks and moving to standard locks is a fantastic way to get a feel for both your tools and a feel for distinct types of locks and brands of locks.
I emphasized finesse for a good reason — lock picks may be tools, but they are delicate precision instruments. Applying too much force even to high-end hardened steel and titanium lock picks will result in bending and snapping. In the beginning of your lock-picking journey, slow and steady wins the race.

lock pick set in a hat

The Tuff Possum Bogota Set fits discreetly in the Wazoo Cache Cap.

Nick’s Personal Lock-Pick Sets and Bypass Tools

The sheer number of different lock-pick sets and bypass tools on the market can be overwhelming for those new to the art of lock picking. Here are some of the tools that I use and rely on to get the job done.

tuff possum lock pick set

This kit has all the picks and bypass tools to tackle the most common locks.

Main Kit: Tuff Possum Entry Kit

Tuff Possum’s Entry Kit is a compact kit that includes all the basics you need to get most lock-picking jobs done. The Entry Kit has three different double-sided torsion wrenches, allowing you to apply six different levels of tension. The kit also includes five different picks, three rakes, a hook, and a half diamond. All five picks are held together by a rivet so nothing gets lost, and you can easily switch tools if needed. There’s also a bypass tool set held together by a rivet that includes three combs, two jigglers, and a quick stick. There are also two stand-alone EZ Decoders. This setup gives you everything a beginner user needs to get started and effectively pick locks. For everyday carry, I keep it all in the optional Compact Lock Pick Case, which tucks discreetly into any pants pocket and some coin pockets.

The Entry Kit also includes a few more advanced tools, which includes a set of warded lock picks used specifically for warded locks and an EZ Card that can easily bypass many locked latch doors such as gates and home interior doors.

This has been my go-to set for a while due to the compact size, versatility, and quality steel construction of the tools. The compact size of these tools can make them challenging for beginners to practice with, but Tuff Possum offers an affordable beginner kit featuring full-sized tools. The pick profiles and tension wrenches are identical to those in the entry set, ensuring a smooth transition as users progress.

lock pick set with SERE gear

Lock picks are an ideal addition to your urban SERE kit (Tuff Possum Bogota Set, Superesse EDC SERE Kit, Silcock Key for accessing water in cities).

Discreet Carry Option: Bogota Set with Covert Key Slip

Although the Entry kit is very compact, I also like to account for the times where I may not have those items in my pocket, or in the event I become separated from my primary lock-picking set.

This simple set has a Bogota Quad Rake and a Single Hook Pick (again from Tuff Possum) with the backsides of each acting as a tension wrench. While not as versatile as a full set, the ability to clip it to my pants button with the Covert Key Slip or stash it in my Wazoo Cache Cap as part of my compact SERE kit ensures I always have backup lock picks on hand.

lock pick set in a wallet

The Grim Workshop “Sparrow Bushcraft” Signature Survival Card is an ideal compact addition to your wallet of Wilderness Kit.

Wilderness Option: “Sparrow Bushcraft” Signature Survival Card

When out in the wilderness, there may not be a need for a full-sized lock-picking kit, but as we discussed earlier there are moments when we may need to defeat a lock. Having some tools available rounds out my wilderness survival kit.

Grim Workshop is renowned for creating ultra-compact survival tools, including dog tags, Altoid tin kits, and their widely popular survival cards. Among their offerings in the realm of lock picking and escape and evasion, one card stands out for blending high-quality lock picks with essential wilderness tools: the Sparrow Bushcraft Signature Survival Card.

Created by Bill Roque, also known as Sparrow Bushcraft, this card reflects his dual passions for lock picking and outdoor adventure. It features several effective pick styles, a four-pin comb bypass tool, multi-step tension wrenches, and two serrated saws that also function as tweezers. Measuring roughly the size of a credit card, it fits seamlessly into a wallet, sitting discreetly alongside a Wazoo Fire Card to cover key outdoor survival needs.

These tools are crafted from high-quality stainless steel, built for durability, and designed for repeated use. They can easily be reattached to their original spots on the card thanks to a tacky backing material.

Final Thoughts

This covers the fundamentals of lock picking and using bypass tools. With these tools and a bit of practice, you’ll soon be able to tackle most common locks, taking a big step toward becoming more self-reliant. Lock picking has many practical day-to-day applications and will serve you well in many scenarios.

But the basics are only the beginning. The art of lock picking offers endless opportunities to explore, from specialty tools and advanced techniques for complex locks to electronic bypass devices for more modern systems. There’s always more to learn and master.

Sources

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

    OFFGRID Adventures: Wilderness Escapes Off the Beaten Path

    By
    Offgrid Staff
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    image of a man on a rock scrambling adventure.

    For those seeking something beyond a typical getaway, Offgrid Adventures are handpicked wilderness escapes offer more than just scenic views — they challenge your grit, test your limits, and immerse you in landscapes where survival and adventure go hand in hand. Prepping for a backcountry trek or simply looking for a place to unplug over the weekend is not always as easy as it seems. However, these destinations offer the right blend of raw beauty and adventure that will have you feeling recharged and reconnected with nature.

    Offgrid Adventure: Mount Umunhum – San Jose, CA

    Offgrid Adventures Mount Umunhum

    Adventure Appeal

    Where rugged wilderness meets Cold War history. Climb to one of the highest peaks in the Bay Area, where the journey is just as thrilling as the view. Located in the Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve, Mount Umunhum — a Native American name that describes the sound a hummingbird makes — offers adventurers a unique mix of challenging terrain, breathtaking vistas, and fascinating Cold War history.

    At 3,486 feet, the summit provides sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, the Santa Cruz Mountains, and the sprawling San Francisco Bay Area. It’s a day hike, but don’t let the proximity to civilization fool you — this trail will test your endurance, climbing 3.7 miles with over 1,100 feet of elevation gain. Along the way, you’ll trek through dense forests, cross rocky terrain, and be rewarded with a view that feels miles away from the hustle of city life.

    a relic of the cold war

    This five-story Cold War relic can be seen from almost everywhere in the Bay Area, but few people make the ascent to get up close to it.

    Survival Readiness

    While Mount Umunhum is a relatively accessible day trip, it comes with its own set of challenges. The steep climb, exposure to the elements (especially the sun on cloudless days), and the lack of water sources along the trail mean hikers need to come prepared. Pack plenty of water, sun protection, and a map — cell service can be spotty, and some rocky, narrow sections require careful footing. The isolation, though brief, offers a chance to test your readiness without straying too far from safety.

    a trail on the Mount Umunham offgrid adventure

    A well-established network of trails provide a great opportunity to connect with nature.

    Getting There

    Mount Umunhum is located about 30 minutes south of San Jose, California, making it an ideal adventure for Bay Area residents. Head into the Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve via Hicks Road, where you’ll find a parking area with access to the trailhead. The trail is open year-round, but it’s best tackled in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat, especially in summer.

    topo map of mount Umunhum

    Topo map of Mt. Umunhum (Source: CalTopo)

    Local Perks

    After your climb, explore the area’s rich history. Mount Umunhum was once the site of a Cold War radar station, and remnants of that era still stand at the summit, including the iconic radar tower. For those interested in expanding their adventure, nearby Almaden Quicksilver County Park offers additional hiking opportunities, or head to downtown San Jose for a taste of local cuisine and craft breweries.
    Mount Umunhum offers a satisfying mix of isolation and accessibility.

    The trail is rugged enough to feel adventurous, but with easy road access, ample parking, and historical plaques along the way, it doesn’t push the limits of true off-grid living. You won’t find any services at the summit itself, but cell reception is decent, and the trail is well-marked. If you’re looking for a quick escape without venturing into the unknown, this is the perfect spot for a moderate-level off-grid experience.

    Offgrid Adventure: Rockhouse Hill Sanctuary – Oxford, CT

    Offgrid Adventures Rockhouse Hill

    Adventure Appeal

    Rockhouse Hill offers a range of hiking experiences, starting at a gravel parking lot with an information kiosk providing maps and details about the area’s history and wildlife. A flat, gravel path leads into the forest, but the terrain quickly shifts to rocky trails shaped by glacial deposits, with plenty of ascents and descents that keep things engaging. For an easy stroll, a path to the riverbank winds through a pine-needle-covered forest, though the return uphill can be steep.

    The trails pass a lively reservoir filled with frogs and waterfowl and remnants of earlier settlements, like ornamental plants and invasive wineberry. Further along, the terrain becomes more rugged, culminating in a cliffside view of the Housatonic River Valley. Hikers can choose easier routes with moderate climbs and stream crossings or tackle the “On the Rocks” trail, a steep, boulder-strewn challenge. Excellent trail markers and loops make navigation simple, ensuring an adventurous and rewarding hike.

    water feature in the rockhouse hill offgrid adventure

    Numerous water sources attract a wide variety of wildlife to the area.

