Primitive Technology: Making Termite Mound Clay & Pottery

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If you’re interested in bushcraft and primitive survival skills, Primitive Technology never fails to entertain. This Aussie YouTuber continually produces videos that are as informative as they are impressive. In the past, we’ve followed along as he built a grass hut, trapped wild shrimp, and tilled a sustainable garden. As his miniature settlement evolves, he remains silent, and dutifully documents each step on camera.

Primitive Technology termite clay kiln pottery fire 0

A termite mound provides the raw material necessary for clay production.

This week’s Primitive Technology video shows how to gather natural clay from termite mounds, dig out a kiln, and process the clay into several types of simple pottery.

Primitive Technology termite clay kiln pottery fire 1

This hole in the ground was gradually built upward into a kiln.

The process starts with breaking off pieces of termite mound, crushing them into smaller chunks, adding water, and working the mixture into a paste by stepping on it with bare feet. This new termite clay and some existing river clay were stacked around a fire pit in the ground, and sculpted into a kiln — that is, an insulated high-temperature oven used for hardening pottery, tiles, or bricks.

A clay base grate was installed atop the fire pit, and circular walls were built around it. Fire was used to periodically harden the structure. With the kiln complete, it was then time to gather more clay for pottery production. The host chose a red clay termite mound, crushing it and adding water once more.

Primitive Technology termite clay kiln pottery fire 4

The red clay was formed into several items: a large urn, a small pot, a forge blower (no doubt for a future video), and some roof tiles. After heating the pottery to a dull glow in the kiln for a few hours and allowing it to cool, it was ready to remove and use. The urn was used to water the cassava and yam garden he built in his last video.

Primitive Technology termite clay kiln pottery fire 6

Watch the full 11-minute video below. Remember to turn on subtitles for added info as the video progresses, and check the video description for a highly-detailed analysis of each step.

At this rate, it seems like the host will be entering the Bronze Age within a few dozen more videos. We can’t wait to see him smelting ore and forging blades.

New: KnifeRobot 5-Minute Auto Blade Sharpener

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The day is finally upon us. A powerful robot is out there. It can’t be bargained with, can’t be reasoned with, it doesn’t feel pity or remorse or fear. It absolutely will not stop, ever… until your knives are sharp. Dull edges will be terminated. We can only hope it has the capacity to learn the value of human life.

KnifeRobot blade sharpener tool machine 1

Like the Cyberdyne Systems Model 101, the technology behind the KnifeRobot was born in the heart of Silicon Valley, California. Fortunately, unlike the Terminator, this machine is not designed to kill — it’s a helpful little robot. In fact, it’s claimed to be the world’s first patented automatic knife sharpening technology.

The KnifeRobot uses a complex array of sensors, motors, and abrasive belts to produce a razor-sharp edge in about 5 minutes (severely worn edges may take longer). It is said to work on fixed blades, folding knives, and even straight razors. Here’s a breakdown of how it works, based on info from the company’s IndieGoGo page:

  1. Insert a knife into the machine. Blade length must be between 2 and 10 inches, width must be no more than 4 inches, and thickness must be no more than 3/8-inch. Inclusive grind angle must be less than 40 degrees. Aside from these limits, the KnifeRobot is said to handle “any shape up to +/- 30 degrees from horizontal position” including tanto grinds, and will even sharpen serrations on blades.
  2. Press the start button. You can also customize grind angle, speed, and pressure if desired. Then walk away — the machine will handle the rest.
  3. A shape sensor will run along the blade, detecting its size, shape, and profile.
  4. The coarse belt will grind one side of the blade edge, then the other.
  5. A microscopic camera will analyze the burr on the edge.
  6. A fine grinding belt will remove the burr from each side of the knife.
  7. Built-in auto storage can retain multiple knives until you return and remove them from the KnifeRobot.

See below for a scaled-up functional prototype of the machine in action.

The belts inside the KnifeRobot are said to last for about 100 sharpenings, and replacements can be purchased on Amazon for about $10. There are two versions of this machine: a portable consumer version (pictured here) suitable for the home or workshop, and a professional-grade version that can be built into a kitchen countertop. The professional built-in knife sharpener is designed for chefs, and will automatically sharpen knives based on how frequently they’re used.

KnifeRobot blade sharpener tool machine 3

KnifeRobot hasn’t hit full production yet, but the company has developed working prototypes, as well as the portable model design seen here. It is crowdfunding through IndieGoGo to head into production during mid-2017. For more info on this interesting new tech, check out KnifeRobot.com (this currently redirects to the IndieGoGo campaign). Backers of the campaign can pre-order a portable KnifeRobot for $299 with expected delivery in October 2017; the retail MSRP is expected to be $700. The built-in professional model will set you back $5000.