    Survival Readiness

    The Sanctuary is a self-guided experience with no amenities — no restrooms, water stations, or staff — so come prepared with water and first aid essentials. While it feels remote, the preserve is close to a main road, with restaurants and grocery stores about 15 minutes away, and it generally has good cell service unless you venture onto connecting trails. Hiking boots or trail runners are essential for navigating slippery rocks, which stay wet longer under the tree cover, and waterproof footwear can help during rainy periods when streams may overflow. Though near homes and a high school, emergency response may be delayed, so plan accordingly. The cliffside area gets full sun and wind, making weather-appropriate clothing a must. Oxford’s wooded setting is home to wildlife, including black bears, coyotes, rattlesnakes, spiders, and ticks — bear spray, tick repellent, and staying on marked trails are your best defenses.

    flat trail in rockhouse hill

    Well-groomed trails are perfect for bikers, hikers, and cross country skiers after the snow starts to fly.

    Getting There

    Rockhouse Hill Sanctuary is about a 20-minute drive off Exit 16 on Interstate 64. It is about 40 minutes north from Danbury and an hour south from Hartford. The parking area of the sanctuary is off Route 188, just past the entrance for Oxford High School. The parking lot has room for about 8 to 10 cars and fills up fast on weekends and holidays, but during the week it is not uncommon to be the only person in there. Rockhouse Hill is open to the public all year long.

    an old stone wall from a historic settlement

    Adventure and History. Traces of the regions rich history can be found throughout Rockhouse Hill Sanctuary.

    Local Perks

    Hiking opportunities are abundant in the area with two major forests, three state parks, and several other preserves in the immediate area. If you are looking for a bite to eat after your hike Oxford has several restaurants on Route 67 including the historic Oxford House Tavern, as well as several more modern eateries in Quarry Walk Center. Rockhouse Hill Sanctuary is a hidden gem in Western Connecticut’s Naugatuck River Valley, offering a mix of gravel paths and rocky trails that showcase New England’s rugged charm.

    Maintained by the town of Oxford with help from the Oxford High School Youth Conservation Corps and local Boy Scouts, the sanctuary features 15 miles of trails with options for all skill levels. Shorter, less challenging trails near the entrance still provide enough hills to get your blood pumping, while the deeper trails offer rock scrambles, varied terrain, and stunning views. Ambitious hikers can extend their adventure by connecting to adjacent state forest trails, exploring miles of woodland, rivers, and waterfalls

    topo map of rockhouse hill

    Topo map of Rockhouse Hill Sanctuary (Source: CalTopo)

     

    Offgrid Adventures Rating Scale

    offgrid adventures scale

     

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    Editors Letter: SERE Skills for a Shifting World

    By
    Nicholas Italiano
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    SERE man running through a tunnel

    The world keeps showing us how swiftly comfort can give way to crisis. Reports of violent criminals slipping through lax borders and settling into everyday neighborhoods are no longer distant headlines. Attacks on young women on once-secure streets and the spread of gangs — like the Venezuelan Tren de Aragua — staking out apartment complexes remind us that danger can evolve faster than we’d prefer. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Yet the truth is that there are ways to prepare, mentally and physically, for scenarios that once seemed exclusive to war zones or distant trouble spots. The principles of SERE — Survive, Evade, Resist, Escape — no longer belong solely to those in specialized fields. They can enrich the lives of anyone determined not to give predators the upper hand.

    Within these pages, you’ll find voices that have forged their methods under exacting conditions. Air Force SERE instructors Michael Caughran and Peter Magnin bring insights to strengthen your judgment long before a crisis tests it. Their hard-earned perspectives blend seamlessly with other approaches sprinkled throughout this issue. You’ll encounter strategies that address challenges lurking behind school doors, guidance on looking after your own body if trained help isn’t coming, and ways to keep your personal security toolkit versatile, ranging from entry methods that challenge old assumptions of “locked” spaces, to awareness exercises that sharpen focus and reduce complacency.

    To add some levity to these serious topics, we’re introducing Offgrid Adventures, a new column aimed at inspiring you to seek out landscapes and experiences that remind you the world holds more than gloomy headlines suggest. We’ve also refreshed our Gear Up section, not to sell you fancy trinkets, but to offer a tangible bridge from theory to practice. These additions mirror our core belief that preparation is a combination of both mindset and action. By gaining familiarity with the right skills, exploring environments that challenge your everyday assumptions, and understanding the tools that best fit your circumstances, you build something durable within yourself.

    This issue encourages a different kind of vigilance — one grounded in knowledge and flexibility rather than fear. The lessons here are meant to strengthen your footing, wherever you might stand. As you turn the pages, consider how these approaches, insights, and explorations might shape your habits, refine your outlook, or give you the confidence to navigate this shifting world with steady resolve.

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    Frigid Fitness Formula: Fitness Tips for Cold Weather

    By
    Patrick McCarthy
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    0

    This article about cold weather fitness originally appeared in Issue 6 of our magazine.

    Warning! The exercises and content expressed in this column are for illustrative purposes only. Consult a licensed fitness trainer or medical professional before trying any physical activity or nutritional plan.

    Illustrations by Chris Bywater

    Who enjoys spending time frolicking in frigid temperatures? Exactly. As a result, staying warm and cozy indoors often comes at the expense of physical activity. Humans were never meant to hibernate, contrary to what most people do after Thanksgiving dinner or what teenagers think when they’re forced out of bed on a Saturday morning. We don’t always have the luxury of a heated building with a roof over our heads, so our ability to cope with the environment is critically important to our ability to not only survive, but thrive in a cold weather scenario.

    Winter can present many challenging situations and force you into an uncomfortable, possibly even dangerous environment for an indeterminate amount of time. Icy road conditions often lead to increased traffic, car accidents, and vehicle breakdowns. Getting stranded can mean being stuck on the side of the road waiting for a tow truck or a lengthy trek through knee-high snow.

    Maintaining or improving your cold weather fitness level is essential in freezing conditions, as your chances of escaping a potential hazard drops as the mercury falls. Don’t let your fitness level be the weak link in your chain of preparedness.

    Cold Weather Fitness: Frosty Fashion

     

    man in heavy snow

    When it comes to cold-weather apparel, the primary goal is to keep your core (torso) warm. Core warmth must always be maintained. When core temperature drops, blood vessels constrict in the extremities to reduce blood flow and conserve heat. Reduced blood to the hands and feet leads to diminished motor control and other physiological side effects. It’s obvious, then, that your clothing will make or break your survival.

    For the base layer, prioritize tighter-fitting moisture-wicking fabric, as you still might sweat regardless of the temperature. The second layer should be a thermal layer designed to trap heat well. These are made in varying thicknesses and fabrics, so look to match the fabric to the temperature. The colder it is, the thicker the fabric should be to trap more heat. Lastly, the outermost layer should be waterproof and windproof. Protection from the elements is the top priority. This layer will also act to prevent heat from escaping through the fabric. Make sure to choose colors that fit the activity, as brighter colors will allow you to be found in snow more easily.

    a sweaty shirt

    The face and extremities are at the highest risk for developing cold injuries due to skin exposure and blood flow alterations. The less skin exposed, the better. Therefore, gloves are mandatory. They maintain manual function and movement, as well as provide a layer of paw protection — because who knows what you’ll have to do when you’re suddenly caught in an emergency. The head can be a significant source of heat loss in cold weather. It’s best to wear a facemask (similar to a balaclava) that covers everything from your neck to the top of your head. The breathing of cold and dry air is a major issue with physical activity in the cold, so the mask will allow air to be warmed and humidified before inhaling. Heat loss and, potentially, dehydration can occur if your breathing rate gets high enough.

    Once you’ve selected your winter clothes, don’t be alarmed if you feel just a little chilly for the first five to 10 minutes of activity. If you’re feeling warm immediately, the heat generated through exercise will end up causing you to overheat, possibly leading to heat stress — believe it or not.

    military service member in snow gear
    (Photo by Spc. Liliana S. Magers, U.S. Army Alaska Public Affairs.)

    Cold Weather Fitness: Warming Up

    A properly designed warm-up is the critical starting point to any workout or physical endeavor. While you may be able to get by without one, you’re increasing the likelihood of injury and, at the very least, reducing your output during that activity.

    A warm-up should address key things like increasing bodily tissue temperature, improving joint mobility and flexibility, priming your nervous system, and improving posture and alignment. Within this warm-up, it’s best to address the more mobile joints of the body, such as the hips, ankles, and thoracic spine.

    For ankles, the wall ankle mobilization with hip flexor stretch is very beneficial. The “Spiderman” works well to gain mobility in the groin and stretches the back hip as well. The thoracic spine features both extending and rotating requirements, so something like a tall kneeling thoracic spine rotation with tip works very well. You can also put them together into a Spiderman with a rotation, addressing all three areas in one movement.

    Cold Weather Fitness Activity: Wall Ankle Mobilization with Hip Flexor Stretch

    Cold Weather Fitness demo

    Targets: Ankles, hip flexors

    Repetitions: 8 per side

    Start with one knee down and the other foot planted in front of you. Grab the ankle of the back foot and place your other hand on the wall. Slowly rock forward, attempting to get your knee to the wall while keeping your heel down. Complete eight times per side.

    Cold Weather Fitness Activity: The Spiderman

    Cold Weather Fitness Demo

    Targets: Groin, hips, hamstrings

    Repetitions: 6 per side

    Take an exaggerated step forward and place your hands on the floor in line with the instep of your front foot. Complete six times per side.

    Cold Weather Fitness Activity: The Spiderman with Rotation

    cold weather fitness demo

    Take an exaggerated step forward with your left foot and place your hands on the floor in line with the instep of your left foot. Now turn your upper body and point your right fingers toward the ceiling. Complete six times then do the same on your left side.

    Cold Weather Fitness Activity: Tall Kneeling Thoracic Spine Rotation with Tip

    cold weather fitness demo

    Targets: Back

    Repetitions: 3 per side

    Start in a kneeling position with both knees down. While staying tall, rotate from your upper back with your hands behind your head. Your hips should remain forward. Once you turn as far as is comfortable, tip your torso on the same side as the direction you’re turning. Repeat, turning a little further each time. Complete three times on each side.

    Cold Weather Injuries

    a camp fire in the snow

    The lack of proper apparel, gear, and fitness can lead to numerous injuries in frigid weather. Here’s a brief look at some of the common ailments.

    Cold and Wet Injuries

    Chilblain
    Looks: Lesions on the top side of the hands and feet. Redness and swelling. More extreme cases can progress to blisters and ulcers. May take months or years for symptoms to subside
    Feels: Itching and soreness
    Causes: Damage to the blood vessels located near the exterior layers of the skin. Result is local fluid accumulation (edema) and inflammation.

    Pernio
    Looks: Larger lesions on the tops of the hands and feet. Lesions and skin may begin to appear darker in color.
    Feels: Itching and pain
    Causes: Continuation of chilblain. Further ulceration and the start of tissue death.

    Trenchfoot
    Looks: Swelling, skin discoloration, ulcers present
    Feels: Numbness and pain
    Causes: Severe damage to the nerves and local blood vessels

    Cold and Dry Injuries

    Frostnip
    Looks: Reduced skin coloration or white appearance on the affected areas
    Feels: Tenderness, numbness, or burning
    Causes: Initial freezing of the skin. Nerves and capillaries may be damaged. Increases chance of further frostnip and frostbite, due to decreased sensation of cold and decreased blood supply.

     

    Frostbite
    Looks: Redness or possibly black skin on the affected areas
    Feels: Numbness and tenderness. With rewarming, can cause feelings of intense pain, inflammation, and possible gangrene. (Medical rewarming is highly advised rather than in the field).
    Causes: Continued cooling, freezing, and damaging of cells

    Source: Advanced Environmental Exercise Physiology by Stephen Cheung

    Cold Weather Fitness Modifications

    Cold weather requires a few minor exercise modifications that should be addressed to further the effectiveness of a warm-up. Since the topic here is staying active and preparing for cold weather scenarios, it’s safe to assume the ambient temperature will be pretty frosty. In light of that, increasing tissue temperature is weighted a little more heavily.

    Passive, pre-warm-up strategies can be used prior to exercise to further your preparation for cold weather exposure. The most obvious way is to spend five to 10 minutes in a warmer environment wearing warm clothes to raise your body temperature and trap heat in your clothing. You can also consume a warmer beverage, such as tea or coffee. Not only does the heat of the drink help to elevate body temperature, the caffeine can also improve performance.

    a pot over a camp fire

    Look at adding more layers or warmer fabrics during your warm-up and activity. What fabrics and how many layers will depend on how cold it is. The goal in a warm-up should be achieving a light sweat. However, in the cold, sweating isn’t ideal as it’s an awfully efficient cooling mechanism. It’s best to shoot for a general feeling of increased warmth, but do your best not to break out into an all-out sweat.

    Be mindful of hydration as well. Water can still be lost through sweating and even breathing. Exercise increases breathing rate to meet the demand of the activity, and with breathing, water vapor is lost, possibly leading to dehydration over time.

    Whether it’s something planned or not, physical activity in the cold can present several challenges. Your ability to adequately sense cold and respond accordingly can be affected by several factors, including exercise-induced fatigue, depleted energy stores, and sleep deprivation. So, make sure you’re adequately rested and fed, ideally, before venturing outdoors for activity. Follow these tips, and you’ll be ready for whatever Old Man Winter has in store this year.

    running cold weather fitness in the snow

    Why We Shiver

    The involuntary shaking that comes in cold weather is the contraction of skeletal muscle, which helps convert energy to heat while minimizing mechanical movement.

    • This is primarily driven by skin temperature
    • The longer you’re exposed to a cold environment, the more muscle mass will be recruited
    • Fueled primarily by carbohydrates

    Temperature timeline:

    1. Shivering typically begins at a core temperature of 96.8 degrees F (36 degrees C)
    2. Reaches peak shivering at a core temperature of 95 degrees F (35 degrees C)
    3. Stops at a core temperature of 87.8 degrees F (31 degrees C)

    Source: Advanced Environmental Exercise Physiology by Stephen Cheung

    About the Author

    Ryne Gioviano, M.S.Ed., NSCA-CPT is the owner of Achieve Personal Training & Lifestyle Design. He holds a master’s degree in exercise physiology and is a certified personal trainer through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. For more information, visit www.achieve-personaltraining.com. You can find Ryne on Twitter and Instagram at @RGioviano.

    Off Grid Lighting

    By
    Nicholas Italiano
    -
    0
    off grid lighting as part of a survival kit

    When exploring the great outdoors or navigating an urban emergency having reliable off grid lighting options is vital to our survival. In the wilderness we lack the ambient lighting that is found in urban and suburban areas and those unfamiliar with the true darkness of the wild underestimate how dark it gets. During emergencies such as storms, grid failures, and even civil unrest power can be disrupted and leave us with little light to navigate outdoors at night or inside buildings.

    The ASP Spectrum UV and Princeton Tec Helix LI as part of an outdoor gear kit including the Knives by Nuge Bruin, Tuff Possum Gear Med Pouch, Dark Energy Power Bank, and PNWBUSHCRAFT Ground Cloth

    While many of us carry flashlights daily, extended wilderness adventures and urban emergencies require more powerful and robust lighting systems. These can include powerful handheld flashlights to see for longer distances, head lamps when you need to keep your hands free, and lanterns for producing long term light in an area.

    Beyond considering the type of power of the light we need; we must also factor in charging methods and durability. In addition, we should consider the environmental and weather resistance that is relevant for the areas we find ourselves in.

    Let’s dive into the categories and look at some of the adventure lighting options I utilize on a regular basis.

    Off Grid Lighting: Handheld Flashlights

    When it comes to off grid lighting systems, a handheld flashlight is the first thing that comes to mind. This tried-and-true lighting system has been around since 1899, but recent technological advances have resulted in high powered lighting options in compact form factors.

    There is a near infinite amount of variety when it comes to handheld flashlights, with a different brightness, light color, battery, and form factor options available. There are handheld flashlights designed for specific uses and industries as well. With this variety it is common to confuse key features for intended tasks and environments. Wilderness use lights will not vary too much from emergency use lights. The features most important will be brightness, battery life, and resistance to the elements, however some of the flashlights listed below will have added useful features.

    ASP Spectrum UV

    Armament Systems and Procedures, or ASP for short, is known for producing high quality equipment for law enforcement personnel. The ASP Spectrum UV is no exception to this rule but is packed with a ton of features that make it an excellent choice for outdoor adventures and emergency situations. The feature rich The Spectrum UV offers momentary or fixed on/off switches, multiple brightness options, strobe, and 4 different color lighting modes including standard white, red, blue, and UV. While white is most used the other lighting modes should not be underestimated.

    Red light is ideal for preserving your body’s natural night vision. While white light will require our eyes to readjust to the darkness red light does not affect our eyes with the same intensity allowing us to quickly readjust to the level of darkness in the area.

    Blue light can cut through dense fog and be used to illuminate blood or other bodily fluids which can be helpful when tracking.

    UV Mode finding animal urine traces in the snow

    UV light can help us see things that are hard to see with the naked eye. In urban environments this is useful for determining the validity of currency and ID’s. In the wilderness many organisms are UV reactive which will allow us to see a multitude of plants, fugus, and even things like scorpions. UV light will also quickly chare any glow in the dark materials that are commonly used on stickers, gear markers, and patches.

    The Spectrum is made from high grade aluminum and is weather resistant. It has a maximum output of 700 lumens and a beam distance of 210 meters. The max run time is 5 hours and 30 minutes, and it will run on the included rechargeable lithium-ion battery or 2 CR123 batteries. The Spectrum is equipped with a USB-C port making it easy to charge and compatible with most modern charging wires.

    The Spectrum UV has an included pocket clip for easy attachment and an optional holster is offered for belt or plate carrier mounting allowing the light to be used hands free.

    Pros

    • 4 different color light modes
    • Multiple battery options
    • Optional mount for hands free use
    • USB-C charging
    • Water and weather Resistant
    • Includes removeable pocket clip

    Cons

    • Multiple light modes can be more complicated to operate
    • On the higher end of the price range

    Fenix PD45R

    The PD45R is one of Fenix’s newest offerings with a maximum output of a whopping 2800 lumens and a max run time of 65 Hours on the lowest mode. This model offers a digital screen telling you the exact percentage left on your battery and the proprietary lithium-ion battery is charged via a USB-C port on the body of the flashlight.