Looking Back: Best Products of SHOT Show 2017

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Our entire editorial team attends the SHOT Show in Las Vegas every January, but this year we did something new. From the hundreds of products we saw, our team selected a handful of items we
found most innovative and interesting from an urban survival perspective. Each of these products were bestowed with one of our new awards, and became part of the RECOIL OFFGRID Best Products of SHOT Show 2017.

Best of SHOT Show 2017 Awards

We devised nine award categories this year — note that these categories may change or be eliminated in future years, depending on what we find at the show. If there’s nothing particularly innovative or new in one of the nine fields, or there’s something extremely cool in a segment we haven’t addressed, we’ll add or subtract categories accordingly.

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Also, please note that these picks are based solely on our initial impressions during SHOT Show, so we couldn’t determine at that time how the products would hold up to real-world testing. If something looked awesome on the show floor but falls flat on its face in practical tests, we’ll be sure to let you know.

Without further ado, here are our picks for the Best of SHOT Show 2017. As we get our hands on each product and have time to test it thoroughly, we’ll add links to this article to direct you to our in-depth reviews. So be sure to return to this page or follow us on social media for updates on these products.

Best Firearm: Hudson H9 Pistol

OFFGRID best of SHOT Show awards Hudson H9 gun 1

Each editor put some rounds through this futuristic looking handgun at SHOT’s Industry Range Day and walked away impressed. Some describe it as the lovechild of a 1911 and a Glock; it’s supremely comfortable and surprisingly light, and follow-up shots are effortless.

To find out why we think it’s the most promising new firearm of 2017, read the full in-depth review by RECOIL Editor Iain Harrison in Issue 29 of our sister publication. He wrote, “It’s always refreshing to see American innovation is alive and well, particularly in an unknown startup company. We wish the Hudson team well, and look forward to the success of their baby.”

There’s not much more we can say that RECOIL hasn’t already said, so we’ll leave future updates on the Hudson in their capable hands.

Best Accessory: MAGPUL X-22 Backpacker

OFFGRID best of SHOT Show awards Magpul X22 backpacker gun 2

This clever rifle stock design clips together, making transportation of a disassembled Ruger 10/22 Takedown fast and easy. It fits all factory Ruger 10/22 Takedown models, as well as many aftermarket barrels, such as the Tactical Solutions SB-X and Volquartsen Ultralite.

OFFGRID best of SHOT Show awards Magpul X22 backpacker gun 2v2

The MAGPUL X-22 Backpacker also incorporates two storage compartments: one under the cheek piece for three 10-round spare magazines or a box of ammo, and one inside the grip for a ferro rod, small knife, fishing kit, or other survival tools. It will be available in spring 2017 in black, FDE, OD green, and stealth grey colors. MSRP is $110.

REVIEW COMING SOON

Best Knife: White River Knives Firecraft

OFFGRID best of SHOT Show awards White River Firecraft knife 3

Three no-nonsense survival blades, with 4-, 5-, and 7-inch options to choose from. Each S30V stainless knife includes a divot for use with a fire-bow as well as a striking notch for use with the included ferro rod. Each knife also includes a leather sheath, which retains the knife and ferro rod.

OFFGRID best of SHOT Show awards White River Firecraft knife 3v2

The Firecraft FC4, FC5, and FC7 are available for $240, $280, and $320, respectively. We’re currently working to obtain an FC5 for a review — stay tuned.

Review: White River Firecraft FC5 Review

Best Light: Streamlight Bandit Headlamp

OFFGRID best of SHOT Show awards Streamlight Bandit headlamp 4

It’s lightweight and compact, but produces an ultra-wide 180-lumen beam. It’s also USB-rechargeable, weather-resistant, and impact-resistant. Plus, it includes a headband and a hat clip.

OFFGRID best of SHOT Show awards Streamlight Bandit headlamp 4v2

The Streamlight Bandit looks to provide a lot of value for its $35 MSRP, but only testing will reveal that for sure.

REVIEW COMING SOON

Best Tool: Tuff Writer Mini-Click Gen 2 Tactical Pen

OFFGRID best of SHOT Show awards Tuff Writer pen 5

The second generation of this tactical pen features new titanium, brass, and copper materials in a variety of finishes. Each pen is made in the USA with a slick updated version of the company’s 416SS ball-bearing mechanism. Hit the link below to read our full review.

REVIEW: Tuff Writer Mini-Click Gen 2 Tactical Pen Review

Best Backpack: Crye Precision EXP

OFFGRID best of SHOT Show awards Crye Precision EXP backpack 6

Crye calls the EXP 1500 and 2100 “everyday-use bags with maximum tactical utility.” They’re designed for those who want to go gray in urban environments, and are made in the USA from domestically sourced materials. Each pack expands upward and outward, adding 500 cubic inches of volume and capacity for items up to 27 inches long.

OFFGRID best of SHOT Show awards Crye Precision EXP backpack 6v2

We’re interested to see how these backpacks fare during real-world testing in an urban environment.