    Another notable and useful feature is the ability adjust the beam from spotlight to floodlight with an easy-to-use wheel dial that sits around the power button. This allows the user to adjust the beam for distance viewing with a maximum distance of 480 meters or produce a large amount of light in a confined area.

    The LD45R produces white light only and has 5 different intensity settings as well as a strobe and SOS mode. It is important to note that the maximum setting of 2800 lumens will produce a lot of heat and should only be used in short bursts when needed. All other lighting modes can be used over the long term without worry.

    The high-grade aluminum body is durable and sealed allowing it to withstand water submersion of up to 2 meters. The light itself does not have a clip making it better for storing in a bag or pack but can be placed in a deep pocket if needed.

    Pros

    • High waterproof rating and submersible for short periods
    • Very bright light production in a compact package
    • LED screen displays exact battery percentage
    • Has both spotlight and floodlight modes
    • Long beam distance
    • USB-C recharging

    Cons

    • No pocket clip
    • Only white light
    • Excessive heat production on maximum

    Nite Ize Inova T8R

    The Nite Ize T8R is a rugged outdoor flashlight that features both red and white light modes that is easily toggled by using a rotating cap near the lens that can be easily switched between the two while the light is in use.

    The body of the T8R is made from high grade aluminum and is rated for both weather resistance and drop resistance. The light itself is powered by an included lithium-ion battery and can also be run on two CR123 batteries. The battery can be charged via a covered micro-USB port under the tail cap. The T8R body includes a pocket clip for easy attachment to your pocket or outer area of your bag.

    The T8R produces a maximum of 762 lumens in high mode and has a 30-hour run time in low mode. Both the red and white options offer two brightness levels with strobe and SOS are available in white mode. The beam distance in high white mode is 267 meters and red comes in lower at 189 meters.

    While the T8R lacks many of the advanced features found on the previous two lights, it makes up for it in simplicity and ease of use while providing the most used features.

    Pros

    • White and red light modes
    • Simple operation
    • multiple battery options
    • water and weather resistant

    Cons

    • Dated Micro-USB recharging
    • Limited brightness options

    Off Grid Lighting: Head Lamps

    Electric Head Lamps originated in the early 1900’s and were popular among miners who needed to keep their hands free when working. While these early headlamps were only capable of producing 2 to 5 lumens of light, they were designed to last an entire 12-hour work shift.

    As technology advanced headlamps became popular with outdoor enthusiasts, especially cavers and climbers, as they needed both hands to climb. The first sport headlamps were powered by AA or AAA batteries, but many modern offerings have lithium-ion rechargeable batteries offering more light production and battery life.

    Head lamps typically won’t offer the level of brightness or beam distance found in handheld flashlights, but they do allow us to operate hands free, allowing us to use both our hands when working.

    A good off grid lighting head lamp will offer good battery life and multiple light level modes allowing it to fit into multiple usage scenarios. Like the handheld flashlight we should also be looking for headlamps that are durable and weather resistant.

    Princeton Tec Apex LI

    Princeton Tec is known for making reliable tactical, adventure, and industrial lighting. The Helix LI is at the top of their adventure-oriented head lamp line up. This impressive head lamp features a total of 5 white LED’s, 4 flood lights and a single large spotlight which emits a maximum of 550 lumens with a 90-meter beam distance.

    The Apex LI has multiple lighting modes including a high and low spot, a high and low flood and a flash mode. Light modes are easily toggled using the large buttons on the headlamp body. The run time on high is an impressive 6.6 hours and over 13 hours on low thanks to the rechargeable battery back that sits separate from the main head lamp unit.

    The battery pack will charge via any USB power block using the included charging cable in the package and takes around three hours to fully charge. When in use the battery pack can be clipped to the rear of the head and crown strap. The battery itself does not have a power meter, but a colored LED on the Apex body indicates current battery power.

    This is a large package compared to many smaller headlamps. It is comfortable to wear but may require some adjustment if you are accustomed to a smaller head lamp setup.

    The whole package is built tough for serious outdoor use, having an IPX7 waterproof rating meaning it can handle all manners of weather and can even remain submerged in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes without being damaged. The Battery and Apex head lamp unit are protected making it ideal for cold weather use without having to worry about rapid battery drain.

    Pros

    • Has both spotlight and flood light modes
    • Very long battery life
    • Battery pack is external and can replaced or carry spare battery packs
    • Whole unit is water and weather resistant and can handle temporary submersion

    Cons

    • Large overall size may take some getting used to
    • On the higher end of price range

    Observer Tools 450 Head Lamp

    Observer Tools makes a variety of lights geared toward industrial, outdoor, and everyday use. Currently the 450 is the only head lamp in their lineup and it has some impressive features. The unit features a single spotlight that can vary between 60 and 450 lumens. Light intensity is managed by a turning dial on the body that allows you to easily brighten and dim the light to your specific needs.

    The 450 is powered by an internal lithium-ion battery offering 3.5 hours on high and up to 20 hours on low. The battery can be charged using a Micro-USB or USB-C cord depending on the production date.

    A notable feature on the 450 is a motion sensor on off option that allows the user to turn the device on and off with a wave of your hand in front of the head lamp. If motion sensors aren’t your thing, the simple buttons on the head lamp can be used to manually turn the 450 on and off.

    The 450 is rated IP67 for water and dust resistance allowing it to operate in all weather conditions and the internal battery is protected to reduced temperature related battery drain and damage.

    Pros

    • Budget Friendly
    • Motion sensor for on/off
    • Fine control of brightness
    • Internal battery makes it compact
    • Water and Weather Resistant

    Cons

    • Internal Battery is not replaceable
    • Some units use dated Micro-USB recharging
    • No flood light mode

    Off Grid Lighting: Lanterns

    Lanterns have been around for a long time; it is estimated that lanterns first originated in China in 230 BCE as part of festival celebrations and they continued to advance throughout human history to become a staple part of every outdoorsman’s gear. While early lanterns relied on combustible fuel, the first commercial lantern became available in the 1870’s. Even with the advent of electric lanterns, many outdoors people in the 20th century relied on combustible fuel lanterns and the classic green Coleman Lantern is an iconic item that brings back a feeling of nostalgia for many.

    With improvements in both LED and battery technology, electric lanterns have come to the forefront of modern off grid lighting. Lanterns can create sustained light over extended periods of time. A good lantern will offer multiple brightness levels, and some have multiple lighting modes. Battery life is a top concern as is environmental resistance and durability.

    Princeton Tec Helix LI

    The Helix LI is Princeton Tec’s premier adventure lantern. This rechargeable lantern produces up to 300 lumens of white light or red light. Running up to 110 hours on white and 200 hours on red before needing a recharge.

    The “rubbery” globe can snap down, and the legs fold up making a very compact package for transport. Weighing just under 5.5 ounces, the Helix is ideal for when you want to keep weight down in your pack. When collapsed the Helix is small enough to fit in a coat pocket or cargo pant pocket.

    The top has a metal loop that can be used to hang the Helix in your tent or on a tree branch. The Helix is rated IPX6 meaning it can handle any level of falling rain but should not be submerged.

    The battery is charged via micro-USB on the bottom of the base. You will also find a quick reference guide on how to use the Helix’s swipe bar to cycle through light modes.

    Pros

    • Ultra compact
    • Red and white light modes
    • Long Run Time
    • Weather resistant

    Cons

    • Swipe function takes some getting used to
    • Dated Micro-USB Charging

    LEDLENSER ML6

    LEDLENSER is known for making a variety of lighting solutions from handheld to lanterns. The ML6 is a dual light lantern that is about the same thickness as a full-sized flashlight. With a maximum output of 750 lumens of white light the ML6 can bring a large amount of light to an area and run for up to 4 hours at maximum or 240 hours on low red-light mode.

    In addition to having dimmable red and white modes the ML6 also has pulse, strobe, and SOS mode. The top button and inner bottom ring both glow in the dark making it easier to find if off. The base has a collapsible hook allowing it to be hung.

    The battery is charged via a covered micro-USB port and there is also a USB-A port that will allow you to charge other devices from the ML6’s internal battery. Rated at IP54, the ML6 can handle splashes but should not be submerged or left in driving rain for too long.

    Pros

    • Very bright at maximum
    • White and Red light modes
    • Long run time in low red mode
    • Can be used to charge other devices

    Cons

    • Water resistance is on the low end of acceptable
    • Not lightweight or particularly compact
    • Dated Micro-USB charging

    A Final Note on Back Up Power  

    Off grid lighting and much more of our wilderness and emergency gear has become increasingly reliant on electric power. While we don’t have to worry about being on the move with combustible liquids or gas canisters, we should still have ways of charging our adventures lights and other electronic outdoor gear. Keeping power banks, solar chargers, or back up batteries with us is essential to keeping the lights on!

    Weather and temperature resistant power banks, like the offerings from Dark Energy are ideal for emergency back up power for your off grid lighting.

    Sources

    Read More

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    Rucking: Survival Fitness Tips & Mistakes to Avoid

    By
    Patrick McCarthy
    -
    0

    Editor’s Note: The following article is a web-exclusive supplement to author Kevin Estela’s print feature, “Ruck It: Functional Fitness for the Serious Survivalist”. To read more of Kevin’s thoughts on the topic of survival fitness, pick up a copy of RECOIL OFFGRID Issue 20, on sale starting June 2nd, 2017.