REVIEW COMING SOON

Best Jacket: Kitanica Mark IV

OFFGRID best of SHOT Show awards Kitanica Mark IV jacket 7

Motorcycle gear meets tactical apparel to create one unique jacket. The original Mark IV was released 21 years ago and popularized on TV by Adam Savage of MythBusters. Kitanica has completely redesigned the jacket for 2017 with stronger materials and more of the company’s signature articulated padding.

OFFGRID best of SHOT Show awards Kitanica Mark IV jacket 7v2

There are tons of pockets, zippered pouches, cinches, and even some PALS webbing. Its ultra-tough 1000-denier CORDURA fabric is treated in urethane coating for water resistance, and it’s made in the USA. At an MSRP of $669, it’s certainly an expensive piece of apparel, but we’ll see if its features justify the price tag.

Review: Kitanica Mark IV Jacket Review

Best Pants: 5.11 Tactical Defender-Flex Jeans

OFFGRID best of SHOT Show awards 511 Tactical Defender Flex jeans 8

These may look like ordinary blue jeans, but they add a new level of capability while remaining discreet. Seven deep pockets provide room for EDC gear and gun magazines, while stretch fabric is designed to improve flexibility. Not the first pair of tactical jeans ever created, but certainly among the most comfortable and functional.

REVIEW: 5.11 Defender-Flex Jeans & Pants Review

Social Award: Klecker Knives Stowaway Tools

OFFGRID best of SHOT Show awards Klecker stowaway tools 9

Our photo of this new system from Klecker Knives quickly garnered hundreds of likes on our Instagram, outpacing the other products we photographed at SHOT and earning it our Social Award. Whether they’re stowed on a carabiner, KeyBar, or in Klecker’s iPhone case, the Stowaway system lets you roll your own multitool from more than a dozen mini-gadgets.

OFFGRID best of SHOT Show awards Klecker stowaway tools 9v2

Tool options include: belt cutter, fire starter, folding knife, Kwikset and Schlage blank keys, pliers, Philips/flat screwdriver, tweezers, comb, flashlight, Griffin pocket tool, pen, pocket clip/bottle opener, scissors, straight razor, and hex wrench. That’s a whole lot of versatility in a small package, and with the mix-match format, you won’t be stuck carrying extra tools you never use.

REVIEW COMING SOON

CDC Guide on Tick Prevention & Disease Risks

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Ticks are insidious little parasites. They detect breath, body odor, body heat, moisture, vibrations, and the presence of light and shadows to find a well-traveled path. Once they’ve staked out a hiding place, they patiently cling to the end of a leaf or blade of grass with two of their eight legs outstretched, waiting for an unsuspecting animal or human to walk by. As soon as a host brushes against the hiding place, the tick climbs aboard and searches for a hidden crevice to insert its barbed feeding tube and siphon the host’s blood.

Tick prevention parasite disease blood CDC 5

If the thought of a host of tiny parasites gorging themselves on your blood doesn’t creep you out enough to take tick prevention seriously, here’s something that certainly will: ticks spread a variety of harmful diseases. These include anaplasmosis, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, tularemia, Colorado tick fever, tickborne relapsing fever, powassan disease, and tick paralysis — and that’s not even a complete list.

Tick prevention parasite disease blood CDC 3

A graph of tick activity based on life cycle stage. Nymphs and adults feed on humans; larva feed on smaller animals....

Ticks are most dangerous to humans in late spring and summer, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Lyme disease is the most common infection spread by ticks, and affects approximately 30,000 Americans each year.

Tick prevention parasite disease blood CDC 4

In order to avoid contracting a tick-borne illness, it’s best to avoid ticks altogether. Here are some tips provided by the CDC for tick prevention:

  • Treat your clothing, boots, socks, and tents with 0.5% permethrin solution for long-term protection.
  • Treat exposed skin with DEET for several hours of protection.
  • Avoid thick wooded areas and tall brush, especially during warmer months.
  • Stick to the center of trails to prevent contact with vegetation.

Tick prevention parasite disease blood CDC 2

  • Bathe or shower immediately after returning from outdoor excursions.
  • Check your entire body for ticks daily. Common areas include under the arms, in and around the ears, inside the belly button, behind the knees, between the legs, around the waist, and the hair/scalp.
  • Check all clothing, shoes, packs, gear, and pets for ticks. Tumble dry clothes on high heat for at least 10 minutes to kill any stowaways.

If a tick is found on your person, and has already bitten you, follow our guide on safe tick removal. Preventative measures should also be taken around your home to prevent ticks on your property or in your yard. Here’s a helpful CDC map that shows how to structure your property with a 3-yard migration barrier between wooded areas and heavily-traveled areas:

Tick prevention parasite disease blood CDC 7

For an even more in-depth guide to tick prevention and avoidance, download this PDF of the Tick Management Handbook. It was written by the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station with funding provided by the CDC, and includes virtually everything you’ll ever want to know about ticks. Also, check out this visual guide about Tickborne Diseases of the United States.

MCQBushcraft: Essential Knots for Survival Shelters

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If you’ve been following our site or magazine for a while now, you’ve probably heard us discuss the importance of cordage in survival situations. Paracord or other strong and lightweight cordage is especially useful for creating survival shelters. You just need a tarp or rain fly, a few lengths of cord, and some sturdy trees or other objects to serve as anchor points.

MCQbushcraft paracord knot shelter tarp cordage 1

With a large tarp, some paracord, and a little knowledge, you can have a survival shelter up in no time.

Well… actually, there’s one more element you need: knot-tying knowledge. Without this, you won’t be able to apply tension to your ridgeline or secure your anchor hitches, and you’ll probably end up with a droopy shelter that blows away with the first gust of wind.

MCQbushcraft paracord knot shelter tarp cordage 2

The key to learning knots is clear instruction and frequent practice, so the following video from MCQBushcraft is a great resource. In this 17-minute video, host Michael McQuilton demonstrates eight essential knots, as well as some variations and additional tips. Whether you’re a knot-tying expert or just starting to learn, you’ll be able to learn something from his video.

Here’s a recap of some of the essential knots in this video, along with their uses:

  • Overhand knot – Forming basic loops of cord, often used with a bead for lanyards
  • Clove hitch (two ways) – Tying a cord to a post or tree for short-term use (quick release)

MCQbushcraft paracord knot shelter tarp cordage 4

  • Reef or square knot – Connecting two strands of cordage
  • Half hitch – Tying a cord to a post for secure long-term use. Can be doubled for extra security, modified for quick-release, or strengthened with a toggle.
  • “Ratchet knot” – Improvised toggle-based knot for anchoring a ridgeline
  • Quick release knot – Another way to anchor and tension a ridgeline, with or without a toggle

MCQbushcraft paracord knot shelter tarp cordage 7

  • Prusik knot or friction hitch – Tying a small cord to a larger ridgeline at a 90-degree angle
  • Tensioning hitch – Applying tension to take slack out of a ridgeline or tarp tie-out
  • Extra Tip: “Hanking” a bundle of spare paracord for easy storage and fast deployment

For more knot-tying tips, check out our previous articles on the bowline knot and six paracord bad practices to avoid.

Southern Grind Minuteman Folding Knife

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Collaboration is a beautiful thing, especially when it’s for a good cause. Minuteman Watches has teamed up with Zac Brown’s Southern Grind knife company to produce a new special-edition folding blade. The goal behind this collaborative project was to create a limited-edition version of the popular Southern Grind Spider Monkey folding knife, and to use its sales to raise funds for former Navy SEAL Brandon Webb’s Red Circle Foundation.

Southern Grind Minuteman monkey folding knife 1

A portion of the profits will go to the RCF charity, in addition to the portion of profits from all Southern Grind knives that goes to the Camp Southern Ground non-profit project. In each year since its founding in 2013, 25 percent of the profits from Minuteman Watch Company’s net annual sales has gone to charities assisting veterans and their families.

Southern Grind Minuteman monkey folding knife 3

The Southern Grind Minuteman knife is based on the Spider Monkey design, and comes with a 3.25-inch drop point blade. The flat-ground blade is constructed from premium S35VN steel hardened to RC 58-59. The blade and other metal parts are coated in a satin black PVD finish, which contrasts with the tan G10 handle scales. At the core of the knife is a 6AL4V titanium lock and liner.

Southern Grind Minuteman monkey folding knife 7

A Minuteman brand logo is etched on the blade, while the Southern Grind insignia is engraved on the black pocket clip. Each of the Southern Grind Minuteman knives comes with a paracord fob, and weighs 3.2 ounces.

Southern Grind Minuteman monkey folding knife 5

Orders for the limited-edition Southern Grind Minuteman knife will only be accepted through May 31st, 2017. MSRP for this knife is $230, the same price as a standard version Spider Monkey with black blade and fittings. Only one batch will be produced, so if you’re interested in picking one up, check the full product listing on MinutemanWatches.com.

Dehydrated Food Taste Tests – Dehydrated Delights

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It’s often said that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Botched surgical procedures aside, there’s truth to this adage. In a SHTF scenario, few things can lift the spirits and restore energy faster than a perfectly seasoned hot meal. A hearty serving of good grub can have you back in action and ready to tackle the many challenges of staying alive in a hostile environment.

The catch-22 associated with our inherent desire for hot, flavorful, and nutritious food is that it becomes harder to obtain when times are tough. You can’t scavenge for cheeseburgers, and tacos don’t grow on trees (if only). This is why preparation is key. Stockpiling food in your pantry, vehicle, and bug-out bag can keep you running on all cylinders when the rest of society is stalled in panic mode. Unfortunately, emergency food storage has its own dilemmas — weight, bulk, and limited shelf life.