    Ruck marching is the latest trend in the world of “survival athletics.” It’s inspired by the tradition of military marches, where soldiers carry heavy packs to build endurance. When proper precautions are taken, “rucking” is a safe and highly-effective exercise for burning calories and building functional strength. More importantly to survivalists, it’s a great way of testing yourself for any future bug-out scenarios.

    Ruck survival fitness backpack bag bugout medical 7

    Of course, the question always comes up, “What do you carry in your pack on a given march?” You’ll need to carry a moderate amount of weight to see results, but that doesn’t mean you should go stuffing your ruck with sandbags. Read on to hear our thoughts on packing your ruck, and five common mistakes to avoid as you train.

    Essential Items for Your Ruck

    Beyond the prescribed dead weight, it’s wise to have some basics in your ruck to ensure you make it from point A to point B. Beyond the basic everyday-carry items, the wise rucker has some special gear.

    Ruck survival fitness backpack bag bugout medical 4
    The author carries an American-made GoRuck GR1 pack with the contents below.

    Water/hydration bottle: Bring what you need, and remember each gallon is slightly more than 8 pounds.

    Electrolyte tablets: You’ll be sweating. Replace those salts.

    Snacks: Not meals, just enough calories in easy-to-consume snacks to keep you going.

    Ruck survival fitness backpack bag bugout medical 11

    Headlamp: Just because it’s dark doesn’t mean you have to stop.

    Signal panel: A signal panel like the one from The Hidden Woodsman is light and inexpensive to keep cars off you.

    Cell phone: If you’re out on your own, don’t be stupid. Know when to say “when” if you can tell the difference between pain and injury.

    Ruck survival fitness backpack bag bugout medical 9

    Hat: Keep the sweat out of your eyes and rain off your face.

    Foot care: Package of moleskin and some duct tape. Good to go.

    Ruck survival fitness backpack bag bugout medical 8

    Extra clothes: Not a full wardrobe. Just a dry shirt and set of socks so you don’t have to stand all day in your funk.

    Selfie stick: First, punch yourself in the face then leave this at home.

    5 Rucking Mistakes to Avoid

    Once you have your gear in order, it’s time to hit the trail. Just make sure you that you don’t first commit any of these five common newbie mistakes:

    Ruck survival fitness backpack bag bugout medical 1

    1. Poor Diet
    Ask any serious athlete what the hardest aspect of training is and they will more than likely tell you it is diet. Trainer Johnny Ray Vega of New York City-based CrossFit BQE believes in using food as you need it, not as you want it. This means knowing your body, how it functions, and what is needed during a ruck.

    The human body is a machine that needs fuel. For optimal performance, the correct balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats must be supplied to it. Rucking taxes the body and burns calories. Depending on the fitness goal, the appropriate diet must be consumed for fat loss or muscle growth. A good diet is a frequent diet beyond three square meals. Five to seven meals a day every two hours is not uncommon. Not eating enough or appropriately is a cardinal mistake.

    Ruck survival fitness backpack bag bugout medical 3

    2. Lacking Hydration

    The body is composed of mostly water. When the body is deprived of water, the chances of injury increase with the level of dehydration experienced. Water consumption is important, and knowing how to hydrate is part of the formula to successful ruck marching. The human body can only absorb so much water at once. Water should be consumed in small quantities frequently rather than chugging a large quantity. This is why Camelbak-style bladders are popular with ruckers. Also, too much water can deprive the body of essential salts and electrolytes. Using a good electrolyte tablet like Nuun is recommended when the body sweats a lot.

    3. Too Heavy / Too Far / Too Fast

    When first getting started, the concept of burning significant calories or developing muscle can be attractive. This may lead the rucker to carry too heavy a weight, go too far a distance, or attempt to go too fast. Rucking need not be physically damaging to the body. When the happy medium of weight, distance, and speed are found, the body will hit its stride and the results desired will be achieved. Let this happen slowly; don’t force it or attempt to speed up the process.

    Ruck survival fitness backpack bag bugout medical 6

    4. Bad Footwear/Foot Care

    “Its gotta be the shoes” — remember this marketing slogan from the late ’80s? Well, in the rucking world, appropriate footwear and foot care can make or break the workout. Some new ruckers want to wear the heaviest boots. Others want to go minimalist. What is comfortable and appropriate will vary based on pronation, volume, and conditions. Regardless what is chosen, take care of the feet that go inside them. Keep toenails short, feet dry, and hot spots covered with moleskin. Disregarding these small issues lead to big problems. Keep your feet in good shape and they’ll carry you far.

    5. Too Warm

    The body has a natural furnace. When you burn calories, you stoke that fire and warm the body. A common mistake of the novice rucker is starting off too warm, loading up with clothes on a cold body. Instead of wearing multiple layers of clothing then having to stop to shed various garments, consider wearing a wicking layer and a wind-resistant shell. Start off cooler than you feel comfortable and trust your athleticism to warm you as you begin to sweat. Keep your groin, chest, underarms, and head warm and you can let your arms and legs take care of themselves. Going out too warm will cause you to dehydrate quickly and overheat. Work cooler and wear layers with deep zippers to allow you to vent.

    About the Author

    Ruck survival fitness backpack bag bugout medical 12

    Kevin Estela is the owner/head instructor of Estela Wilderness Education, a bushcraft and survival school in New England. He is a Sayoc Kali Associate Instructor, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, and an avid marksman. As a “survival athlete” he can be found regularly testing his physical and mental limitations in the gym, woods, and urban landscape preparing for the fight.

    It Pays to Be a Fitness Generalist

    By
    Offgrid Staff
    -
    0

    WARNING!
    The fitness exercises and content expressed in this column are for illustrative purposes only. Consult a medical professional before trying any physical activity or nutritional plan.

    When it hits the fan and all hell breaks loose, your breadth of preparedness — not so much the depth — will save you. People who are experts at one thing, but beginners at everything else, might last a couple of days, but eventually their lack of range in skillsets will catch up to them. Picture a hunter deep in the woods who can’t navigate without a GPS unit, or an expert but lost hiker who can’t start a fire without a lighter.

    Survivalists say that specialists perish while generalists persevere. The same understanding should be applied to fitness.

    Why Be A Fitness Generalist?

    You can’t afford to be a specialist. In a situation where you can’t always foresee the challenges you might face, it’s advisable to hope for the best and plan for the worst. A lot of us get jazzed up about a certain type of training, whether it’s running, strength training, or something entirely different. But while it’s great to be active, you have to train intelligently and plan ahead.

    When training for a specific event, you can identify specific types of training tailored for your needs. For example, when preparing for a powerlifting meet, you’ll want your strength to be high, with less emphasis on your aerobic training or endurance, relatively speaking. Training for a marathon would require the opposite approach. Because this results in physiological adaptations in your body, training for one area often comes at a cost to another, which is why your training needs to be specific to the demands of the event.

    But in everyday life, there could be any number of hazards in your future. So when there isn’t a specific event for which you’re training, you want to make sure all of your bases are covered — hence training to build multiple attributes at once. This is where being a fitness generalist pays off.

    Maximizing many physical attributes at the same time can be a tall order, but it can be done. It just takes some intelligent training and accepting the reality that maximizing many at once will limit their improvement more than if you were to focus on just one. We’ll focus on improving the four critical areas to your fitness level: power, strength, conditioning, and mobility. Let’s take a closer look at each one.

    Fitness: Power

    Strength and power are often used synonymously, but there’s a difference. This misconception tends to be perpetuated by the sport of powerlifting, which in reality should be called strength lifting, since it’s judged only by how much weight you can lift. The word power implies the existence of a time component as well. In our case, we’re looking to move a weight (or our bodies) as quickly as possible.

    While strength is very important, you also want to train for power, especially as you age. The aging population tends to lose power at an accelerated rate. It may seem silly to talk about power training for the older population, but preventing yourself from falling requires — you guessed it — power. We can trace the benefits all the way to children. In any intelligent sports performance program for kids, there will be some sort of power training even if it’s disguised as a game. If you happen to fall between these two extremes, power training will still be a game-changer for you. Improved power results in faster pushing speed, higher jumping, and quicker sprints just to name a few. Simply put, if you’re going to prepare for the worst, you need to train for power.

    Squat Jump

    squat-jumps for fitness

    1. Begin by standing with your feet shoulder width apart. Hold a kettlebell at arm’s length between your legs.
    2. Drive your hips back with your weight in your mid-foot.
    3. Aggressively push your feet into the floor as fast as you can.
    4. Landsoftly. Complete three sets of eight repetitions.

    Medicine Ball Chest Pass

    medicine-ball-chest-press

    1. Begin by standing about 8 feet in front of a wall, with the ball at your chest.
    2. Step forward and aggressively chest pass the ball forward. Complete three sets of 10 repetitions.