Dehydrated or freeze-dried food avoids many of these flaws by removing a single component: water. Due to its heavy weight, incompressibility, and tendency to promote growth of food-spoiling microbes, water content in food is detrimental to long-term storage. By subtracting this moisture, dehydrated food becomes significantly lighter and more compact, making it ideal for use in a camping pack or bug-out bag. It also offers a tremendous extension of shelf life; freeze-dried food can last 30 years or more in cool and dry conditions.

Fortunately for us, freeze-dried food isn’t just for astronauts these days. There are a variety of commercially available dehydrated survival food choices, ranging from grab-and-go snack pouches to huge buckets for long-term disaster prep. Flavors are equally varied, with a smorgasbord for every palate. We selected six of the leading dehydrated food producers on the market, and requested two entree flavors from each. After adding boiling water to rehydrate the meals, we dug in. Read on to hear the culinary impressions of our three-man taste-testing team (which consists of the head editor of RECOIL OFFGRID, Patrick Vuong; our network manager, John Schwartze; and this author, web editor Patrick McCarthy).

Dehydration vs. Freeze-Drying

The terms “dehydrated” and “freeze-dried” are often used interchangeably, leading to some confusion about their true meanings.

Dehydration is a blanket term for any process that removes some (but not necessarily all) moisture. All of the food in this guide is dehydrated; items like beef jerky and raisins also fall under this category. Food can be dehydrated by subjecting it to heat and air circulation under controlled humidity, but these processes only remove a fraction of the food’s moisture content.

Freeze-dried food is a subset of dehydrated food. However, its production is more complex, so it’s typically only produced on a commercial scale. In order to be freeze-dried, food must be flash-frozen, then placed in a vacuum chamber at about -50 degrees F. This combination of low pressure and temperature causes moisture to sublimate from ice directly into water vapor, escaping from the food. Freeze-drying removes virtually all water content, resulting in an extremely long shelf life. It also maintains microscopic pores throughout the food, reducing the chewiness and shriveling effects sometimes created by heated dehydration.

Whether dehydrated or freeze-dried, these survival meals can be reconstituted through the addition of hot water.

Sweet Snacks

Got a sweet tooth? In addition to the items reviewed here, we also collected six dehydrated sweet snack items to complement our survival meals — one item from each company in this guide. To read our thoughts on these dehydrated sweet snacks, go to www.offgridweb.com/survival/dehydrated-food.

Dehydrated Food

  • AlpineAire Cheese Enchilada Ranchero

    Make & Model - AlpineAire Cheese Enchilada Ranchero
    Package Size - 6.25 ounces
    Servings Per Package - 2
    Calories Per Serving - 380
    Approximate Shelf Life - 5 years
    Prep Method / Prep Time - Add boiling water to package / 10-12 minutes
    MSRP / Cost Per Ounce - $6.25 / $1
    URL - http://www.alpineaire.com

    Corn tortilla chips, white rice, and shredded cheddar and Romano cheeses in a mild red sauce.

  • AlpineAire Kung Pao Chicken

    Make & Model - AlpineAire Kung Pao Chicken
    Package Size - 5.25 ounces
    Servings Per Package - 2
    Calories Per Serving - 270
    Approximate Shelf Life - 5 years
    Prep Method / Prep Time - Add boiling water to package / 10-12 minutes
    MSRP / Cost Per Ounce - $6.75 / $1.29
    URL - http://www.alpineaire.com

    Noodles with diced chicken, roasted peanuts, peas, tomato flakes, garlic, green onion, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil.

  • Backpacker’s Pantry Cincinnati Style Chili

    Make & Model - Backpacker's Pantry Cincinnati Style Chili
    Package Size - 7.6 ounces
    Servings Per Package - 2
    Calories Per Serving - 370
    Approximate Shelf Life - 7 years
    Prep Method / Prep Time - Add boiling water to package / 15-20 minutes
    MSRP / Cost Per Ounce - $9.50 / $1.25 per ounce
    URL - http://www.backpackerspantry.com

    Make no mistake, this isn't traditional chili.

  • Backpacker’s Pantry Three Cheese Mac & Cheese

    Make & Model - Backpacker's Pantry Three Cheese Mac & Cheese
    Package Size - 7.1 ounces
    Servings Per Package - 2 Calories Per Serving - 430
    Approximate Shelf Life - 7 years
    Prep Method / Prep Time - Add boiling water to package / 15-20 minutes
    MSRP / Cost Per Ounce - $9.50 / $1.34 per ounce
    URL - http://www.backpackerspantry.com

    Elbow macaroni noodles with cheddar, Parmesan, and Romano cheeses, whole milk, and a butter sauce. Also includes onion and bacon flavoring.

  • Emergency Essentials Cheesy Lasagna

    Make & Model - Emergency Essentials Cheesy Lasagna
    Package Size - 41 ounces
    Servings Per Package - 17
    Calories Per Serving - 260
    Approximate Shelf Life - 25 years
    Prep Method / Prep Time - Add to boiling water, then cover and simmer / 7-9 minutes
    MSRP / Cost Per Ounce - $35 / $0.85 per ounce
    URL - http://www.beprepared.com

    This large sealed can contains freeze-dried spiral noodles mixed with tomato powder, creamer, and Parmesan cheese.

  • Emergency Essentials Teriyaki Noodles with Freeze-Dried Beef

    Make & Model - Emergency Essentials Teriyaki Noodles with Freeze-Dried Beef
    Package Size - 38 ounces
    Servings Per Package - 12
    Calories Per Serving - 350
    Approximate Shelf Life - 25 years
    Prep Method / Prep Time - Add to boiling water in separate container / 7-10 minutes
    MSRP / Cost Per Ounce - $40.75 / $1.07 per ounce
    URL - http://www.beprepared.com

    Large sealed can of freeze-dried egg noodle pieces with teriyaki sauce powder, beef, red bell pepper, pineapple, and mushrooms.

  • Good To-Go Classic Marinara with Penne

    Make & Model - Good To-Go Classic Marinara with Penne
    Package Size - 3.5 ounces
    Servings Per Package - 1
    Calories Per Serving - 430
    Approximate Shelf Life - 2 years
    Prep Method / Prep Time - Add boiling water to package / 20 minutes
    MSRP / Cost Per Ounce - $6.75 / $1.93 per ounce
    URL - http://www.goodto-go.com

    This vegan and gluten-free pasta consists of brown rice penne noodles, tomatoes, onion, olive oil, garlic, and spices.

  • Good To-Go Thai Curry

    Make & Model - Good To-Go Thai Curry
    Package Size - 3.4 ounces
    Servings Per Package - 1
    Calories Per Serving - 380
    Approximate Shelf Life - 2 years
    Prep Method / Prep Time - Add boiling water to package / 20 minutes
    MSRP / Cost Per Ounce - $6.75 / $1.99 per ounce
    URL - http://www.goodto-go.com

    Thai curry with jasmine rice, green beans, onion, broccoli, cauliflower, and peas.

  • Mountain House Chicken & Dumplings

    Make & Model - Mountain House Chicken & Dumplings
    Package Size - 4.66 ounces
    Servings Per Package - 2
    Calories Per Serving - 310
    Approximate Shelf Life - 30 years
    Prep Method / Prep Time - Add boiling water to package / 8-9 minutes
    MSRP / Cost Per Ounce - $7.99 / $1.71 per ounce
    URL - http://www.mountainhouse.com

    Mountain House's take on a classic Southern recipe.

  • Mountain House Chili Mac with Beef (Pro Pak)

    Make & Model - Mountain House Chili Mac with Beef (Pro Pak)
    Package Size - 4.06 ounces
    Servings Per Package - 2
    Calories Per Serving - 230
    Approximate Shelf Life - 25 years
    Prep Method / Prep Time - Add boiling water to package / 8-9 minutes
    MSRP / Cost Per Ounce - $7.99 / $1.97 per ounce
    URL - http://www.mountainhouse.com

    This Pro-Pak is half a serving smaller than the standard Mountain House Chili Mac, but has been fully vacuum-sealed to occupy less space.

  • Wise Company Simple Kitchen Broccoli Rotini

    Make & Model - Wise Company Simple Kitchen Broccoli Rotini
    Package Size - 11.43 ounces
    Servings Per Package - 4 Calories Per Serving - 320
    Approximate Shelf Life - 1 year
    Prep Method / Prep Time - Add water and bring to boil, then cover and simmer / 15-20 minutes
    MSRP / Cost Per Ounce - $35.99 (6-pack) / $0.52 per ounce
    URL - http://www.wisefoodstorage.com

    The Simple Kitchen line by Wise Company is designed as an all-in-one meal for use in short-term emergency scenarios.

  • Wise Company Teriyaki Rice

    Make & Model - Wise Company Teriyaki Rice
    Package Size - 10.6 ounces
    Servings Per Package - 4
    Calories Per Serving - 270
    Approximate Shelf Life - 25 years
    Prep Method / Prep Time - Add to pot of boiling water, remove from heat and cover / 12-15 minutes
    MSRP / Cost Per Ounce - $10.50 / $0.99 per ounce
    URL - http://www.wisefoodstorage.com

    Wise Company takes a different approach to survival food, offering large comprehensive packs for home storage rather than individual backpacking meals.

More From Issue 19

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Read articles from the next issue of Recoil Offgrid: Issue 20

Read articles from the previous issue of Recoil Offgrid: Issue 18

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

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

3 Easy Handgun Dry Fire Drills from Springfield Armory

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If you already follow our friends at RECOIL magazine and RECOILweb.com, you’re probably already familiar with the concept of dry fire drills. Either way, it’s important to know that dry firing can be a beneficial technique for shooters of all skill levels.