    Fitness: Strength

    Strength is the foundation for other physical qualities. When we build strength, we also improve other areas of fitness — whether it be fat loss, endurance training, or power. It’s not uncommon to see runners embark on a strength training program and improve their race times, or people struggling with weight loss to drop 5 pounds by adding more strength work. Strength should come first.

    Strength is typically trained with heavier weights and less repetitions. There are many methods to do this, but we’ll keep it simple with a pretty straightforward approach by using straight sets. What we’ll do a little differently, though, is put a special emphasis on three areas when training: the grip, the glutes, and the core (or abs). We’ll highlight these techniques further in the exercise descriptions, but rest assured, just focusing on these three areas can dramatically improve your strength instantly.

    Kettlebell Deadlift

    kettlebell-deadlift for fitness

    1. Place the kettlebell between your ankles, hip-width distance apart.
    2. Sit your hips back and crush the handle of the kettlebell with both hands. You should only be moving through your hips. Your back should remain completely flat.
    3. Push your heels into the floor, squeeze your butt hard, brace your abs, and drive your hips forward.
    4. Complete three sets of five to six repetitions.

    3-Point Kettlebell Row

    3-point-kettlebell-row

    1. Position yourself with one hand on a sturdy object about knee to mid-thigh height. Move your feet about 2 feet back in a symmetrical stance. Grab the kettlebell in the free hand and brace your abs.
    2. Squeeze the handle hard as you drive your elbow and shoulder blade back. Don’t let your elbow travel past your torso.
    3. Return to the starting position. Complete three sets of six repetitions.

    Fitness: Conditioning

    Conditioning will go a long way in your preparation for what may lie ahead. It’s common for people to neglect this area in favor of strength training, but that’s a huge mistake. The uncertainty of transportation or any number of escape situations should put endurance high on your priority list. If you have to hoof it for several miles (especially with equipment), you’ll thank your conditioning training. Aside from that, work in this area can help you with stress relief and improve your recovery from training.

    Running

    running for fitness

    Because of its obvious practicality and lack of required equipment, we can’t overlook running as being a primary method of conditioning work. There’s no reason to overcomplicate things here, so we’ll keep it simple.

    In this case, tailor your low-intensity running to a level where you can still have a conversation with someone. For this, start at 30 minutes of continuous, low-intensity running. If 30 minutes is too much, end when you feel you aren’t able to continue. Slowly build up in five-minute increments each week. The end goal is about 60 minutes of continuous running twice per week.

    Kettlebell Clean

    The kettlebell clean is a bit off the beaten path in terms of your typical kettlebell-based exercises. While those in the fitness industry are familiar with it, to the general population, it’s not the most common of exercises. We use a kettlebell due to the need of just a single object, in addition to the fantastic benefit this exercise provides. When you’re confined to a small space, or limited on equipment, a kettlebell is a clear choice for conditioning training.

    kettlebell-clean

    1. Begin with a kettlebell in the rack position, held on one side at your chest.
    2. Next, keep the kettlebell close to your body as you bring it down and swing it between your legs. As it moves down, drive your hips backward and bear your weight in your heels.
    3. Explosively drive your hips forward, squeeze your butt, and brace your abs. At about waist height, pull the kettlebell toward you, rotate your hand outward, and punch your hand through the bell. It should fall gently into the rack position; it shouldn’t slam into your forearm. This will take a little bit of practice.
    4. Complete one to two times per week, 10 to 15 rounds of five repetitions per side, with 30 seconds of rest between rounds.

    The Brettzel

    the-brettzel for fitness

    1. Begin by lying on your right side with your right hand holding your left knee.
    2. Next, grab your right ankle with your left hand.
    3. Turn your head to look to the left, and slowly bring your left shoulder to the ground. This will be difficult at first, but focus on using your breathing to deepen the stretch. Inhale through your nose, and as you exhale through your mouth, move deeper into the stretch.
    4. Complete one repetition of five breaths on each side.

    Fitness: Mobility

    Mobility training is important to include because it will allow you to move more easily through a greater range of motion at various joints. This is vital on many levels, most notably an increased resistance to injury. Because the body is structured as an interconnected series of joints, when one is immobile, it’ll affect other areas, which is commonly when injuries occur. And no one, not even the most prepared survivalist, is as effective if injured when SHTF. Maintain the key areas of ankles, hips, and shoulders, which will go a long way to keeping you up and moving.

    To safeguard you from injury and make you more resilient, include three to five days per week of mobility work. It’ll fit right into the strength and conditioning work, so do stretches before and/or after your workouts. This will slowly improve mobility in its own right, as well as help prepare you for your training.

    Conclusion

    Rather than going an inch wide and a mile deep with our preparation, let’s do the opposite. Your ability to react to new challenges and respond accordingly will be the biggest determinant of your survival. We’ve given you the information here to cover the bases and have some peace of mind that you’ve done what you can to take some risk off the table.

    More From Issue 13

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    Read articles from the next issue of Recoil Offgrid: Issue 14

    Read articles from the previous issue of Recoil Offgrid: Issue 12

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

    Prometheus Design Werx Ti-Bar T Pocket Tool Review

    By
    Nicholas Italiano
    -
    0
    PDW Pocket tool TI-Bar T

    I have always wondered if a pocket carry pry bar was a worthwhile tool to add to my repertoire. Admittedly I thought they were a gimmick until I committed the most cardinal of sins every EDC‘er will eventually commit. I used the tip of my pocket knife blade as a pry bar and flathead screwdriver. That worked out about as well as you’d think it did. SNAP! The modified sheepsfoot blade turned into a chisel tip. It became clear that pocket tool may be a worthwhile addition to my EDC lineup and Prometheus Design Werx had what I was looking for!

    Prometheus Design Werx Ti-Bar T Pocket tool pry bar

    The Prometheus Design Werx Ti-Bar T Pocket Tool

    Prometheus Design Werx presents the lightweight low-profile Ti-Bar T multipurpose pocket tool. The Ti-Bar T is the perfect companion for the EDC minded fan of precision and elegance. Consider the Ti-Bar T as a force multiplier when paired with your everyday carry items. It can do the jobs your pocket knife shouldn’t without adding the weight and bulk typically associated with your average multitool. 

    Design and Execution

    From the moment you lay your hands on the Ti-BarT you’ll feel the dedication to machining, design, and craftsmanship. The attention to detail is tremendous, with every small detail being well thought out and free of stray marks and uncomfortable edges. 

    The Prometheus Design Werx Ti-BarT is precision milled from 6AL-4V titanium. PDW attempts to make the most of the small footprint, while striking the delicate balance of utility and style. 

    At 5” in overall length the Ti-BarT has a tapered chisel head for its main use of prying. It also has an oxygen/gas tank wrench, a heavy-duty titanium billet pocket clip with ceramic bearing and integrated ¼” / 6mm bit socket, bottle opener, a generously sized lanyard loop, meticulously machined fine jimping to ensure a solid grip. The radius is machined to a 45-degree angle to finish off another truly classy design Prometheus Design Werx has become known for as a premium brand.

    PDW Ti-Bar T Pocket Pry Bar

    Drawbacks and Benefits

    The Prometheus Design Werx Ti-BarT is small pocket pry bar, you certainly won’t be using it to pry open a car or building door. It is also pricy for a small tool, and some may not feel comfortable paying t close to $70 for a pocket tool. Despite the size limitations, PDW does pack a great deal of convenience and utility into a very small package. While it may not be the first choice for a hardcore survival tool, it will handle all your day-to-day prying tasks like a champion, help you maintain your folding knives, open a cold one, and take up next to no room in your pocket or EDC kit. It does all this while also looking great. The slick design combined with excellent machining provides a feeling of sophistication and style that is sure to stand out at your next backyard BBQ or around the campfire!

    Prometheus Design Werx Ti-Bar T Pocket Tool

    Prometheus Design Werx Ti-Bar T Pocket Tool SPECS

    Length: 5.0″ / 127mm

    Width: 0.69″ / 17.50mm

    Thickness: 0.25″ / 6.37mm

    Material: 6AL-4V Titanium Grade 5

    Included Pocket Tool Features:

    Pry Bar

    Oxygen/Gas Tank Wrench

    Pocket Clip Integrated ¼” / 6mm Bit Socket

    Bottle Cap Lifter

    Lanyard Hole

    Titanium Billet Pocket Clip w/Ceramic Ball Bearing

    Sources

    Prometheus Design Werx

    Read More

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    BRVO TACTICAL: CQB, Flat Range, Long Range, and More

    By
    Patrick Diedrich
    -
    0
    Two adult men training with firearms at BRVO Tactical's new training facility.

    With the wide and wild range of firearm instruction available to the public today, it can be hard to distinguish the good instructors from the bad on social media. When we find the good ones, we like to share them with the world so we can all have the chance to learn from the best. Two of our RECOIL editors got the chance to attend the grand opening of BRVO Tactical’s Sierra 1 training site in Arizona, up in the mountains north of Phoenix. It was a weekend filled with good times, great instruction, and some amazing sunsets.

    Meet The Instructors

    BRVO Tactical was founded by a mix of Army SF (a.k.a. Green Beret) and Arizona SWAT team members who combined their experiences and talents with outstanding results.