Springfield Armory dry fire drills gun holster sights 1

Manipulating a firearm is heavily dependent on practice and muscle memory, and dry fire drills can help you overcome some technical hurdles without spending lots of time and money firing live rounds at a range. This way, if you ever need to use your gun in a self-defense scenario, the motion of drawing, aiming, and firing will become smoother and faster.

Springfield Armory dry fire drills gun holster sights 2

Springfield Armory has created a series of videos to demonstrate various dry fire drills in a step-by-step process. The series is called Dry Fire Friday, and features teaching from prominent instructors including Jason Burton and Rob Leatham. Check out the videos below, and consider trying these techniques at home — but first, be absolutely certain your handgun is cleared and unloaded. Dummy rounds or snap caps may be used if you choose. Be smart, and practice safely.

The first drill emphasizes smoothly pulling the trigger without moving the gun. Placing an empty brass casing on the slide is a classic way to visualize movement.

The second drill involves drawing from concealment, for those who carry concealed. If that’s not applicable to you, Springfield Armory offers many other dry fire drills in their playlist. If you do carry concealed, drawing smoothly is obviously something you should learn inside and out.

Finally, it’s also wise to practice reloading from concealment. The following drill simulates reloading an empty gun from the slide lock position, and firing the first dummy round of the new magazine.

Obviously, this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to dry fire drills and technique, but it’s a good start. Springfield’s hashtag is appropriate — take these tips into consideration and get clickin’.

Big-Battery Flashlights – Highlights

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Time passes and electronic devices are shrinking. This seems to be the natural progression. Gone are the days of brick-sized cellphones, 20-pound laptops, and TVs that are thicker than they are wide. Despite the smaller sizes, today’s gadgets have more capabilities than ever before. The same holds true for flashlights — with modern battery technology and high-output LEDs, you can get an astonishing amount of power from a tiny light.

However, small flashlights have some substantial downsides. They’re easy to drop or misplace, they have limited battery life, and they’re often fragile. Also, in a self-defense scenario, these miniature lights have limited use in fending off an attacker. Conversely, large flashlights excel in all these areas, making them a top choice for law enforcement, military, and security professionals.

Traditionally, large flashlights used three or more C- or D-cell alkaline batteries. Some lights are still available in that configuration today, but there’s also a growing variety of models with rechargeable lithium-ion and nickel-metal-hydride (NiMH) cells. Whatever the power source, these big-battery flashlights offer long run time, potent light output, and sturdy construction — a combination you can rely on whether you’re at home, at work, or in a survival setting.

We took a look at six big-battery flashlights from leading manufacturers, so read on to see which one fits your needs.

Big-Battery Flashlights

  • Coast HP17

    Make & Model - Coast HP17
    Max Lumen Output - 970
    Max Runtime - 200 hrs.
    Overall Length - 13.1 in.
    Weight with Batteries - 2 lbs.
    Battery Type - D (three, included)
    Controls - Push-button switch with constant-on and momentary modes
    Output Modes - High, medium, low
    Special Features - Slide focus with twist-lock, anti-roll tail cap, lifetime warranty
    MSRP - $110
    URL - http://www.coastportland.com

    Coast's Long Range Focusing System allows adjustment of the beam pattern from flood to spot by sliding the light's head forward or backward.

  • Fenix RC40 2016 Edition

    Make & Model - Fenix RC40 2016 Edition
    Max Lumen Output - 6,000
    Max Runtime - 125 hrs.
    Overall Length - 10.7 in.
    Weight with Batteries - 2.7 lbs.
    Battery Type - 7.4V 7800mAh lithium-ion (one, included)
    Controls - Dual push-button switches with 0.5-second delay. Left controls strobe/SOS, right controls power and output level. Hold both buttons to toggle lockout.
    Output Modes - Turbo, high, medium, low, eco, strobe, SOS
    Special Features - Rechargeable via wall outlet or cigarette lighter adapter, USB output port, 4-LED power gauge, IPX8 waterproof to 2 meters, shoulder strap, spare O-ring and dust covers
    MSRP - $221
    URL - http://www.fenixlight.com

    This light is a monster, with extra-large dimensions and staggering light output.

  • LED Lenser P17.2

    Make & Model - LED Lenser P17.2
    Max Lumen Output - 450
    Max Runtime - 300 hrs.
    Overall Length - 12.1 in.
    Weight with Batteries - 1.7 lbs.
    Battery Type - D (three, included)
    Controls - Push-button switch with constant-on and momentary modes
    Output Modes - High, low
    Special Features - Slide focus, belt holster, IPX4 water-resistant
    MSRP - $110
    URL - http://www.ledlenserusa.com

    With its patented Advanced Focus System that combines a reflector and a sliding lens, the P17.2 produces a beam pattern that's crystal-clear and smooth.

  • Maglite ML300LX 3-Cell

    Make & Model - Maglite ML300LX 3-Cell
    Max Lumen Output - 625
    Max Runtime - 117 hrs.
    Overall Length - 11.7 in.
    Weight with Batteries - 1.6 lbs.
    Battery Type - D (three, not included)
    Controls - Low-profile push-button switch with constant-on and momentary modes
    Output Modes - High, low, eco, strobe; four selectable activity-based function sets
    Special Features - Twist focus, three available matte finishes (black, urban gray, foliage green), IPX4 water-resistant
    MSRP - $76
    URL - http://www.maglite.com

    Maglite is one of the pioneers of this category; the company produced its first D-cell flashlight in 1979. The ML300LX still resembles that original design, but with a modern LED and digital internals.

  • Pelican 8060 LED

    Make & Model - Pelican 8060 LED
    Max Lumen Output - 803
    Max Runtime - 69 hrs.
    Overall Length - 12.6 in.
    Weight with Batteries - 1.5 lbs. Battery Type - 4.8V 4000mAh NiMH (one, included) or C alkaline (four, not included)
    Controls - Push-button switch with constant-on and momentary modes
    Output Modes - High, medium, low, strobe, flashing; four selectable mode sets
    Special Features - Rechargeable via cradle and wall outlet, optional 12V cigarette lighter adapter and hardwire kit available; polymer body with aluminum head, low-battery indicator LED, IPX4 water-resistant
    MSRP - $241
    URL - http://www.pelican.com

    This light features a tough Xenoy polymer body attached to an aluminum head; the combination of materials keeps weight at a minimum.

  • Streamlight UltraStinger LED

    Make & Model - Streamlight UltraStinger LED
    Max Lumen Output - 1,100
    Max Runtime - 16 hrs.
    Overall Length - 11.8 in.
    Weight with Batteries - 1.3 lbs.
    Battery Type - 6V 2200mAh NiMH (one, included)
    Controls - Push-button switch with constant-on and momentary modes
    Output Modes - High, medium, low, strobe; three selectable mode sets
    Special Features - Rechargeable via two included cradles and wall outlet or cigarette lighter adapter, optional 2.5-hour 120V fast-charger available; IPX4 water-resistant, 3-meter impact resistant
    MSRP - $261
    URL - http://www.streamlight.com

    As the saying goes, ounces equal pounds and pounds equal pain; this is an attractive choice for those who are looking to reduce the load of a daily carry pack or duty belt.

More From Issue 19

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Read articles from the next issue of Recoil Offgrid: Issue 20

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

New: SureFire Aviator Dual-Color Flashlight

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Preserving your night vision is essential to performing mission-critical tasks in low-light settings. This is why it’s so annoying to be blinded by an oncoming car’s high beams, or accidentally get flashed by the beam of a friend’s flashlight on a nighttime hike. Suddenly your coordination is reduced to nil and you’re stumbling around seeing stars — not exactly optimal when you need to move quickly and precisely.

SureFire Aviator flashlight LED light 4

Many flashlights offer low or “moonlight” brightness modes for close-proximity nighttime use, such as map-reading or taking inventory of gear in a backpack. Some even adjust light output intelligently based on surroundings. However, white light tends to be more detrimental to night vision than other colors. This is why SureFire developed the new Aviator compact flashlight with dual-color output — a 250-lumen white light, combined with either red, blue, amber, or yellow-green alternate mode.

SureFire Aviator flashlight LED light 2

During normal use, the new SureFire Aviator acts like an ordinary light. Press or click the tail cap to produce 5 lumens of white light in low mode, and immediately repeat for 250-lumen high mode. A Total Internal Reflection (TIR) lens creates a soft and even beam pattern. To change to the alternate color, twist the self-locking selector ring, and use the controls normally. No filter or cap necessary.

SureFire Aviator flashlight LED light 1

If you’re wondering which color is most useful for your needs, SureFire explains the color choices accordingly:

  • Amber – 20 lumen high / 5 lumen low – Improves contrast and does not degrade scotopic or night adapted vision.
  • Blue – 4 lumen high / 0.4 lumen low – More clearly defines shapes in the outdoors and helps identify blood and hydraulic fluid.
  • Red – 39 lumens high – Improves contrast and aids in reading red-light-readable topographic maps.
  • Yellow-Green – 39 lumens high / 0.3 lumens low – Complementary to the color spectrum used in most cockpits.

SureFire Aviator flashlight LED light 3

The Aviator is housed in an anodized aluminum body with stainless pocket clip and weatherproof O-ring seals. It runs on one included CR123A battery, measures 4.18 inches long by 1.06 inches diameter, and weighs 3.1 ounces. The SureFire Aviator is available at an MSRP of $299. For more information, visit SureFire.com.