    The founder and lead instructor, who we’ll call simply “BRVO” for now, is still on active duty in Army Special Forces and is the senior 18B on his team. Thus the name BRVO (pronounced “Bravo”) Tactical. An expert in a wide range of tactics, weapons, and training, he offers an exemplary mix of know-how and communication to teach shooters of every skill level.

    Two adult men training with a shot timer at BRVO Tactical's new training facility.

    BRVO Tactical’s other lead instructor Mike Wallace brings over 20 years of police experience and 17 years of SWAT experience, 16 of those as a SWAT sniper. Mike is also the mind behind most of the design and construction of the Sierra 1 site. From Mike’s brain to reality, the Sierra 1 site sports an impressive range of training options that feel like an amusement park for shooting enthusiasts. And they aren’t even close to being done with all the plans.

    Other staff at BRVO Tactical include more active-duty SWAT officers, firefighter medics, and military veterans — each experts in their fields who have a clear passion for sharing what they know.

    Grand Opening Event

    Officially launched in late June 2024, the grand opening was an awesome display of what BRVO Tactical has to offer. Less of a weekend dedicated to training any single discipline and more a demo of all the options, the grand opening was an event I’m glad to have been a part of… even if my weekend started rough with a doe elk jumping in front of my truck on the drive up.

    7,000 Feet Closer To The Arizona Sun 

    To find the exact location of Sierra 1, you’ll have to attend a class, and you absolutely should. But to set the stage, the land at BRVO Tactical is beautiful just as a natural environment. Before the guns come out and the air fills with the scent of spent powder, you need to take a moment and just soak in the wonderful setting of the 100-acre property nestled on top of Arizona’s Mogollon Rim.

    A picturesque sunset at the Sierra 1 range.

    At around 7k feet of elevation, training is possible even in July. While Phoenix bakes at 110 degrees, it is a much more comfortable mid-80s at the Sierra 1 site.

    Camping on-site is recommended and doesn’t cost extra, but hotels are available about 40 minutes from the location. I highly recommend camping. Whether you bring a tent, sleep in your car, or tow in an RV trailer, it’s worth it to spend each evening around the campfire getting to know the instructors and your fellow shooters.

    Flat Range 

    A flat range is a flat range in most cases, but what you do with the flat range is what makes all the difference.

    Day one of the grand opening involved some simple drills and instruction, mostly for the instructors to see how well the students did and to ensure we were all safe and sane shooters.

    An adult male shooting a firearm at the Sierra 1 Range.

    Day two on the flat range ratcheted up the intensity with a competition stage for the shooters to test their mettle on. BRVO Tactical doesn’t go easy on anyone, so come prepared to run, sweat, and shoot with an elevated heart rate. The flat range competition stage included carrying a heavy bag of sand about 50 yards before engaging steel targets from several props, including a tank trap, tractor tire, and vertical post.

    The steel went from a small torso size down to a plate only a few inches round. Making hits while winded is a skill that never hurts to develop.

    BRVO Tactical has no shortage of creative shooting stations or targets for the flat range and can really turn up the difficulty when they want. Maybe next time they’ll have us roll or flip those tractor tires before shooting, as they’ve done in previous courses.

    Bay Two 

    A mid-range bay that looks out over the rolling hills of the property, steel targets can be found scattered in all sorts of places. From 100 yards out to over 700 yards, Bay Two has a lot to offer. If you want to train precision shooting, shooting around or through the brush, or doing some positional shooting out of the Humvee, Bay Two is awesome.

    An adult male shooting from a crouched position behind an obstacle.

    The possibilities for this range are nearly endless and make for a great area to ease you into the longer shots possible on the land.

    Day One was filled with positional shooting and getting our rifles dialed in for shots to at least 300 yards with some special targets closer to 600. Having sniper instructors calling hits and misses makes life easier and got even the newest shooter with just a red dot to connect on steel.

    From wood props to tripods to the back of the Humvee, BRVO Tactical makes just a few pieces of equipment transform into a plethora of instructional opportunities.  

    An instructor advises a shooter behind a firing position at BRVO Tactical's Sierra 1 range.

    Day Two on Bay Two was another stage that sounded easier than it was in practice. There were 5 steel pistol targets and 5 rifle targets, with 1 hit per target required and no penalty for immediate re-engagements. The pistol steel was placed at about 10 yards and the small gongs were a quick clean sweep for me. The rifle targets ranged from about 150 yards out to a little over 300 yards, and had to be engaged while making contact with any part of a wood tank trap. Again, not crazy hard, but very fun.

    I don’t mind bragging a little — I managed to pull the best time on Bay Two.

    Huge thanks to True Shot ammo for setting us up with some 77gr PMC ammo. Making hits past 300 yards is a lot easier when you’re shooting good ammo.

    CQB House 

    As a civilian shooter, CQB isn’t something I had a chance to be exposed to yet, so getting some room clearing instruction from people who knew what they were doing was a great piece of training for me.

    Two adult males train to clear a room with firearms.

    Focusing on single-man door entry and room clearing (since most of the class were civilians and the most likely time we would need to do this is clearing our own home), the staff broke the room into two sections. The SF instructor took one group of students and the SWAT instructor took the other half before the groups switched.

    Getting to see two styles and two schools of thought at almost the same time was not only interesting but highly educational.

    Big Red 

    Named after one of our own — Patrick, the man in charge at RECOIL OFFGRID — Big Red is a long and rugged trail that serves as a great way of leveling the playing field for students to see where they fall short.

    Adult male training at the Sierra 1 range.

    I won’t spoil all the details, but it involves several minutes of running over natural terrain and making hits out to 300 yards in some tricky conditions. If a target is missed, it can be engaged with a second shot, but two misses incurs a hefty 30-second penalty, so you’ll need to be careful and make every round count. 

    An adult male takes aim at a target in the distance at BRVO Tactical's range.

    Big Red is fun. Hard, but very fun. Every student was gassed by the end, but grinning ear-to-ear and expressing a desire to go again.

    More to Come

    BRVO Tactical isn’t finished building everything they want to build. But given the way they approach training, they may never be totally finished. There is always something new you can do, or a new curveball they can throw to keep you on your toes.

    From sniper towers to second run-and-gun course to more CQB buildings, BRVO Tactical has more coming.

    BRVO Tactical instructors look out over the landscape at their new range.

    The land at the Sierra 1 site is amazing. The training courses are impressive. But it is the staff that makes it worth it. Finding good education isn’t easy, but the guys in charge at BRVO Tactical are excellent. 

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    Editor’s Note: This article was modified from the original web article published by David Lane at Recoilweb.com

    Situational Awareness Evaluation: Part 1

    By
    Offgrid Staff
    -
    0

    Editor’s Note: The following article on situational awareness was written by Yousef Badou, the founder of Emergence, a company that offers behavioral analysis and threat identification training to government agencies and Fortune 500 companies. For more on Yousef’s background, read our interview “Predatory Premonition” from Issue 37 of Offgrid magazine.

    Yousef in one of Saddam’s palaces after the Invasion of Iraq in 2003.
    Yousef in one of Saddam’s palaces after the Invasion of Iraq in 2003.

    Task, Condition, Standard — this was the mantra beaten into my head as a young Marine heading off to war, and it again followed me back when I landed in the School of Infantry to teach the Combat Hunter Program for the next decade. What am I supposed to do, what’s going to affect me doing it, and how do I know if I did it right? When it comes to situational awareness and understanding the signals the environment is giving all the time, it’s very hard to quantify these answers on paper.

    If you look at the term “situational awareness,” it’s right there in the name — situational. It’s completely subjective to the individual and what they bring to the table regarding education, training, and experiences. Just like in combat, when seconds count and your life depends on making the right decision, being able to evaluate your own level of situational awareness is critical. So how do I go about teaching you how to be aware of your surroundings and look for pre-event indicators of a threat?

    If I tell you that someone is moving toward you at a faster pace than the crowd around them, they have exaggerated arm swings, and they are red in the face, this person might be preparing to do violence based on the indicated behaviors. However, what if their attention isn’t actually directed at you, but at someone behind you? What if it’s not anger you’re seeing, but a medical event? Are you standing right in front of the entrance to a public bathroom? If that’s the case, you might want to get out of the way.

    Situational Awareness Across Industries

    image if a Boston Marathon Memorial

    Above: Countless real-world tragedies have proven the importance of threat awareness, especially in crowded public areas.

    It’s different for everyone, and it even varies from industry to industry. For example, when a pilot talks about situational awareness, they’re usually referring to their instrumentation, the flight of the aircraft, and other aircraft in the vicinity. Firefighters, on the other hand, use situational awareness to understand where their team is, where the fire is, and, most importantly, where the fire could potentially spread. Therefore, it’s important to be aware of the different types of situational awareness and how they can be applied in different situations. By doing so, you’ll be better prepared to handle whatever comes your way.

    There’s a lot of variables at play when it comes to situational awareness. And because of all this variation, there’s no way I can teach everyone how to be perfectly aware with all these different variables in one article. So, let’s dial down the problem and teach you how to evaluate the level of your own personal awareness and what you might need to improve.

    Your Situational Awareness “Shot Group”

    situational awareness diagram

    We’ll do this over a series of articles together as we build out your Personal Awareness Shot Group Evaluator. It basically works like a visual for different sections of skills you have or need to improve on. On a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being a bull’s-eye, 1 being the edge of the target), you’ll “plot” the awareness skills you need for your everyday life. Depending on what you do, this pie might only have two wedges or it might have 10, but at the end of this article you need to plot honestly where you are on the pie. The closer the shot group, the more Jason Bourne you are. The wider the shot group, the more comatose you are.

    Situational Awareness First Wedge: Specific Threat Knowledge

    In this first section, you’re going to learn about a specific threat in your area or something that you’ve been worrying about. Your subconscious has a funny way of keeping these things locked up, but by asking some questions, you can bring this information to the surface. Depending on what your background is, the answer to these will vary pretty widely. If you want to build out the wedges in your pie, you need to ask yourself specific questions about your situation and violence that could happen to you.

    How could someone hurt me physically?

    Be reasonable when you answer these questions and don’t let paranoia take effect. Most people aren’t being hunted down by ISIS. Look to crime statistics, news reporting about violence, and common accidental injuries and apply this data to your situation. If you’re a in law enforcement profession, this list will probably be pretty wide and varied. If you work remotely from home and enjoy a normal family life, you’ll have a shorter list.

    How would they do it?

    Are there any observable patterns being followed? Same car, same time, same amount of people, etc. What is the bad guy’s typical modus operandi?

    What are the observable threat indicators?

    Are there any visual indicators that they are about to conduct a crime or violent act? The precious few seconds you have before violence can make or break your response, so look for any hints that an act is about to pop off. Search for news articles with CCTV footage of violent crimes in your area and study the actions of the perpetrators seconds before the event. After watching a few incidents, you’re likely to begin seeing some recurring patterns.

    Situational Awareness Assessment Example

    utilizing situational awareness to evaluate the area

    Above: Consider your lifestyle and the most likely threats you may face. If your whole list sounds like a run-down of scenes from an action movie, you’re probably not being honest with yourself.

    Let’s imagine I am the head of my family and there are reports of “follow-home home invasions” in my neighborhood. I’m a software engineer and know nothing about home invasions. This would put my “shot” on the outside of the target, so I’d have a lot of work to do to become better prepared. I read in the news report that the victim of a recent attack survived but suffered blunt-force trauma to the head when one assailant struck him with a tire iron. The other four perpetrators carried tire irons too. They followed the victim home from their place of work and attacked when the victim was stepping out of their car.

    How can someone hurt me physically?

    Multiple assailants, at least four, using blunt objects in a robbery attempt.

    How would they do it?

    Based on the only report I have, it appears these assailants used a late-model Honda Civic with tinted windows. They laid in wait at the parking lot of the victim and followed them home to the residence. When the victim stepped from the vehicle, the assailants drove the vehicle into the driveway at a high speed, blocking the victim. They waited until they were out of the car so they could get the keys and force the victim into the home. The victim was struck in the first few seconds of the assault, so they’re quick to use violence.

    Observable Threat Indicators

    • Late-model Honda with tinted windows
    • Multiple individuals waiting in car
    • Lurking vehicle in victim’s workplace
    • Following the victim home
    • Sudden acceleration into driveway
    • Screeching tires
    • Tire irons

    So, now that I did my research on these home invasions, I can move my shot on this pie wedge closer to the middle. From a 1 to a 3. Good enough, right? Wrong! You’re on the paper, but you’re still not hitting black. You have to apply this information; it’s not enough to just understand academically. You have to extrapolate as much info as you can.

    image of a armed masked assailant

    Above: When faced with a violent threat, it’s all too easy to freeze up or tell yourself “this can’t be happening.” Preparation and forethought can help you avoid these instinctive reactions.

    A Smart Person Would…

    A savvy person who wants to move that shot from a 3 to a 7 wouldn’t only research and write all these things out, but they’d also disseminate the info to their people. For the above example, you could take your findings and let your neighbors and local associations know what to look for, and now you’re building an in-depth defense around your neighborhood. It doesn’t just have to be you out there by yourself, Captain America.

    But a Ninja…

    If you want to be a true ninja when it comes to personal safety, you need to be proactive. You can’t just sit around and wait for something bad to happen. Get out there and touch the grass, talk to your neighbors, and establish a baseline for what’s the normal pattern of life on your street. After all, you can’t know what’s abnormal if you don’t know what the norm is in the first place. By being proactive and establishing a baseline, you’ll be able to see when something new is introduced and take steps to protect yourself accordingly. So, go ahead and get out there — your neighborhood needs you.

    Situational Awareness Second Wedge: Response to Violence

    How you react to a threat of violence is determined long before the threat actually appears. It’s based on a combination of factors, but the biggest one is your exposure to real-world violence (not TV and movies). So, if we’ve researched the threat and its indicators, do we have the ability to counter it? The training, physicality, tools, or systems developed to prevent threats can’t just sit around gathering dust — we have to train and develop them all the time. Otherwise, we’re sitting ducks.

    If you’re not used to violence or threats, you’re up against a lot when it comes to reacting quickly in a dangerous situation. Your brain and eyes are working against you, with cognitive loads, channel capacity, denial, and more factors all slowing down your reaction time. But there are things you can do to train yourself to react more quickly in a crisis. By getting familiar with the signs of danger and practicing your responses, you can learn to overcome the natural hesitation that can cost you precious seconds in an emergency. With some practice, you’ll be better prepared to handle whatever comes your way.

    Deny Denial

    When it comes to personal awareness, one of the most dangerous traps you can fall into is denial. In a split-second, your brain tries to protect you from the shock of seeing something threatening by telling you it can’t be real. “There’s no way that guy just punched him,” or “There’s no way he just pulled out a gun.” But unfortunately, denial can cost you your life. The best way to protect yourself is to be aware of this trap and be ready to face the reality of a threat, no matter how shocking or unthinkable it may seem. By staying calm and focused, you can give yourself a fighting chance in any situation. Use these techniques to slam a lid on denial if you ever find yourself in a violent situation and you don’t know what to do.

    situational awareness allows people to act quickly

    Above: Once we get past “this can’t be happening,” the next reaction is often “why is this happening?” Both responses are a waste of precious time — accept what’s happening and take action as quickly as possible.

    Stop Stopping

    This line was shamelessly stolen from an Iron Man movie, and it’s one of the best pieces of advice for anyone who finds themselves dealing with violence. Stop stopping! Whatever you’re doing, keep doing it. If all you can do is run, then run and keep going. Once you cease your momentum in these events, it’s very hard to start again due to fear, so keep fighting.

    Improve Your Position

    I used to hear this often when training for jiujitsu. If you’re on your back, try to get to your side; if you’re on top, try to go full mount. Always improve your position. This might mean barricading yourself in a room or fashioning school chairs into weapons. Notice I highlighted try. You might be completely exhausted, in pain and hopeless, but you never stop trying.

    You’re the Leader

    Most people will default to denial and inaction when faced with a threat or violence. This can get you hurt just as much as your own actions. If you look around the room when a violent event kicks off and there’s not someone up there hollering orders at people and getting them moving, then, guess what, buttercup? You’re it. Get loud, use your hands to direct people, and even put your hands on them to get them moving, because no one else is doing anything. Carpe that diem!

    Delete the Word “Why”

    When violence or a threat erupts, the last thing you need to ask yourself is why. Why is a word for later, why is a word for the detectives to ask after they clean up the mess. If someone is moving toward me in an aggressive fashion with a brick in their hand, then why doesn’t matter. Nor do I care. I’m just trying to figure out how to take possession of said brick.

    Closing Thoughts

    image of crime scene

    Above: The best way to overcome violence is to avoid it entirely. Proactive situational awareness can help you do exactly that.

    So, if you’ve been following along “plotting your shots,” you should have a circle with two pie wedges. One shot in the “Specific Threat Knowledge” category and another labeled “Response to Threat.” If you had zero exposure to this knowledge, you should’ve started off somewhere near the edge of the target with both shots, but by understanding how to evaluate yourself, we can now move those shots closer to the middle. I’ll be filling out more sections in the next two articles of this series, so make sure to follow along until the end. Every one of these sections builds on the other and just one missing component can ruin your day.

    So, how did you do? How aware are you of your surroundings, and what can you do to improve upon that awareness? The situational awareness “Shot Group” is a great starting point, but it’s not the be-all and end-all. There will always be new situations to face and challenges to overcome, so keep honing your skills and stay vigilant. Remember, situational awareness isn’t about being paranoid or living in a state of constant fear; it’s about being prepared for anything that comes your way. With that preparation comes peace of mind and an increased chance of survival should the unexpected happen.

    About the Author

    Yousef Badou is the owner and founder of Emergence, a service-disabled veteran-owned small business (SDVOSB) providing behavioral awareness training to Fortune 500 companies, military, and other government agencies. Yousef began his journey into security training after multiple deployments with the United States Marine Corps. He’s an Arabic speaker and former infantryman, along with being the longest-standing member of the USMC Combat Hunter Training Program. With so many threats on the horizon, Yousef believes the best way to disrupt these threats is through education on pre-event indicators and behaviors of violence. www.emergencedisrupt.com

    Read More

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